Gold crown
All-Ceramic crown
Porcelain fused to metal crowns
A crown is a means of protecting a tooth that has been weakened through multiple large fillings and decay (cavities). It is usually recommended when there is no other filling material that can be used. There are various kinds of crowns and the one best suited to your situation will be used. You will be given options if possible and the pros and cons of each will be discussed.
A crown is usually done in one appointment using the CEREC technology. If a large bridge is being done there may be additional appointments for try-in of various components.
We first remove any decay and old filling materials, immediately followed by preparation for the crown. A scan, if using CEREC, is done and the crown is designed and constructed. This appointment takes approximately 90-120 minutes for a single crown and more for multiple crowns. You will usually be advised prior to your visit.
In instances where a bridge is being placed, the bridge may be temporarily cemented for a week or so to make sure that your bite is correct. A followup appointment will be made for permanent cementation.
Many people experience very little to no discomfort following the procedures. Much is dependent on your particular situation and you will be advised of such. It is recommended that you rinse with warm salt water rinses on the evening following preparation and possibly the following day as well. Some biting sensitivity may be present for a day or so. Any anti-inflammatory medication should take care of any discomfort you may have. If there are special circumstances you may be prescribed a stronger analgesic.
If you experience continued discomfort please call our office as soon as possible.
A temporary crown may be placed following the first visit (preparation). This is in those situations where the CEREC procedures are not done. It will be placed with a temporary glue that will allow us to easily remove the temporary at the cementation appointment. This temporary is made from a very hard plastic. It is very durable, but can be broken by eating very hard foods or dislodged because it is temporarily cemented.
It is highly recommended that you not eat very hard foods or chew gum or sticky foods while you have your temporary. If you temporary does come out, call the office immediately as it serves to not only protect your tooth, but it also holds space for the permanent crown(s).
The last appointment is for cementation of your new crown. If it is a bonded (all porcelain) crown you will be required to get numb, otherwise no anesthesia is required. This appointment entails slight adjustments (if necessary) to ensure proper function. Also being evaluated will be color match and shape. This appointment is rather quick and takes from 10-30 minutes. Again, if there are multiple teeth being crowned it may take a bit longer.
In the case of a CEREC based crown, the restoration is bonded into place using a special adhesive on the same appointment.
Your new crown should look and feel like "the real thing". All that is needed to ensure success is proper home care and regular maintenance here in our office. Thanks for allowing us to care for you.
If you have any further questions regarding these procedures please do not hesitate to ask.