Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can be a treatment option for heavily restored, broken or badly damaged teeth. In addition, dental crowns may be used to anchor a dental bridge or to restore a dental implant. The dental crown may be made with porcelain or may be porcelain fused to metal. Two appointments are usually needed to complete this procedure.
Do You Need a Crown?
A dental crown may be needed in the following situations:
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to repair a weak tooth
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to repair a worn down tooth
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to restore a broken tooth
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to hold a dental bridge in place
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to protect an endodontically treated tooth
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to cover a dental implant
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to cover discoloured teeth
The Dental Crown Procedure
Typically, the dental crown procedure is completed in two stages. During the first stage, the dentist will reduce portions of your natural tooth's structure to create space for the porcelain or metal and accommodate the dental crown. The surrounding or opposing teeth may also need to be prepared to ensure adequate space.
An impression is then taken and sent to the lab, where your dental crown is created. A temporary crown is then made and worn until the lab fabricated crown is returned. When you return to the dental office, the temporary crown is removed and your new, custom made dental crown is securely bonded into place.
Replacing Old Dental Crowns
There are many different reasons to replace older crowns. Some reasons include chipping of the porcelain, a worn appearance of metal crowns or ill fitting crown margins. Typically, patients may need to replace their dental crowns after approximately 10 to 15 years.
