Although we want our teeth to be healthy and without any problems, most people at some point in their lifetime experience a dental problem. Whether it be a tooth that got knocked out or a simple cavity, they seek the professional expertise of a dentist to provide assistance. Many times dentists can fix teeth and mouth problems relatively easy, but other times extra protection is needed for a specific tooth or area of the mouth in order to prevent further problems. This is why dentists often recommend crowns to their patients, and here’s what you can expect if you need to get a crown.
Instructions
1. Since crowns go over a tooth in order to protect it, the first step in getting one generally involves the dentist preparing the tooth for the crown. This often requires the tooth to be shaved down a little on the sides or tops in order for the crown to fit over the tooth without feeling bulky or being out of alignment with the other teeth. In some cases if the crown is being put in place due to serious cavities or a root canal, the dentist will need to get rid of the decayed parts of the tooth and provide a filling in order to prevent further damage and decay from occurring.
2. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist will take a bite impression of your mouth. A putty-like substance will be injected into your mouth in the area where you will be getting the crown. This impression will help the lab make the crown specific to your teeth’s shape, size and alignment.
3. After a bite has been taken, the dentist will get a temporary crown to put over the tooth in order to protect it until your permanent crown arrives and can be put on. Since the crown is only temporary, it may feel slightly awkward in your mouth at first. However, the dentist will make sure it fits appropriately and doesn’t interfere when you talk, chew food or simply bite down.
4. The lab will take about 2to 3 weeks to make your permanent crown. Once your dentist has received it, he or she will contact you to set up an appointment. Generally the second appointment is very brief since the entire process of removing the temporary and replacing it with the permanent can be done in 5 minutes. The dentist will pry off your temporary crown using a few tools, but this won’t hurt and doesn’t require anesthesia.
5. As soon as the temporary crown is off, he or she will place the permanent one in your mouth and discuss with you how it feels. If you both are satisfied with the crown, they will cement it in place. They will then floss around the crown to ensure it fits right and now excess cement is stuck between your teeth.
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