What to Expect from a crown
The doctors have recommended a crown to either restore the function or appearance of your tooth, or increase the stability of a tooth which may be weakened by a large filling or crack. A crown, sometimes referred to as a "cap", is a lab made covering cemented over an existing tooth that has been specially prepared by your dentist.
The doctors have recommended a crown because:
- Your tooth is fractured
- Your tooth has a large filling which has weakened the tooth
- Your tooth has had root canal therapy
- To restore your tooth to its original shape
- To change the appearance of your smile
- To restore and maintain your bite
Keep in mind that a crown is a long-term restorative procedure. Although the cost may be more than a filling, a crown is designed to last many years longer than just a filling. A crown will last longer than any other type of dental restoration. Significant tooth structure, as well as cost and time, will be saved in the long run.
Types of Crowns
Metal crowns
Metal crowns have classically been used in dentistry for many years. Many metals can be mixed to make a crown, including gold, silver, palladium, etc. Metal crowns are usually used in non-aesthetic areas. Although some feel metal provides superior strength to other types of crown, new advances have made many aesthetic crowns just as strong.
Porcelain crowns
Porcelain crowns are used if they will show when you smile. Since they don't have metal underneath, they appear more natural. Their transparency is more similar to natural teeth, thus their improved appearance. Dr. Wragge prefers mostly to use these on front teeth. Their strength is sufficient in front teeth, but may not be able to withstand the extremely strong chewing forces of back teeth.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns
These crowns have a metal base covered with porcelain. The porcelain makes them more cosmetic, and the metal gives them strength. These crowns are used in front and back teeth. Their shade can be created to match your existing teeth.
The Crown Procedure
Crowns are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. The procedure of a crown will usually take two appointments. If there is an existing filling in your tooth, we will recommend replacing it before preparing for the crown. Replacing the filling will provide a strong base for the crown and ensure there is no decay or other problems that will be "hidden" under your new crown
The first appointment: Dr. Wragge will prepare the tooth. A minimal amount of tooth structure will be reduced around the tooth. This will create space for the crown to fit over the tooth. We will then take an impression of your tooth, which will be sent to the lab. The lab will make the crown. Our staff will make a temporary crown that you can wear for the next couple of weeks, while your permanent crown is being fabricated. Please plan about and hour and a half for the first appointment.
Your temporary is held in place with a cement designed to last a couple of weeks. This will make removing the temporary easy when placing the permanent crown. Eating anything too sticky or crunching could cause your temporary to come loose. If this happens, please contact our office immediately to have it re-cemented. This will prevent sensitivity, and prevent the tooth from shifting until the permanent crown can be placed. You should brush and floss normally around the crown to maintain tissue and tooth health, taking care not to "snap" the floss out, potentially loosening the crown.
The second appointment: much shorter(about 30 – 40 minutes). The doctor will try on your crown and make any necessary adjustments to the crown before cementing it on your tooth. Great care will be taken to seal the crown around the tooth. This insures the crown will not fail due to future decay. We will also ensure that the crown and your bite feel comfortable. If the crown is aesthetic, we will verify the appearance also. We want your input on the comfort and appearance of your new crown.
Finally, the crown will be cemented in place with a permanent cement. This cement will not let loose, and also provides a Flouride release, which will assure strength and longevity of the tooth underneath. Excellent oral hygiene, including brushing three times daily and flossing daily, will assure a long life for your crown.