When dental cavities weaken a tooth, its structure needs to have strength so it wouldn’t have to be removed. A dental crown is one of the popular choices of a tooth restoration that’s cost-effective. It’s also known as a cap that fully encases a compromised tooth to prevent further damage. Aside from stabilizing the tooth’s structure, it also restores its appearance.
A dental crown procedure is necessary under the following conditions.
- It’s used to complete a root canal treatment.
- To cover ill-shaped or discolored teeth.
- It’s also used to cover a large dental filling.
- To cap off a dental implant for aesthetic purposes.
- A crown could also protect a cracked, weakened or worn down tooth.
Traditional vs modern dental crown restoration
In the past, a dental crown restoration required two dental visits. Today, dental clinics use modern equipment, which helps dental practitioners complete the procedure in a single visit.
Conventional method
During the initial consultation, the dentist visually checks the tooth and takes an X-ray to see the degree of the damage. In this phase, he discusses the treatment plan and the work to be done to save the tooth. If the damage is caused by cavities, the cavities are removed first and determines if a partial or full restoration is needed. When most of the tooth’s structure is removed, he proceeds with the dental crown procedure. He, then, takes a dental impression using resin material to create a model and send it to the dental laboratory for fabrication. Meanwhile, he sends the patient home after putting a temporary crown. In about two weeks, the permanent crown is completed and sent back to the clinic. As soon as the dentist advises him to return, the patient comes back to receive his permanent dental crown.
Contemporary method
At present, dental clinics have adapted to modern technology, making the patient’s crown restoration faster and more efficient. Furthermore, they make changes in their chairside workflow for faster turnaround time in completing a dental crown procedure in one visit.
During the consultation phase, dentists use digital X-ray imaging to identify the underlying cause and design a treatment plan. For instance, for a cracked or worn down tooth, a crown is most suitable to restore its structure and aesthetics. To do this, the dentist takes a digital impression as he scans the tooth and data is immediately sent to the milling machine. After that, a permanent crown is milled within an hour and is ready for cementation. Needless to say, there’s no need to place a temporary crown since the patient gets his tooth restored in two hours.
Dentists understand that their patients value a speedy treatment without compromising efficiency. If you need a tooth to be restored, choose dental crown in London, Ontario and have a lasting smile.