Dental Crowns in West Melbourne
A crown is a cap that covers the visible portion of a tooth, restoring its shape, function and appearance. At this practice crowns are made in a dental laboratory and usually take two visits.
When a crown may protect a tooth
A crown may be considered for a large cavity, a weakened or cracked tooth, substantial wear or a tooth that needs protection after root canal treatment. The amount of remaining tooth and the location of any crack help determine whether a crown is appropriate.
What to expect, visit by visit
At the first visit the tooth is numbed and shaped, an impression or record is taken, and a temporary crown is placed to protect it while the permanent one is made by the lab. At the second visit the temporary is removed, the new crown is checked for fit, bite and appearance, and then cemented.
Because the permanent crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory to match your tooth and bite, it takes time to make, which is why treatment is usually split across two appointments.
Caring for a temporary
Temporary crowns are held on lightly. Avoid sticky or hard foods, floss by sliding the floss out sideways, and call us if it comes off so the tooth is protected.
Benefits, limits and alternatives
A crown can protect a cracked or weakened tooth and last many years, but it does not make a tooth immune to decay at the margins, gum disease or fracture. Preparing a tooth removes healthy structure and is irreversible. Alternatives may include a large filling, or when a tooth cannot be saved, an extraction with replacement. Crowns used to replace missing teeth are also part of bridges and implant restorations.
Aftercare
Brush and floss carefully around the gumline, keep regular exams, and report bite problems or lingering sensitivity.
When a crown is and is not the best choice
Crowns make sense when a tooth has lost much of its structure, is cracked, or has had a root canal. They are not necessary for every tooth with a filling, and a smaller repair is often enough for smaller damage. Your exam may also show that a tooth is better replaced than crowned if its roots or gum support are compromised.
Common questions
How many visits does a crown take?
Usually two: preparation with a temporary, then placement of the lab-made crown.
Will the crown be noticeable?
Shade and shape are chosen to blend with your teeth. Tell us what you prefer.
Can a crowned tooth still get a cavity?
Yes, where the crown meets the tooth, so home care matters.
Will I know the cost before treatment?
Dr. Bailey discusses your options and gives expected treatment costs in writing before care begins. Questions about cost are welcome at any point.
What if my temporary crown comes off?
Keep it, call the office and avoid chewing on that tooth. An exposed prepared tooth can be sensitive and can shift, so it is best to be seen soon.
Related care
- Composite Fillings — Tooth-colored fillings that repair decay and small areas of damage.
- Dental Bridges — A fixed way to replace a missing tooth using neighboring teeth.
- Root Canal Therapy — Treating an infected or inflamed tooth nerve to keep the tooth.
Dr. John T. Bailey, DMD · West Melbourne Dentist · 917 South Wickham Road, West Melbourne, FL 32904.
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General dental education, not a diagnosis. Treatment recommendations depend on an individual examination.
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