After a filling, the dental crown is perhaps the most commonly used method to restore a damaged or decayed tooth.
Whilst fillings are ideal for limited damage, when it comes to a badly broken tooth, fillings simply don’t offer the strength that is needed to restore the tooth for any length of time.
As we have no wish to extract a tooth unless it is causing significant problems, we then have to look at the other options available; the most likely of which is the dental crown.
Dental crowns
Usually made from ceramic or porcelain, although on occasions it may be made from gold, dental crowns are an excellent way to preserve a badly damaged tooth.
Prior to the crown being produced, our dentist will examine the tooth, possibly taking x-rays to ensure that there is no underlying damage. If all looks well and the structure of the tooth is sufficient for a crown to be added, we will then proceed to prepare the tooth by shaping it so that a crown can be securely attached.
Impressions will then taken of the prepared tooth and sent to a dental laboratory for the crown to be made. During this period of approximately one week, you will be fitted with a temporary crown to protect the tooth.
Following this, you will be recalled to our dental practice for the crown to be fitted.
This is a relatively simple process which involves the removal of the temporary crown and then the permanent one will then be attached to the prepared tooth using a strong dental cement.
Care of your crown
A porcelain dental crown should last for many years, but, like other teeth, it does need care taken of it.
It is important to remember that although the crown is artificial and can’t decay, the underlying tooth can. Gum disease too is a potential outcome if cleaning is neglected in the area of the crown.
Although uncommon, dental crowns can also become detached. This is more likely to happen towards the end of its life as the cement becomes less secure. It can, however, become detached through accidentally biting an unexpected hard object.
When a crown does become detached, do not attempt to re-attach it yourself, especially using household glues which can damage the tooth. Instead, keep the crown safe and call the practice as soon as you can and we will professionally re-attach it for you.
If you have a badly broken tooth that may need a dental crown, please call our dental practice today on 01327 342412 for Weedon and 01933 312992 for Rushden.
