Dental Crowns
Supporting the Natural Tooth
A dental crown is a tooth appliance designed to match the look, feel, and function of the natural tooth, providing the support it needs. Crowns are typically the best option to save the natural tooth.
At Oak Hill Family Dental Center, we recommend crowns when large fillings have weakened a tooth, the tooth has fractures, after a root canal, and for discolorations or other cosmetic reasons.
Creating Custom Crowns
First Visit
At the first visit, after your examination has determined a crown is needed, an X-ray is taken to determine the supporting elements of the tooth and the way of the bone to ensure proper support for the crown.
Under local anesthesia, the natural tooth will be shaped to accommodate the custom crown. The structures on either side of the tooth will also be sculpted to mimic the size and shape of the new crown and strengthen the area.
Next, Dr. Nelson will take an impression to provide the lab with a working model to help fabricate the crown. Color matching is also done to ensure your crown looks completely natural.
Second Visit
The custom crown will be ready in about two weeks. Patients receive a temporary crown before they leave the office, allowing them to function normally during this time.
When the patient returns, the custom crown is installed, typically without any numbing. If adjustments to the bite are necessary, they will be done at this time.
Extremely durable, a crown may last 15-20 years or more, depending on how well the patient takes care of it. Maintaining proper dental hygiene is important to prevent decay of the remaining natural tooth.
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