CROWNS
As we get older, our teeth begin to change and are prone to cracking. This occurs because normal use of our teeth causes wear of the enamel and stress lines will form which eventually become cracks. If you had cavities in the past and had fillings placed, the tooth is weaker and will eventually begin to crack, and either a new larger filling or a crown will need to be placed to prevent a full fracture of your tooth. If you have had a root canal on a tooth, a crown is needed to rebuild and protect the tooth from fracture. If cared for correctly, crowns can last for decades. Decay (cavities) can form at the margin (gum line) of a crown if your oral hygiene is not sufficient. Regular brushing and flossing is still needed.
Types of Crowns
If we decide that you are in need of a full crown, there are a few different options for the repair of your tooth. These options include a full porcelain crown, a porcelain fused to metal or gold crown, or a full gold crown. We will make the determination as to which of these options is the most appropriate for your situation, allowing you to make an informed decision on which material you chose.
Procedure - Crowns usually take 2 visits
1. The tooth that needs a crown will be precisely reshaped (drilled), and the old filling and any decay will be removed and a new stronger filling (core) will be placed. An impression of the tooth will be taken and a temporary crown will be cemented. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing tooth. A color match will be taken and confirmed with you. This impression will be sent to our lab where your new crown will be crafted.
2. During your second visit to the office, we will try in your new crown and ensure that the fit is exact and the esthetics are correct. We will adjust the crown to be comfortable to your bite. The final step in the process is to cement the crown permanently. You may experience a slight sensitivity to cold for a short period of time.
Postop Instructions
Before you receive your permanent crown/bridge you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods while you have the temporary in. If your temporary comes off between appointments, please call our office so that we can reapply it for you.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the permanent crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of your natural tooth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentist know. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. You should brush and floss regularly.
Types of Crowns
If we decide that you are in need of a full crown, there are a few different options for the repair of your tooth. These options include a full porcelain crown, a porcelain fused to metal or gold crown, or a full gold crown. We will make the determination as to which of these options is the most appropriate for your situation, allowing you to make an informed decision on which material you chose.
Procedure - Crowns usually take 2 visits
1. The tooth that needs a crown will be precisely reshaped (drilled), and the old filling and any decay will be removed and a new stronger filling (core) will be placed. An impression of the tooth will be taken and a temporary crown will be cemented. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing tooth. A color match will be taken and confirmed with you. This impression will be sent to our lab where your new crown will be crafted.
2. During your second visit to the office, we will try in your new crown and ensure that the fit is exact and the esthetics are correct. We will adjust the crown to be comfortable to your bite. The final step in the process is to cement the crown permanently. You may experience a slight sensitivity to cold for a short period of time.
Postop Instructions
Before you receive your permanent crown/bridge you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods while you have the temporary in. If your temporary comes off between appointments, please call our office so that we can reapply it for you.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the permanent crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of your natural tooth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentist know. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. You should brush and floss regularly.