If your tooth has sustained damage, including breakage or advanced decay, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. This restorative solution uses a ceramic cap that fits over the vulnerable tooth, shielding it from further harm while rebuilding its structure.
Though this treatment is highly beneficial and commonly employed, some patients may feel nervous about a dental procedure if they do not know what will occur. To alleviate dental fear, Dr. Brian Sang, a dentist serving patients in Florence, SC, describes what you can expect from restorative treatment with dental crowns.
Dental Crowns: Our Process
Oral Health Evaluation
Your dentist will first want to evaluate the affected tooth and your surrounding teeth and gums before proceeding with restorative treatment using a dental crown. If you have other dental health concerns, your dentist may address those problems before issuing a crown for the tooth. For instance, they may need to drill away decay or perform root canal therapy before covering the tooth with the cap.
Tooth Surface Preparation
When you and your dentist determine you require a dental crown, the dental professional will first need to prepare the surface of the tooth in question. This entails scraping away a minute amount of enamel to make room for the ceramic cap over the tooth. You will receive a local anesthetic to ensure that you remain comfortable during this part of the procedure.
Dental Impression
Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will take an impression of your smile which will be utilized to create a personalized dental crown. This will be done using a physical mold.
The dentist will place a tray with molding clay in your mouth that you will bite down on. The mold captures the shape of the tooth and hardens, allowing a dentist to use the measurements to construct a custom-made crown. You will receive a temporary crown over the tooth while this is built in the dental lab.
Permanent Crown Placement
You will return to the dentist’s office once the crown is ready to have it placed over the vulnerable tooth permanently. The dentist places the cap over the tooth and seals it into place with dental cement.
They complete the process with a final polish to ensure it looks both beautiful and natural in your smile. The dentist will also check your bite to see that it does not interfere with your oral function. With careful maintenance, your crown can provide restorative benefits for fifteen or more years.
Dental Crown Procedures Available in Florence, SC
Palmetto Smiles offers dental crowns and other restorative treatments to patients in Florence, SC. Dr. Sang also specializes in cosmetic and general dentistry, including periodontal care, for patients of all ages. Whether you seek a routine teeth cleaning or assistance with a dental emergency, our team of dental experts can help you. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact our office by phone at 843.203.5155 or reach a member of our staff online.