Dental Crown Process — A Step-By-Step Guide Procedure For You

Dental crowns are a great restorative option that can last for many years. They are made from different materials and used for different purposes.

This article is a cheat sheet on all topics related to dental crowns, including a step-by-step guide to the placement procedure. You will also find information about how long a crown might last and what to do if it causes you pain or discomfort.

 

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is an artificial covering that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth. When a tooth has been severely weakened, cracked, discoloured, or misshapen due to decay or injury, a crown can help to restore its function and appearance.

Crowns may also be used to anchor bridges, protect weak teeth from further damage, cap badly shaped teeth, and cover implants. They are made in the same way as traditional silver amalgam fillings but offer better protection for the underlying tooth structure. 

 

Types of Crowns

Crowns are usually made from one of the following materials: 

 

All-Ceramic

These crowns are made from an artificial material that looks like natural tooth enamel and is often used for front teeth. These types of porcelain crowns are toxic-free. That means it won’t cause any allergic reactions, as metal crowns sometimes do. 

 

Gold Alloy

Gold alloy crowns are made from a mix of gold, copper, and other metals. They are strong and durable but may discolour over time. 

 

Zirconia

Zirconia crowns are made from a ceramic material that is stain-resistant and looks like natural tooth enamel. They are popular for use in the front of the mouth. 

 

Porcelain fused to Metal (PFM)

PFM crowns consist of porcelain fused to metal, making them stronger than all-ceramic or zirconia crowns. However, they might not be very natural-looking when placed on the front teeth. 

 

All-metal

All-metal crowns are strong and durable, making them ideal for the back teeth. They offer excellent protection from biting and chewing forces but can be visible when placed on the front teeth. 

 

Acrylic resin

This material is often used for provisional crowns, which are a temporary solution used while waiting for the permanent crowns to be fabricated. It may also be used while awaiting a dental implant or bridge placement. This type of crown typically needs to be replaced every few months. 

 

The Dental Crown Process

The process of getting a crown usually requires around two dental visits to your dentist’s office. However, with digital technology, it can simply be done in just one visit. 

 

 

Here are the steps of getting the dental crown process: 

 

Multi-day Procedure

Step 1: Examination and Preparation – During your initial visit, the dentist will examine your mouth to determine if a dental crown is necessary. If it is, they will take impressions of your teeth with dental putty or other material. These impressions are used to create a model of your teeth to prepare for the crown fabrication process.

Step 2: Dental Crown Fabrication – The next step in the process involves fabricating the custom-made crown to fit over the prepared tooth. Depending on what material you choose, this can either be done in-house by your dentist or sent out to a dental laboratory that specialises in creating these restorations. Sometimes, your dentist may opt for a temporary crown until your permanent dental crown is fabricated.

Step 3: Fitting and Placement – Once the crown is fabricated, the dentist will try it on to make sure it fits correctly and looks natural. If there are any adjustments necessary, they can be made at this point. Once the final fitting has been completed, the dentist will use dental cement to secure the crown in place. 

 

One-day Procedure

With the same-day procedure, your dentist can skip the temporary crown step.

1. In a computed-aided process,  your dentist will take an impression of your mouth.
2. Using the digital scan from the photos, your dentist will create the crown right there in the office. You may have to wait about 1 to 2 hours until the crown is made.
3. Once the crown is ready, your dentist cements it into place. The entire process takes about 2 to 4 hours.

 

The Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown

Getting a dental crown can provide many benefits, including the following:

• Restoring function to teeth damaged by tooth decay or injury.
• Providing protection for weak and fractured teeth.
• Enhancing the appearance of discoloured or misshapen teeth.
• Helping to support bridges and dental implants.
• Increasing the longevity of existing fillings, particularly after a root canal.

In addition, getting a dental crown can give you peace of mind knowing that your smile is safe from further damage.

The crowns are designed to last for up to 15 years with proper care, so you’ll be able to enjoy your beautiful smile for years to come.

Moreover, most insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of getting a dental crown. 

 

Dental Crown Aftercare

Once the crown has been placed, there are some important steps to take in order to ensure its longevity. Here are a few tips:

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent decay.
• Avoid chewing hard foods on the crown.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
• Contact your dentist right away if you experience discomfort or pain when biting down on the crowned tooth.

Following these aftercare instructions can help preserve the life of your dental crown and maintain healthy oral hygiene overall. With proper care, it should last several years before needing to be replaced.

The dental crown process is a relatively straightforward procedure that will leave your tooth looking better and feeling stronger than before. With proper care and maintenance, it should last many years without needing replacement or repair.

If you would like to know more about the dental crown procedure, make sure to contact us on (02) 8007 6727 as soon as possible for assistance and get your consultation from our friendly dental team at No Gaps Dental. With their help and expertise, you can be sure that your smile will last a lifetime!

 

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.

 

 

 

 

References

Crowns
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/crowns/

Crowns
https://www.dentalhealth.org/crowns

Dental crown procedure
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-crown-procedure

Dental Crowns: Measured, Made and Placed During One Appointment
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/dental-crowns-measured-made-and-placed-during-one-appointment/