Broken Tooth
Asheboro, NC
 If your tooth has lost its shape, size, or function, or is broken, our team may recommend a crown be placed over the existing tooth. A crown, also known as a cap, helps to improve the shape of your tooth, increases its strength and durability, and returns its functionality. They fully encase the visible portion of your tooth and are cemented into place, right above the gumline. Our team at Randolph Center for Dental Excellence may recommend you for a crown if we feel the tooth needs support and structure added to it.
When Is a Dental Crown Needed?
Dental crowns are advised for people who have weak, unstable, or broken teeth. There are multiple situations in which a crown is undeniably a helpful and necessary dental procedure. If you have a tooth that is suffering from severe decay or cavity that cannot be fixed by drilling it out and adding a filling, a crown is suggested. This is meant to prevent the tooth from breaking and to protect it from bacteria that can eventually require a complete tooth extraction. Teeth that are cracking, broken, or completely worn down require a cap to return their functionality and prevent any further damage to the teeth. It is also used during a dental bridge to hold it in place and as a covering for dental implants. Occasionally, crowns are used during a cosmetic procedure, rather than standard veneers, if the teeth are severely discolored, too small, or deformed.
What Are the Different Types of Crowns Available?
There are six crowns commonly used in dental procedures. Our job is to help narrow down your selection, using variables such as pricing and appearance, to find a crown that is best for your specific case. These types of crowns include stainless steel, metals, all-ceramic, all-porcelain, all-resin, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. Each has its pros and cons associated with it, which must all be used as a variable when figuring out which is ideal for your specific case.
What is the Procedure for Getting a Crown?
A crown is usually a two-step process, requiring at least two dental visits to complete the treatment. This is important to know beforehand, so you can plan your time accordingly and can go to your scheduled appointments as needed to finish the treatment. The wait time between each dentist visit is typically one to two weeks and will be discussed by our staff before beginning the procedure.
We begin your procedure by first making a mold of your tooth to provide the exact dimensions and shape closest to your original. We may need to digitally scan the tooth if you have severe damage to the tooth, where a molded impression may deteriorate the tooth even further. Your tooth is then shaved down on the top and sides so the crown can comfortably fit over it. If you suffered severe decay or damage, additional support may be built on the core of the tooth to support the crown.
A temporary crown is placed on top of the tooth while a permanent crown is made. You will have to be cautious while you have a temporary crown, as it is not considered a stable structure. We recommend you avoid chewing gum or eating anything sticky that can loosen the crown or even make it completely fall out. You will also experience extreme sensitivity to both hot and cold, so you will need to be careful that most food and beverages you consume are close to room temperature to avoid any painful sensations. Once your permanent crown is sculpted, you will come in for your second dental appointment, where it is fitted into your mouth. When both you and our staff are content with how it feels and looks in your mouth, it is cemented into place to secure it.
After getting your crown, the functionality of your teeth will be back to normal. It is important to practice good oral hygiene practices since the tooth underneath can still get cavities and your crowns are still able to break like your natural teeth. Our team will advise you on the best methods of aftercare.
If you think a crown may be necessary, Randolph Center for Dental Excellence is composed of experienced staff members who can help guide you through the process. Contact us today at (336) 444-2772 to schedule an appointment for your crown procedure.
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