The Dental Crown Procedure

At Creekside Dental, a dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, providing strength, durability, and aesthetic improvement. It is designed to restore the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance while providing protection and support. Dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution for restoring and enhancing teeth. They provide functional and aesthetic benefits, allowing individuals to regain confidence in their smile and enjoy improved oral health. 

The Benefits of Dental Crowns 

• Protecting a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment 
• Restoring a broken or severely decayed tooth 
• Covering a tooth with a large filling when little natural tooth structure remains 
• Strengthening a tooth that is weakened or at risk of fracture 
• Improving the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth 
• Anchoring a dental bridge or supporting a dental implant 

The Procedure for Dental Crowns 

The first step is a consultation with a dentist. They will evaluate your oral health, discuss your concerns, and determine if a dental crown is an appropriate treatment for your specific needs. In most cases, the tooth receiving the crown needs to be prepared. The dentist numbs the area with a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience. They then carefully remove a portion of the outer tooth structure, reducing its size to accommodate the crown. The amount of tooth structure removed depends on the specific case and the type of crown being placed. After the tooth is prepared, the dentist takes impressions of the tooth and the surrounding teeth. These impressions serve as a model for the dental laboratory to create a custom-fitted crown. The dentist may also take digital scans of the tooth using intraoral scanning technology.

While the permanent crown is fabricated in the dental laboratory, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it and provide functionality. The impressions or digital scans are sent to the dental laboratory, where skilled technicians create the custom crown based on the dentist's specifications. The fabrication process can take a few weeks.: Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist for the final placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown's fit, color, and shape are assessed. The dentist makes any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit and bite. Once the crown's fit is confirmed, the dentist permanently cements it onto the prepared tooth using dental cement. After cementing the crown, the dentist checks the bite to ensure it is balanced and comfortable. They may make additional adjustments if needed. Finally, the crown is polished to match the sheen of the surrounding teeth. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, ensures the crown's longevity. To learn more about dental crowns, visit Creekside Dental at 743 East 700 North, Spanish Fork, UT 84660, or call (385) 448-1500.