Step-by-Step Process of Getting Dental Crowns

Fixing a damaged tooth can be a worrying experience, but dental crowns can quickly bring back your smile and your confidence. Dental crowns, often called caps, are used to cover and protect teeth that are weak, broken, or decayed. They not only look like natural teeth but also restore your tooth's function and appearance. Understanding the process of getting a dental crown can help ease any concerns and make you feel more prepared for your dental visits.

The journey to a new crown usually starts with a thorough examination by your dentist. We assess the condition of your tooth and decide if a crown is the best option for you. If so, the process moves on to preparing your tooth and creating a temporary crown to cover and protect it while your permanent crown is being made. Once the permanent crown is ready, it is carefully placed and adjusted to ensure a perfect fit. Throughout this article, we'll guide you through each stage, helping you understand what to expect and how to prepare for each step of getting a dental crown.

Initial Consultation and Assessment for Dental Crowns

Before we can place a dental crown, we start with an initial consultation and assessment. During this visit, we examine your tooth to determine the extent of the damage and decide if a crown is the best option. If your tooth is cracked, heavily decayed, or weakened from a large filling, a crown may be necessary to restore its strength and appearance.

We use various tools and techniques, such as X-rays, to get a detailed view of your tooth structure. This helps us identify any underlying issues that need to be addressed before placing the crown. We also discuss your dental history and any symptoms you've been experiencing, such as pain or sensitivity. This information allows us to create a tailored treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

Preparing Your Tooth for a Dental Crown

Once we decide to move forward with a dental crown, the next step is to prepare your tooth. This process starts with numbing the area around your tooth to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the procedure. We then remove any decay and shape the tooth so the crown can fit securely on top.

In some cases, if a large portion of the tooth is missing, we may need to build up the tooth with a filling material. This provides a stable base for the crown. After reshaping your tooth, we take an impression using a dental mold or a digital scanner. This impression captures the unique shape and size of your tooth, which is essential for crafting a custom crown that fits perfectly. These steps prepare your tooth for receiving a temporary crown while we wait for your permanent crown to be created.

Creating and Fitting the Temporary Crown

After preparing your tooth for a dental crown, we create a temporary crown to protect it until the permanent one is ready. The temporary crown is crafted from an impression of your tooth, ensuring it fits well and covers the prepared area. This temporary solution is essential to keep the tooth safe from sensitivity and damage while you wait for your permanent crown.

To fit the temporary crown, we use a temporary adhesive that holds it in place securely but allows easy removal later. It’s important to be gentle with your temporary crown by avoiding hard or sticky foods and maintaining excellent oral hygiene. This helps prevent the crown from dislodging and keeps your tooth protected during this interim period. If your temporary crown comes loose, contact us immediately so we can reattach it and continue safeguarding your tooth.

Placing the Permanent Dental Crown: What to Expect

Once your permanent dental crown is ready, we will schedule an appointment to place it. First, we remove the temporary crown and clean the area thoroughly. Then we check the fit and color of the permanent crown, making sure it matches your other teeth perfectly. This step is crucial for ensuring a natural appearance and comfortable bite.

After confirming the fit, we cement the permanent crown onto your tooth using a strong adhesive. You might feel some pressure during this process, but it should not be painful. Once the crown is in place, we polish it and make final adjustments if necessary. With proper care, your new dental crown can last for many years, restoring both function and aesthetics to your smile.

Conclusion

Getting a dental crown is a multi-step process that ensures the best outcome for your oral health and appearance. From the initial consultation to the final placement of the permanent crown, each stage is designed to protect and restore your tooth effectively. If you follow our care instructions and maintain regular dental visits, your crown can serve you well for a long time.

At Lakewood Dental Studio, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care. If you are looking for a high-quality dental crown in Dallas or have questions about the process, don't hesitate to reach out. Schedule an appointment with us today and let our experienced team help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.