Dental Crowns

1. Initial Assessment and Diagnosis:

• The process begins with an initial assessment during a dental examination.
• The dentist assesses the condition of the tooth in need of a crown and determines whether a crown is the appropriate treatment.

2. Treatment Planning:

• If a dental crown is deemed necessary, the dentist develops a treatment plan. This plan outlines the type of crown to be used, materials, and the treatment process.

3. Tooth Preparation:

• To accommodate the dental crown, the dentist may need to prepare the tooth. This involves removing a portion of the tooth’s outer layer, including any decayed or damaged areas.
• In some cases, if the tooth is severely damaged, a root canal treatment may be required before crown placement.

4. Impressions:

• After tooth preparation, the dentist takes precise impressions of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. These impressions are used to create a custom-fitted crown that matches the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth.

5. Temporary Crown (If Necessary):

• While the permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary crown may be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it and maintain aesthetics and function.

6. Crown Fabrication:

• Skilled technicians at a dental laboratory craft the permanent crown based on the impressions and specifications provided by the dentist.
• Various materials can be used for crowns, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. The choice depends on factors like aesthetics, strength, and location in the mouth.

7. Fitting and Adjustments:

• Once the permanent crown is ready, you return to the dentist’s office for fitting.
• The dentist ensures that the crown fits correctly, functions well, and feels comfortable. Adjustments are made as needed to achieve a proper bite and alignment.

8. Crown Placement:

• After fitting and adjustments, the permanent crown is bonded to the prepared tooth using dental cement. This secures the crown in place.

9. Final Polishing:

• The dentist performs a final polishing of the crown to ensure a smooth finish and optimal aesthetics.

10. Aftercare Guidance:

• Your dentist provides instructions on caring for your new dental crown, including proper oral hygiene practices and dietary recommendations.

11. Follow-Up Appointments:

• You may need to schedule follow-up appointments for the dentist to assess the crown’s stability and your overall oral health.

Dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. Proper care and maintenance, including regular dental check-ups, can help ensure the longevity of your dental crown.