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A dental crown is a standard and common procedure that can protect your tooth and lengthen its lifespan for years and will restore your smile to its natural and healthy luster.
The dental crown procedure typically happens over the course of two appointments. While you may experience some sensitivity, your dentist will likely give you an anesthetic, just like they would with a filling.
At your first appointment, your dentist will examine the tooth and prepare it for a crown. They’ll also take X-rays of the tooth and surrounding bone and shorten the tooth to provide space for it. In some cases, you might need a root canal if there is a risk of infection, tooth decay, or injury to the tooth’s nerves or blood vessels (also known as pulp).
Once the tooth prepared and ready, your dentist will make an impression of the tooth that’s receiving the crown using paste. They will also take an impression of the teeth above the crown, so the crown can correctly fit with your bite. At this point, the impression is sent to a lab to create the crown, which takes about two to three weeks. Your dentist will give you a temporary crown to wear to protect your teeth between your first and second visit.
At your second appointment, your dentist will remove your temporary crown, check the color, shape, and fit of your new crown, and permanently cement it in place.
Once your crown is placed and feels comfortable in your mouth, the best care method is to maintain great oral care and treat your crown the way you would treat any tooth—after all, the tooth beneath the crown still needs protection from gum disease and decay. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth daily with floss or another interdental device, making sure to reach the area between your crown and surrounding teeth. Crowns, however, are still susceptible to cracking and wear and tear. Avoid biting hard surfaces to prevent cracking, especially with porcelain crowns.
Bradshaw Ford is here to help. Reach out today to inquire about our services or schedule an appointment.