How to Make Dental Crown Step by Step
Dental crowns are a common dental restoration used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. They are often recommended when a tooth has significant decay, is fractured, or has had a root canal treatment. If you’re interested in learning how dental crowns are made, here’s a step-by-step guide on how they are created and placed in the mouth.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Examination
The first step in making a dental crown is an initial consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and assess the extent of the damage. They will take X-rays and discuss the treatment options with you, including the need for a dental crown.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
Once you and your dentist have agreed on the need for a dental crown, the next step is to prepare the tooth. This involves removing a small amount of tooth structure to create space for the crown. The dentist will use dental instruments to reshape the tooth, ensuring that it is the right shape and size for the crown.
Step 3: Impression Taking
After the tooth has been prepared, an impression of the tooth and the surrounding teeth is taken. This is done using a putty-like material that is placed in the mouth and allowed to harden around the teeth. The impression is then sent to a dental laboratory where the crown will be made.
Step 4: Temporary Crown Placement
While the permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown is designed to protect the tooth and maintain the bite until the permanent crown is ready.
Step 5: Crown Manufacturing
The dental laboratory receives the impression and uses it to create the dental crown. They may use various materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, gold, or metal alloys, depending on the tooth’s location and the patient’s preferences. The crown is crafted to fit over the prepared tooth and blend in with the surrounding teeth.
Step 6: Crown Placement
Once the permanent crown is ready, it is sent back to the dentist’s office. During the next visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is placed over the prepared tooth. The dentist will ensure that the crown fits properly and adjust it as needed. The bite is checked to ensure that the crown does not interfere with the patient’s chewing or speaking.
Step 7: Final Adjustments and Follow-Up
After the crown is placed, the dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure the patient’s comfort and proper function. The patient will be given instructions on how to care for the new crown, including maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding damaging habits. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor the health of the crown and the surrounding teeth.
In conclusion, the process of making a dental crown involves several steps, from the initial consultation to the final placement of the permanent crown. By understanding the process, patients can better appreciate the importance of dental crowns and the care required to maintain their oral health.
