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Normal Dental Crowns Missoula, MT A dental crown is also known as a cap and is used to help restore the functionality of a tooth. There are several reasons you may need a crowning procedure, with the most common being a root canal treatment. A crown can last for years, and the procedure is done to help strengthen your tooth, restore your smile, and make your tooth functional again. At Roth Family Dentistry, we are experienced and trained to perform a seamless crowning procedure that typically takes around two weeks and two dental visits to complete.Why Would I Need a Crown?If you have a root canal scheduled, you will almost always need a dental crown following the procedure. Root canals are only performed when tooth decay is severe, or your dental pulp has been damaged and infected. Since the procedure requires us to drill down to the bottom of your tooth, the overall integrity and structure of your tooth is compromised. A crown will be fitted over this area after the procedure to protect the tooth from any damage and prevent any bacteria from going into the tooth and causing an infection. However, there are other reasons for placing a crown besides a root canal. Large cavities will need something stronger than a filling since they require removing a large portion of the tooth. Teeth with cracks, worn down areas, or areas weakened by other oral diseases will require a crown to help protect and restore the tooth. Less common issues such as severely discolored or badly shaped teeth can also be eligible for a crown to help restore your smile. However, in these cases, your insurance may not cover the procedure since it is purely cosmetic. What Materials Are Crowns Made From?When you need a crown, you will have several options on the type of material. The most common material is porcelain since it is durable and can be matched in color to resemble your natural teeth. However, you may also choose from a crown made of ceramic, composite resin, metal alloy (gold, nickel, or silver alloy), porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal (a metal alloy with porcelain over it). We will work with you to help you determine which material will look the most natural and fit the best in your mouth. We use certain factors to help reach a decision, such as your personal preference, the location and functionality of the tooth, the position of the tooth in your mouth, and the amount of the tooth that shows when you smile. Each of these factors need to be weighed in our decision-making to ensure a long-lasting procedure. What Is the Procedure?When you have a crown placed, the procedure is not as invasive as other procedures. It is more time-consuming though since it requires several steps to be successful. First, our staff must take an impression of your tooth and surrounding teeth to obtain a mold for the crown. This mold is sent off to a lab so the crown can be made, which takes around two weeks. We then shave down your current tooth so the crown can be placed over it. While you wait for your permanent crown, we will place a temporary crown over your tooth. If you did not have a root canal, while there is a temporary crown in place, it is recommended you avoid beverages and foods that are very cold or hot since your tooth will probably be sensitive to temperature changes. You should also eat softer foods to prevent the temporary crown from falling out. After we receive the permanent crown, we will schedule you to come in so we can cement the permanent crown over your tooth. You can resume daily activities after the permanent crown is placed. Permanent crowns usually last between five to 15 years, depending on the material used and how well you take care of it. Our staff at Roth Family Dentistry will help give you instructions on how to best maintain your crown so it lasts as long as possible. If you need a crown placed, give us a call today at 406-728-2745. |
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