If you’ve never had a dental crown before, you may wonder what the process is like. How do dentists get these little wonders of dental porcelain on your teeth? If you’re about to receive your first crown, it’s good to know what to expect to relieve any anxiety you may be feeling about the treatment.
To learn how your dentist will prepare your tooth to receive a dental crown, continue reading. The process is straightforward with no surprises.
What Is a Dental Crown?
Crowns are actually rather ancient technology that can be traced back thousands of years. Essentially, it’s a cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its look and function. While ancient people used to use animal bone or precious metals, today’s crowns are almost always made of dental-grade porcelain.
How Are Dental Crowns Prepared?
Dental crowns follow a multi-step process that ensures a comfortable fit and a natural look. Here’s a breakdown step-by-step:
Step 1: Dental Exam
The first step to getting your new dental crown is scheduling an appointment with your dentist. They will give your mouth a thorough examination to see if your tooth is eligible for the treatment. Sometimes a tooth can be saved with fillings or may have too much structural damage to place a crown effectively.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
Next, your affected tooth must be prepared to receive a crown. Your dentist will use their instruments to carefully remove all the damaged tooth matter and shape it into a “post.” This is the strongest part of the tooth that can be fitted with a crown for stability.
Step 3: Impressions
Once your tooth is prepared, your dentist will make an impression of your mouth. Trays are filled with a special molding substance that you bite down on for a few seconds. Once complete, these impressions will be shipped off to a dental lab for processing.
Step 4: Temporary Crown
After the impressions are taken, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth. This will protect your tooth while your customized crown is being manufactured.
Step 5: Fabrication
The impressions are used by dental technicians at a partnered dental laboratory to create your new prosthetic. This is a complex process that involves specialized machines that compact, heat, and carve porcelain until the sturdy dental crown is made. They’ll then use pigments to colorize it to match your existing teeth.
Step 6: Fitting
Once your crown is back from the lab, your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to fit it. First, the temporary crown is removed, and the tooth is cleaned of any debris or adhesive. Then, a permanent bonding agent is applied, and the porcelain crown is fit into place and adjusted.
With the crown in place, your smile will be complete and natural-looking again. Dental crowns not only look like your natural teeth but also restore their function. If you have a tooth that’s damaged, make an appointment with your dentist. A dental crown may be the answer!
About the Author
Dr. Kevin Dann is a talented dentist on a mission to show you that dentistry doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Toronto and has since then completed multiple additional courses including dental anesthesia. Your experience at the dentist will be relaxed and pain-free. To schedule an appointment at Dentistry Asleep, Dr. Kevin Dann, call (647) 559-3176 or visit the website to explore other services.
