WHAT IS A DENTAL CROWN?dental crown

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is fitted over a tooth in effort to restore it to its natural shape, size, and strength. Crowns also help restore the tooth’s functionality and appearance. When cemented into place, dental crowns fully cover the visible portion of a tooth that lies above the gumline.

WHY IS A DENTAL CROWN NECESSARY?

There are various scenarios in which a dental crown may be deemed a necessary treatment including the following:

  • To protect a weak tooth and keep it from breaking, or to hold together parts of an already broken tooth
  • To restore a broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely damaged or worn down
  • To cover and provide support for a tooth with a large filling, particularly when there isn’t much of the tooth left
  • To cover a dental implant
  • To cover a misshapen or severely discolored tooth
  • To hold a dental bridge in place
  • For cosmetic reasons

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN PREPARING A TOOTH FOR A CROWN?

Prepping a tooth for a crown generally involves two office visits. First your dentist or oral surgeon will examine and prepare the tooth, and at the follow up visit, the crown will actually be placed. X-rays may be taken to check the tooth’s roots and surrounding bone. If the tooth has extensive decay or if there is any risk of infection of the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be deemed necessary prior to dental crown placement.

Before the crown is placed, the area will be numbed with a local anesthetic, and the tooth to be crowned will be reshaped along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown to sit comfortably. In some cases, bonding material may be used to build up the tooth enough to support the crown.

An impression of the tooth will be made and used to create the crown. A temporary crown will also be placed to protect and cover the tooth while the permanent crown is being made. When the permanent crown is ready, color and fit will be verified, and the crown will be placed permanently, protecting the compromised tooth.

DENTAL CROWNS CHATTANOOGA AT OCOEE ORAL SURGERY

If you have a tooth you think may require a crown, our team can help assess and steer you in the right direction treatment wise. Crowns can help fortify teeth, while also restoring their functionality and enhancing smiles too. Let our oral surgeons restore your broken or problematic tooth with a dental crown today! Contact us to schedule an appointment.