Dental Crowns- A Step-by-Step Guide to How Dentists Craft Your Smile Restoration

How do they do a crown at the dentist? This is a common question among individuals who have recently experienced tooth decay or damage. A dental crown, also known as a tooth cap, is a custom-made covering that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. The process of getting a dental crown involves several steps, and this article will provide a detailed explanation of each stage.

Firstly, the dentist will evaluate the condition of the tooth during an initial consultation. If the tooth is deemed suitable for a crown, the dentist will proceed with the preparation process. This involves the following steps:

1. Local anesthesia: The dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area to ensure the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure.

2. Tooth reduction: Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will file down the damaged tooth to create a space for the crown. This is done to ensure that the crown fits properly over the remaining tooth structure.

3. Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth is taken. This impression is then used to create a model of the patient’s mouth, which will be used to fabricate the custom crown.

4. Temporary crown: In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it and maintain the bite alignment. This temporary crown can be worn for a few weeks while the permanent crown is being made.

5. Crown fabrication: The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where technicians will create a custom crown using high-quality materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or gold. This process can take a few weeks.

6. Crown fitting: Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will schedule an appointment to fit the crown. During this visit, the temporary crown will be removed, and the new crown will be placed over the prepared tooth. The dentist will check the fit, bite, and color of the crown to ensure it is perfect.

7. Crown cementation: If the crown fits well and looks natural, the dentist will cement it into place using a special dental cement. This ensures that the crown stays securely in place.

8. Final check-up: After the crown is cemented, the dentist will conduct a final check-up to ensure that the patient is comfortable with the new crown and that it is functioning properly.

In conclusion, the process of getting a dental crown at the dentist involves several steps, from tooth preparation to crown fabrication and fitting. While the procedure may seem daunting, it is a necessary treatment to restore the health and functionality of a damaged tooth. If you have any concerns or questions about dental crowns, it is always best to consult with a dental professional for personalized advice and guidance.