A dental crown is used to encapsulate those teeth that are beyond repair using traditional filling. It provides protection and reinforce structural support. However, it is important to understand that the “crowned” tooth will not remain functional forever. It is still possible that decay may remerge and compromise its structural integrity.
Making a dental crown, in most cases, usually takes three separate visits to the dentist. The dentist will examine the tooth on the first appointment. This is to determine whether it can support a crown. This visit normally entails taking x-rays. If there is any form of extensive decay or risk of infection to the tooth, the dentists will have to treat it first before commencing with dental crown.
During the second appointment, this is when the tooth and the gum tissue is anesthetized before the crown making process begins. The tooth is then filed down mostly along the chewing surface so that the crown can fit.
Afterwards, the dentist will take an impression of it and the surrounding. The impression is sent to a dental lab so that the permanent crown can be created. Your “prepared” tooth will be fitted with a temporary crown for protection before a permanent one is fixed.
You will need to go for the third and final visit once the permanent crown has been designed. The temporary crown will be removed. The dentist will position the permanent crown in position with a special adhesive.
There are four common materials dentists use to make dental crowns. They include: all ceramic (porcelain-based), porcelain fused to metal, gold alloys and base metal alloys.