At Skyview Dentistry, we prioritize your oral health and smile. We understand that dental procedures can be daunting, but rest assured, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. If you've been advised to get a dental crown, you might have some questions about the procedure and what to expect. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of what to anticipate during your dental crown procedure at our practice.
Why Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, often referred to as caps, are custom-made restorations designed to cover and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. They can serve several purposes, including:
- Restoring a damaged tooth: Dental crowns are used to strengthen teeth that have undergone extensive decay, fractures, or root canal treatments, restoring their strength and functionality.
- Enhancing aesthetics: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth, helping you achieve a more beautiful smile.
- Supporting dental bridges: Crowns are commonly used to anchor dental bridges, which replace missing teeth and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
- Covering dental implants: Crowns are the final step in dental implant procedures, providing a natural-looking tooth replacement for a missing tooth.
Now that you understand the reasons behind dental crown placement, let's delve into what you can expect during the procedure.
Consultation and Treatment Planning
The first step in your dental crown journey at Skyview Dentistry is a consultation with one of our experienced dentists. During this initial visit, we will thoroughly examine your oral health, take X-rays if necessary, and discuss your treatment options.
Our team will explain the different types of dental crowns available, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, helping you choose the best option for your specific needs and budget.
Tooth Preparation
Once you decide to proceed with a dental crown, we will schedule your next appointment for tooth preparation. This involves removing any damaged or decayed portions of the tooth to create a stable base for the crown. Local anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
After the tooth is prepared, impressions of the tooth and surrounding teeth will be taken. These impressions are used to create a custom crown that matches the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Don't worry; you won't leave our office with a gap in your smile. We will provide a temporary crown to protect the tooth while your permanent one is being fabricated, which typically takes a few weeks.
Temporary Crown
Your temporary crown will allow you to chew and speak normally, but it's essential to be cautious with certain foods and activities while it's in place. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky substances, as this can damage the temporary crown. Continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing gently around the crown, taking care not to dislodge it.
Crown Fabrication
Our dental laboratory will carefully craft your permanent crown based on the impressions taken during your tooth preparation appointment. We pay meticulous attention to detail to ensure a seamless fit and a natural appearance.
Crown Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready, we will schedule your final appointment for crown placement. During this visit, we will remove the temporary crown, clean the tooth, and check the fit of the new crown. If everything looks perfect, we will permanently cement the crown in place. Your dentist will also make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable and natural.
Post-Procedure Care
After your crown placement, it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to prolong the life of your restoration. Brush and floss regularly and attend your regular dental check-ups and cleanings. While crowns are durable, they are not indestructible, so be mindful of avoiding habits like chewing ice or biting down on hard objects.
Long-Term Benefits
Dental crowns are a long-lasting and effective solution for a variety of dental issues. With proper care, they can serve you well for many years, providing enhanced functionality and aesthetics to your smile.
At Skyview Dentistry, we understand that the idea of dental procedures can be intimidating. However, we are committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. With our experienced team, state-of-the-art technology, and personalized care, you can trust us to provide you with high-quality dental crowns that will restore your smile and oral health.
If you have any questions or concerns about the dental crown procedure or any other dental treatments, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to address your needs and provide you with the best possible dental care in Charlotte. Your smile is our mission, and we look forward to helping you achieve optimal oral health and confidence with your new dental crown.