Whether you’ve been dealing with a persistent toothache or in need of aesthetic work for a beautiful smile, you may need to invest in dental work, such as dental crowns. Your dentist can place this crown over a tooth that needs protection and cover the tooth’s entire surface, restructuring and improving its appearance. Here are some quick answers to critical questions you may have about dental crowns.
What Does a Dental Crown Do?
Dental crowns protect teeth weakened by decay from further damage and restore broken teeth by holding fragments together. When a tooth has a large filling – after a root canal, for instance – a dental crown can support its structure. Crowns can also cover misshapen, discolored, or otherwise cosmetically-damaged teeth and hold dental bridges or implants in place.
How Is a Tooth Prepared for a Crown?
At the first visit, your dentist will take x-rays and assess tooth damage. The dentist may need to perform a root canal if he or she spots excessive damage. After numbing your mouth, the dentist will file down the tooth to make room for the crown. The dentist will then use a putty to make a tooth impression, which is sent to a lab where the crown is made.
Some dentists (including Dr. Alex Pastel) offer same-day dental crowns, but most will apply temporary crowns for the two to three week waiting period. In the interim, avoid sticky or hard foods that may dislodge or break the temporary crown. The dentist will apply the crown at the next visit after first ensuring proper fit and color.
At Pastel Dental, we care about your smile. If you’ve broken a tooth, you need to contact an emergency dentist immediately. Dr. Alex Pastel and his team will get you taken care of, quickly and efficiently. Give us a call today at (415) 831-1999 to schedule an appointment, or book online with our convenient scheduling tool.
