If you've been told that you need dental crowns in Candler, NC, you might wonder what exactly happens during dental crown placement. It's a common curiosity, and understanding the steps involved can help alleviate your apprehension.
Rest assured, the process is a well-practiced routine in dentistry. Your experienced dentist will guide you through each step, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey.
The Dental Crown Placement Process Explained
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made caps or covers that fit over damaged or weakened teeth, restoring their shape, strength, and appearance.
They serve multiple purposes, including:
- Protecting teeth with extensive decay or large fillings
- Restoring fractured or worn-down teeth
- Improving the cosmetic appearance of teeth with stains or irregularities
- Anchoring dental bridges to replace missing teeth
Crowns can be crafted from various materials based on location, aesthetics, and patient preferences.
How Are Dental Crowns Placed?
- Consultation and Examination
The dental crown placement process typically begins with a consultation with your dentist, who will examine your tooth and discuss the reasons for needing a crown. X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of damage or decay.
- Tooth Preparation
Before placing the crown, your tooth will need to be prepared. This involves removing any decayed or damaged areas and reshaping the tooth to create a stable foundation for the crown. Your tooth will be numbed to ensure your comfort during this step.
- Impression Taking
After tooth preparation, an impression of the prepared tooth will be taken. This impression creates a custom-made crown that fits your tooth perfectly. You may receive a temporary crown to protect your tooth while the permanent one is being crafted.
- Crown Fabrication
The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians craft your custom crown. This process typically takes a couple of weeks. Depending on your dentist's recommendation, the crown can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.
- Temporary Crown Placement
While waiting for your permanent crown, a temporary one will be placed on your prepared tooth. This temporary crown helps protect your tooth and maintain its appearance until the final restoration is ready.
- Final Placement
Once your custom crown is ready, you'll return to your dentist for the final placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is carefully fitted and bonded to your tooth. Your dentist will ensure it fits properly and matches your natural teeth in color and shape.
- Bite Adjustment and Final Touches
Your dentist will check your bite to ensure it's balanced and comfortable. They will make minor adjustments to ensure the crown functions seamlessly with your other teeth if necessary. Any final refinements are made to ensure your new crown looks and feels natural.
Do You Need Dental Crowns in Candler, NC?
If you need a dental crown or have questions about the dental crown placement process, don't hesitate to reach out to our experts at Cataloochee Dental Group. We're here to provide exceptional dental care and address any concerns you may have. Schedule a consultation with us today and experience the difference in your smile.