January 6, 2020
Same-day crowns are one of restorative dental services that we’re proud to offer! But do you know what this procedure involves, or if it’s right for you? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of porcelain crowns:
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is simply a cap that is placed over a damaged tooth or implant post to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth. Unlike dental veneers, crowns fully encase the full visible portion of the affected tooth or teeth.
When Is a Crown Needed?
Because dental crowns are designed to functionally replace and restore damaged teeth, they are most commonly used in order to restore a broken or worn-down tooth or to protect a weakened or cracked tooth. Crowns are also commonly used to support teeth with unusually large fillings, in which not much natural tooth remains.
Other reasons a dental crown may be needed include:
- Covering a post or dental implant
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering severely misshapen or discolored teeth
- Protecting teeth that are badly damaged by decay or at high risk for tooth decay
What Does the Procedure Look Like?
Once it’s established that a dental crown is a good fit for you, it’s time to make an appointment for the procedure. Thanks to modern technology, our office can provide porcelain dental crowns in just one visit!
The first step of getting a crown on your tooth is to use local anesthetic like Novocaine to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. Then, impressions will be taken of the tooth in order to fabricate a perfectly shaped, natural-looking crown.
Once the tooth has been sufficiently numbed, the next step is to prepare the tooth. This involves removing a small amount of tooth and filling material in order to shape the tooth for a secure-fitting crown. If decay is discovered underneath prior fillings, it is removed during this step.
Once the tooth is shaped, another impression is taken to shape the inside of the crown for a secure and precise fit. The same-day crown is then created while you wait, and is cemented permanently over the shaped tooth!
Do you think dental crowns may be a good fit for you? Make an appointment with Cottonwood Dental Group for a consultation! Visit our website to learn more.
