How is a Crown Fixed to a Tooth?
Crown placement is a common dental procedure that involves restoring the shape, size, and strength of a damaged tooth. When a tooth is severely decayed, fractured, or weakened, a dental crown is often recommended to protect it from further damage. But how exactly is a crown fixed to a tooth? This article will explore the process in detail.
The first step in the crown placement process is to prepare the tooth. The dentist will begin by anesthetizing the area around the tooth to ensure the patient is comfortable during the procedure. Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove any decayed or damaged material from the tooth, shaping it to accommodate the crown. This may involve removing a significant amount of tooth structure, depending on the extent of the damage.
After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth and its surrounding teeth. This impression is used to create a model of the patient’s mouth, which is then sent to a dental laboratory. In the laboratory, technicians will use the model to create a custom-fitted dental crown that matches the color, shape, and size of the patient’s natural teeth.
Once the dental crown is ready, the dentist will place it over the prepared tooth. To ensure a secure fit, the dentist will use dental cement to bond the crown to the tooth. The cement is applied to the inside of the crown and then to the tooth’s surface. The dentist will then shine a special light on the cement to harden it, creating a strong bond between the crown and the tooth.
After the cement has hardened, the dentist will check the fit of the crown. The crown should be comfortable and not interfere with the patient’s bite. If any adjustments are needed, the dentist will make them before cementing the crown permanently.
Once the crown is securely in place, the patient will be able to chew and speak normally without any discomfort. The dental crown is designed to last for many years, but it will require proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to maintain its integrity.
In some cases, a temporary crown may be placed on the tooth while the permanent crown is being made. This temporary crown will protect the tooth until the custom-fitted crown is ready. Temporary crowns are usually removed before the permanent crown is cemented in place.
In conclusion, the process of fixing a crown to a tooth involves preparing the tooth, creating a custom-fitted crown, and bonding it to the tooth using dental cement. This procedure is designed to restore the function and appearance of the tooth, providing patients with a durable and natural-looking solution to dental damage.
