Dental crowns are needed when teeth have compromised tooth structure due to breaks, chips or large cavities. Crowns are natural-looking tooth shaped “caps” that are placed over teeth to restore their shape, size, strength and to improve their appearance.

An effective way to fill in spaces in your smile, crowns paired with bridges can also help keep your surrounding teeth from drifting.

What can I expect when receiving a dental crown?

If your District Dental dentist recommends a crown, it is important to know that 1-2 mm of your existing tooth’s surface will have to be removed in order to make room for the new crown. This resurfacing is followed by a laser treatment to push your gum line down around the base of the tooth so that a proper impression or mold of the affected tooth can be made. These impressions will be sent to a manufacturer to design your new crown – custom fitted to match your existing tooth. Because the process to make your permanent crown will take some time, your dentist will fit your existing tooth with a temporary crown.

During a follow-up visit your dentist will remove the temporary crown and then properly fit the new permanent crown. If your new crown needs additional polishing or adjustment, your dentist will correct the issue at this time. Once the fit is finalized, the crown will be permanently cemented to your tooth.

The final fit of your crown will allow the tooth to function like a natural tooth.

Do I need a bridge as well as a dental crown?

When a single crown is not enough, a bridge may be necessary, especially if you need to replace several teeth. If one tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth may shift or change position causing opportunity for damage or decay. By installing a bridge you are taking steps to preserve your oral health.

A bridge consists of two crowns, to anchor it, and then artificial teeth to fill in the gaps between the crowns. The tooth structure alongside the bridge will have to be reshaped or removed in order to make space for the anchor crowns. Similar to a singular crown, an impression of your full bridge will have to be sent to an outside manufacturer in order to create a permanent, well-fitting bridge.

Are there any risks associated with receiving a crown or a dental bridge?

The most significant risk associated with receiving a crown or a dental bridge is what can happen when patients wait to seek dental care and do not receive treatment quickly. Patients who delay their treatment are heightening their risk for additional tooth decay or for the need for a tooth extraction. When more than one tooth is missing and a bridge is not installed, your gums and jaw may suffer. Your other healthy teeth may shift and become misplaced – affecting your speech, jaws and gums. When appropriate, receiving a dental bridge or crown are important ways to maintain overall good dental health.

Call District Dental today to learn if dental crowns are right for you.