A dental crown is a common restorative solution that helps protect and strengthen damaged teeth. By understanding what happens during the treatment process, you can approach it with confidence. The following comprehensive guide explains each stage involved, from the initial evaluation to long-term care.
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It fully encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. General dentists often recommend crowns in the following situations:
Modern dental crowns are crafted from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or combinations of these. The choice depends on factors such as durability, available onsite materials, patient preference, and the location of the tooth.
The process begins with a comprehensive dental examination. During this visit, the general dentist evaluates the affected tooth and surrounding structures using visual inspection and diagnostic imaging such as X-rays. This step determines whether a dental crown is the most appropriate treatment compared to more conservative methods such as fillings, inlays, and onlays.
If the tooth shows signs of severe decay, cracks, or structural weakness, the dentist may recommend a crown to prevent further damage. In severe cases of decay and infection, the dentist may need to perform additional procedures, such as root canal therapy, before placing the crown.
Once the dental team establishes a personalized treatment plan, the dentist prepares the tooth to receive the crown. During this step in the process, the dental team will reshape the tooth by removing a portion of the outer structure. The goal is to create adequate space for the crown while preserving as much healthy tooth material as possible. That said, if the tooth has damage or decay, the dentist may use filling material to rebuild the core before shaping the tooth.
After preparation, the dental team will take detailed impressions of the damaged tooth and surrounding teeth. These impressions may be captured using advanced digital scanning technology. The resulting model serves as the blueprint for creating the custom crown.
At this part of the restoration process, the dentist also selects the appropriate shade to match the natural color of adjacent teeth. This step is particularly important for crowns on visible teeth. Color-matching to the surrounding teeth helps patients achieve a seamless, natural appearance.
At Artisan Dental Bellevue, we create dental crowns onsite, allowing us to place the crown during a single office visit. We offer this service through computer-aided design and manufacturing technology. These same-day crowns are designed, milled, and placed without the patient leaving the dental chair. By offering same-day dental crowns, we remove the need for temporary crowns and the need for multiple appointments.
Before placing the crown, the dentist will then check the fit, shape, and color of the crown to ensure accuracy and comfort. They will take time to make adjustments as needed to achieve proper bite alignment. After confirming that the crown fits and is comfortable, the dentist will permanently cement the crown in place.
After getting a crown, patients will need to take proper care of it to extend its lifespan. These habits will include regular brushing and flossing to help prevent decay at the crown margins. Additionally, keeping up with routine dental checkups allows our dental team to detect the early signs of issues, such as a loose crown or signs of cracks and fractures. Avoiding habits such as chewing ice or hard objects can also reduce the risk of damage. With the right care, crowns can last several years. providing reliable oral function and contributing to the appearance of the patient's smile.
Understanding each step involved in receiving a dental crown can help clarify what to expect throughout the process. With a well-placed and cared-for dental crown, you can enjoy improved oral health and a confident smile for years to come. Call our Bellevue office today to learn more about dental crown placement or to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://artisandentalbellevue.com or call Artisan Dental Bellevue at (425) 454-2005 for an appointment in our Bellevue office.
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