Will I Need To Get A Dental Crown?

If you have a weakened tooth, your dentist may suggest a dental crown. This restorative dental procedure is beneficial in more ways than one. But how do you know if you need a dental crown? Learn more about when dental crowns are necessary with help from Dr. Jonathan Lovell and Dr. Matthew Scheerhorn at Superstition Mountain Dental in Gold Canyon, AZ.

What is a dental crown? 
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped dental restoration which fits onto a tooth. Crowns restore the shape or size of a tooth. They also protect a compromised or weakened tooth. When cemented into place on top of the tooth, the dental crown lies on top of the gum line. Since it is visible, the dental laboratory which creates the crown takes special care to color-match it to your natural teeth, ensuring it fits into your smile flawlessly.

When is a dental crown necessary? 
Dental crowns have many uses and can fall under both cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Uses for dental crowns include:

• protecting a tooth with a large filling
• stabilizing a tooth after root canal therapy
• covering a dental implant to replace a missing tooth
• restoring the biting surface of a worn tooth
• improving the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
• strengthening a weakened tooth

Your dentist can help you determine if your tooth requires a dental crown.

Dental Crowns in Gold Canyon 
The procedure for a dental crown begins with your dentist numbing the area of the tooth with local anesthesia. With the mouth numbed, your dentist must prepare the tooth to receive the crown. This involves removing small amounts of enamel from the sides and top of the tooth. This gives the tooth the same shape as the inside of the crown, ensuring a secure bond. A mold of the mouth sent to a dental laboratory gives the laboratory technicians a basis on which to design your crown. This process takes several weeks. In the meantime, a temporary crown protects your prepared tooth until your next appointment. When the crown returns to your dentist’s office, your dentist removes the temporary crown and cements the final restoration into place.

For more information on dental crowns or when they are necessary, please contact Dr. Lovell and Dr. Scheerhorn at Superstition Mountain Dental in Gold Canyon, AZ. Call (480) 671-7777 to schedule an appointment today!