What you need to know about porcelain dental crowns
When a tooth is broken, damaged, or badly decayed, it’s important to schedule a dentist appointment and have it examined. If the damage is far enough away from the root, the tooth can be saved, often with a porcelain dental crown. Many patients are tempted to put off necessary dental appointments because of timing, convenience, or cost. However, as Dr. Richard Weigand tells his Spokane, Washington, patients, the problem is not likely to be easier or less costly to fix as more time passes.
Understanding the need for dental crowns
Dental crowns are used with a tooth that is too badly decayed for a standard filling. Crowns are also used after a root canal, when the tooth is chipped or broken, or for cosmetic reasons. Dental crowns are sturdy and durable and provide necessary protection for the tooth. Those crowns that are made of porcelain can also be custom-made to match the surrounding teeth, which provides a nice appearance as well.
The dental crown procedure
The process of having a crown placed requires several dental appointments. However, with the use of local anesthesia, these appointments are quick and painless.
Your first visit includes preparing the tooth to receive the crown. If the tooth is decayed, this will require filing to the tooth to make room for the crown to be placed. If a tooth is fractured, broken, or had a root canal treatment, it will need to be rebuilt using dental material. Once the tooth is ready, the dentist will take measurements and use wax for a dental impression. Finally, a temporary crown is placed, which protects the tooth until the new tooth is ready.
Schedule an Appointment
The measurements are sent to a laboratory where the crown is created from a piece of porcelain to the dentist’s exact specifications for size, shape, and color. Once the crown is ready, the patient returns to the office to have it placed. Prior to permanent placement, the dentist will check the fit and appearance. Once it’s placed, it cannot be removed.
Caring for a dental crown
Once the crown is in place, it will function and look just like your natural tooth. While you may want to avoid hard foods or very hot or cold beverages for a few days, in time, you’ll be able to eat and drink all your favorite items. Further, caring for a dental crown is just like caring for your natural teeth. Simply brush and floss to keep it strong and healthy.
Dr. Weigand and his entire team at Richard D. Weigand, DDS is committed to providing their patients with gentle, friendly, and expert care. Call (509) 485-8620 today to learn more about our dental crowns or to schedule an appointment.
