 |
|
Crowns: Restoring & Protecting Your Smile
What Is a Crown?
A crown (also called a cap) is a man-made cover that protects the top of a tooth. It may be used to restore and preserve a decayed, broken, or cracked tooth. Crowns can also correct some cosmetic tooth problems, giving you a better smile.
A tooth that is chipped or cracked can be restored with a crown.
|
|
A tooth that is broken can be corrected with a crown.
|
Why You May Need a Crown
Your dentist may advise you to get a crown if you have:
- A decayed or damaged tooth that needs to be restored to its normal shape and size
- A cracked or broken tooth with large cavities or worn fillings
- A poor-fitting crown
- A tooth that has a large opening on its top surface after root canal surgery
- A cosmetic tooth problem
- A bite problem
The Procedure
Restoring your tooth with a crown may take 2 or 3 dental visits. Expect to wait 2 to 3 weeks between appointments.
Follow the instruction that your dentist gives you.
Preparing Your Tooth
Before preparing your tooth for a crown, your dentist may first numb the tooth with a local anesthetic. Then,
the tooth is reduced and shaped. Any decay is removed. Your tooth may also need rebuilding if larger parts are
missing. A mold is taken of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth. A temporary crown is applied to
protect the prepared tooth between visits.
The tooth is prepared.
|
|
The crown is positioned.
|
|
The crown is in place.
|
Between Visits
The mold of your teeth is sent to the lab to make your permanent crown. Meanwhile, take good care of your
temporary crown. Follow the tips below:
- Avoid eating hard or sticky foods.
- Brush gently at the gumline around the temporary crown.
- Carefully floss between your teeth. To remove the floss, pull it out from the side of the tooth - not the top.
Fitting Your Crown
Your dentist removes the temporary crown and places the permanent crown on your tooth. He or she fits the crown
and makes sure your bite feels normal. Once you both agree the crown fits right, it is cemented in place. Your
dentist also makes sure that the shape of your tooth has been restored.
Call Your Dentist If Your Veneers:
- Your teeth become sensitive to hot or cold foods or liquids, or when you bite
- Your mouth feels painful, or you have a toothache
- Your temporary or permanent crown becomes loose
|
|
Types of Crowns
A crown is made of gold, other metals, or porcelain. It can also be made of resin, or porcelain and metal. When
choosing a crown, think about how it will look an how long it will last. Talk with your dentist about the type
of crown that may be best for you.
Metal Crown
This crown is made of gold or other metals. It is very strong and won't break. Because this type isn't
tooth-coloured, it may not be the best choice for a front tooth.
|
|
|
Tooth-coloured Crown
A tooth-coloured crown is made of porcelain or reinforced resin. It comes in a range of shades to blend
with your other teeth. This type of crown may be more likely to chip than a metal crown.
|
|
Combination Crown
Porcelain is fused on top of metal, making this crown appear tooth-coloured. The metal at its base makes
the crown stronger than a porcelain or resin crown. But it is not as strong as a metal crown.
|
|
Living With Your New Crown
Your new crown will help you chew easily. You may also feel more confident about your smile. Be sure to brush
and floss well. Your crown will last longer. And don't forget to see your dentist as instructed.
|
|
|
|
| © Copyright 2008 - Madison Dental |
|
