When a tooth experiences severe decay or fracture, a filling will not suffice. Often, what is needed instead is a crown. This dental restoration, sometimes referred to as a cap, covers the affected tooth and protects it from further damage. Dr. Foust, at Dental Impressions of Ankeny, wants her patients to understand the why, what, and how of dental crowns.
If You Need a Crown, Act Now
A dental crown doesn’t just restore a decayed or cracked tooth, it reinforces the remaining tooth structure, renewing strength and comfortable function. Without a crown, the affected tooth risks further damage, which could seriously compromise your comfort and oral health. Human teeth do not heal on their own, as does skin. A fractured tooth, for instance, can actually break off, in which case you’ll require immediate emergency dental care. In the case of a large cavity, without restoration, the infection will spread and could result in death of the tooth, abscess, or blood borne infection.
Fitting and Securing a Dental Crown
Your dental crown will be custom made and placed in just two appointments. During the initial visit, Dr. Foust will prepare the tooth and secure a temporary crown. She will take impressions of your bite, then send them to the dental lab where your custom crown will be fabricated. You’ll wear the temporary for a week or two, in most cases. At your second visit, Dr. Foust will remove the temporary and permanently affix your custom crown.
TIP: Avoid eating sticky and hard foods that might dislodge or crack the temporary crown.
Crown Fabrication
Durable, biocompatible dental materials are used in fabricating crowns. For a tooth that shows when you smile, an all-ceramic or all-porcelain crown will preserve your all-white smile, but also function well for biting food. Precious metal, zirconia, or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are usually preferred on back teeth, which have to endure extreme pressure when you chew food. Dr. Foust will explain her recommendations for your dental crown and answer all of your questions at your dental appointment.
Call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, Iowa at (515) 965-0230 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Foust. Our dental office welcomes families from Polk City, Bondurant, Elkhart, Alleman, Ankeny, and neighboring communities.
