Crowns
A crown is a porcelain or metal "cap" that protects a broken down or fractured tooth from further deterioration. It works like a barrel hoop to hold a tooth together. A crown is necessary when a tooth has a majority of structure lost to decay or fracture, when the tooth is cracked, or when a root canal therapy has been performed. Crowns may also be placed for cosmetic reasons or to correct a misshapen tooth.
Same Day CAD-CAM Crowns
At our office, we use computer technology called CAD-CAM to design and fabricate our crowns in–office. With this system, we have eliminated the need for impressions and temporaries. The impression is made digitally by the computer “reading” the tooth, and the actual crown is fabricated in office in a computerized mill in our laboratory and delivered to the patient in one visit. Our cad-cam system can also be used for crowns, onlays and porcelain veneers.
Life Span
A crown can last fifteen - twenty years or longer if properly cared for. The important thing to remember is that decay can occur even if the tooth is covered with a crown. The margin where the crown meets the tooth must be kept clean or decay can take hold and undermine the crown. Proper oral hygiene, use of fluoride, and regular dental checkups will minimize the problem.
What a Crown Looks Like
A porcelain crown generally looks just like a tooth. We generally use all ceramic crowns at this office fabricated with our computer aided in-office system.
Aesthetics
Before we cement a porcelain crown, we ask for the patient's approval of the way it looks. For front crowns, patients have the option of bringing a spouse or a friend to approve aesthetics. It is important to carefully evaluate aesthetics and express any concerns about cosmetics before the crown is cemented. Once a crown is in place, it cannot be replaced for cosmetic reasons without an additional charge.
Possible Complications for a crown
Sensitivity or Pain
Some sensitivity is normal for twenty-four hours. If it persists or if you experience severe pain, we need to know.
Abscess
Because crowns are placed on teeth that have suffered major trauma through decay or fracture, there is a possibility that the tooth could abscess in the future, even though there may be no indication at time of crown placement.
"High" feeling
A crown may need occlusal adjustment after placement. If your crown does not feel right when you chew, you need to return to the office.
