A dental crown is fitted over two appointments, so the crown prosthetic can be properly fitted to the prepared tooth. Aesthetic, strength and biocompatibility all factor into Zirconia being our preferred material for a dental crown. However, other types of crowns are available; this can be explored during your consultation.
Step one – The dentist will assess the issue to appropriately prepare the tooth, typically using a local anaesthetic to numb the area. They’ll then proceed by removing any weakened or damaged tooth structure. The remaining surface of the tooth will then be shaped to fit the crown cap.
Step two – The dentist will proceed to take an impression of the prepared tooth so a dental crown can be designed in a laboratory. During this process, the dentist may take an image or perform a colour match so that if the crown is visible, it seamlessly blends with the natural colour of the other teeth.
Step three – A temporary crown is fitted, which is usually fabricated from an acrylic material designed to bring function whilst the permanent crown is being manufactured.
Step four – Attending the secondary appointment means the temporary crown will be removed from the tooth, and the permanent crown will be fitted.
The permanent crown is secured to the prepared tooth using dental cement, an incredibly durable adhesive ideal for long-term dental prosthetics.
How will a failed dental crown be fixed?
The approach taken to repair a damaged dental crown will depend on the severity of the damage to the crown as well as the health of the tooth beneath.
A chipped crown
For instance, if there is no damage to the structure but minor impacts on the aesthetics because it has chipped. The crown can be fixed using composite bonding on the chipped area.
A crown that has detached
If a crown has just become detached from the tooth with no damage to the crown or the tooth, it may be possible to recement it, securing it back in place.
A crown that has completely failed
If a crown has completely failed, the dentist will remove any remaining crown and then proceed to take an impression for the crown to be crafted again.
If the tooth is damaged beneath, the dentist may reshape the tooth and take a secondary impression for a new crown to be crafted.