Discover all you need to know about dental crown preparation and the procedure involved, including candidacy and benefits of dental crowns.
Dental Crown Preparation
Before undergoing a dental crown procedure, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your tooth to determine if a dental crown is the best treatment option. If a dental crown is deemed necessary, the preparation process typically involves the following steps:
- Tooth Shaping: The dentist will carefully reshape the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the dental crown. This is done to ensure proper fit and alignment.
- Impressions: After reshaping the tooth, impressions are taken to create a custom dental crown that fits perfectly over the prepared tooth.
- Temporary Crown: A temporary crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory.
The Dental Crown Procedure
Once the dental crown is ready, the procedure involves:
- Fitting: The temporary crown is removed and the permanent dental crown is carefully fitted and adjusted to ensure a proper bite and alignment.
- Bonding: Once the fitting is perfect, the dental crown is bonded to the tooth using dental cement.
- Polishing: The dentist will polish the dental crown to ensure a natural appearance and comfortable fit.
Candidacy for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are recommended for individuals with the following conditions:
- Tooth Decay: If a tooth has suffered extensive decay that cannot be restored with a filling, a dental crown may be the best solution.
- Tooth Fractures: Teeth that are fractured or weakened due to injury or decay can benefit from dental crowns to restore strength and function.
- Root Canal Treatment: Following a root canal procedure, a dental crown is often placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its functionality.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer various benefits, including:
- Restoration: Dental crowns restore the shape, size, and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth, improving overall oral health.
- Protection: They provide added protection to weak or cracked teeth, preventing further damage and potential tooth loss.
- Longevity: Well-maintained dental crowns can last for many years, providing long-term solutions for dental issues.