Dental crowns play a vital role in modern dentistry, offering a robust solution to various dental issues such as severe decay, fractures, and cosmetic imperfections. By providing a protective cap that encases a damaged tooth, crowns restore both function and appearance. Let’s delve into how dental crowns work and answer some common questions about the procedure.
How Do You Fix Tooth Decay Under a Crown?
Tooth decay can develop beneath a dental crown, typically due to bacteria becoming trapped at the crown’s margin where it meets the natural tooth. This decay process can compromise the integrity of the tooth and the crown. Fixing decay under a crown involves several detailed steps to ensure the underlying tooth is healthy and the new crown fits perfectly.
Identifying the Problem
The first step in addressing decay under a crown is accurate diagnosis. Dentists use various diagnostic tools such as X-rays and clinical examinations to detect decay that isn’t visible to the naked eye. Symptoms like sensitivity, pain, or visible discoloration near the crown’s edge may indicate underlying decay.
Removing the Old Crown
Once decay is identified, the existing crown must be carefully removed. This process involves gently breaking the cement bond holding the crown in place without damaging the underlying tooth structure. The removal process is done with precision to avoid further trauma to the tooth.
Cleaning Out the Decay
After the crown is removed, the dentist will have full access to the decayed area. Using specialized dental instruments, the dentist will meticulously remove the decayed tissue. This step is crucial as any remaining decay can lead to further complications.
Rebuilding the Tooth Structure
Depending on the extent of the decay, the dentist may need to rebuild the tooth structure to ensure it can support a new crown. This often involves filling the cleaned-out area with a durable filling material. The material is carefully shaped to restore the tooth’s natural contours and provide a solid base for the new crown.
Taking Impressions for a New Crown
With the tooth prepared, the next step is to take an impression of the tooth. This impression is used to create a custom-made crown that fits perfectly over the rebuilt tooth. Advanced dental technology ensures that the new crown will match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
Fitting the New Crown
Once the new crown is ready, it is placed over the prepared tooth. The dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it aligns perfectly with your bite. The crown is then permanently cemented in place. This new crown provides a protective cover that helps prevent future decay and restores the tooth’s function and appearance.
Preventive Care
After the procedure, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent decay from reoccurring. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing, and flossing techniques, along with avoiding sugary foods and drinks, can help keep both your natural teeth and crowns in excellent condition.
Addressing tooth decay under a crown is a detailed process, but with skilled dental care, it can effectively restore your tooth’s health and longevity. If you suspect decay or have concerns about your dental crowns, it’s crucial to consult with your dentist promptly to explore your treatment options.
Is It Painful to Have a Crown Put on Your Tooth?
A common concern among patients needing a dental crown is the potential for pain during the procedure. Fortunately, modern dental techniques and anesthesia options make the process relatively comfortable. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
The Role of Local Anesthesia
Before the procedure begins, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. This ensures that you won’t feel pain during the various steps involved in placing the crown. The anesthetic works by blocking the nerve signals in the targeted area, providing effective pain control. You may feel a slight pinch when the anesthetic is injected, but this is brief and is followed by a numbing sensation that prevents discomfort.
Preparing the Tooth
Once the area is numb, the dentist will start by preparing the tooth to receive the crown. This preparation involves reshaping the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel. The amount removed is approximately the thickness of the crown, ensuring a proper fit. While the sound and vibration of the dental drill might be noticeable, the anesthetic ensures that you won’t feel pain. The goal is to create a stable base for the crown to adhere to, which is crucial for its longevity and functionality.
Taking Impressions
After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will take an impression of the reshaped tooth. This impression is critical as it serves as a model for crafting the custom crown. The impression can be taken using traditional dental putty or with digital scanning technology. If a putty impression is used, you’ll bite into a tray filled with the putty, which can feel a bit odd but is not painful. Digital impressions involve scanning the tooth with a special wand, which is quicker and more comfortable for many patients.
Temporary Crown Placement
While your permanent crown is being made in the lab, a temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the tooth and allows you to chew normally. The placement of the temporary crown is quick and should not cause discomfort. However, it’s important to be cautious with it, as temporary crowns are not as robust as permanent ones.
Sensitivity and Pain Management
Once the local anesthesia wears off, you might experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort around the treated area. This is normal and usually subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage any post-procedure discomfort. Your dentist may also provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Final Crown Placement
At a follow-up visit, usually within a few weeks, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one. Before cementing it in place, the dentist will check the fit and color of the new crown, making any necessary adjustments. This step ensures that the crown fits perfectly with your bite and aligns with adjacent teeth. Once the fit is confirmed, the crown is permanently cemented onto the tooth. This final step is typically quick and, thanks to the previous tooth preparation and adjustments, should not be painful.
Ongoing Comfort and Care
After the crown is placed, it may take a few days to get used to the new feeling in your mouth. Most patients find that the crown feels and functions just like a natural tooth. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help ensure the longevity of your crown and overall oral health.
In summary, getting a dental crown is a straightforward process designed to minimize discomfort. With effective anesthesia and careful dental practices, the procedure is generally pain-free, allowing you to restore your tooth’s function and appearance with confidence. If you have any concerns about pain or the process, discussing them with your dentist can provide reassurance and further reduce anxiety.
How Do Dentists Adjust Crowns?
Once your new crown is in place, it may need some adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. Dentists use a bite test to check how the crown fits with your natural bite. If the crown feels too high or causes discomfort, they will make precise adjustments by gently reshaping the crown’s surface. This process is quick and straightforward, often requiring just a few minutes. Properly adjusted crowns should feel just like your natural teeth, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are a reliable solution for restoring damaged teeth, enhancing both their function and appearance. If you’re experiencing tooth decay or damage, a crown might be the ideal treatment for you. Don’t let dental issues compromise your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with our dental office today to discuss how a dental crown can help restore your smile and maintain your oral health.
