When to Consider a Dental “Crowning”
Have you ever been crowned? Millions of American men and women wear dental crowns, or caps, to cover teeth that have for some reason gone bad. A capping procedure is safe and effective, and can improve both your dental health and the way you look to others.
The Purpose of Dental Crowns
Not everyone has a naturally perfect smile. Even teeth that look good may not be healthy and will require special attention. An original tooth may be badly shaped or discolored and need a cosmetic improvement. Additionally, teeth may be damaged through injury or neglectful personal behavior, such as using them to open bottles. In the event of a more extensive treatment, a crown can be used to cover a dental implant.
Fitting a Dental Crown
A capping procedure is similar to a filling, although it will require two visits to the dental office. In the first visit, you will be given a local anesthetic to eliminate pain, after which the tooth will be filed down to allow for proper placement of the crown. The dentist will then take an impression, actually a mold from which the fixture will be cast. A temporary crown will be used to cover and protect the area until the final product is completed. A capping may be done in conjunction with a root canal, which is more involved because it involves the removal of the nerve within and then the sealing of the tooth.