14 Aug Dental crowns: Purpose and Procedure
When a tooth fractures or breaks, dental crowns are an effective means of restoring the tooth and preserving its integrity. The crown, also referred to as a cap, completely covers the natural tooth and is permanently bonded into place.
Sometimes, a crown is used as a preventative measure. When a tooth has been restored with multiple fillings, or when a filling is particularly large, it can become weakened. Following a root canal procedure, the enamel becomes fragile and can easily fracture. In these circumstances, your dentist may proactively recommend a crown. By identifying teeth that may potentially fracture, you can avoid the discomfort and damage that comes with an unexpectedly broken tooth.
Dental crowns are extremely versatile. They can be designed to look exactly like a natural tooth in terms of shade, size, and anatomy. Often, the crown is created using gold, silver, and other metals for strength. The metal base is then glazed with porcelain and shaded to match the neighboring teeth, if necessary. Crowns can be fabricated with attachments for anchor partial dentures. A crown is also a final restoration for a dental implant. When a single tooth is missing, a crown is attached to the top of a titanium post to replace the natural tooth.
To prepare for a crown, your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. The tooth will be shaped and contoured on all sides. This creates space for the crown to completely fit over the tooth. The dimensions of the teeth and gums will be measured and recorded using dental impressions, and the information will be forwarded to the dental lab where your crown will be created.
According to your specific needs, your dentist will determine the materials, shading, and anatomical details for your new crown. Once complete, the crown will be cemented to your natural tooth, and you will be instructed to eat and drink normally.
For crowns in San Antonio, contact our dentistry team at 210-616-0858 to schedule an appointment to find out which crown is right for you.