Dental crowns are a common and effective way to restore damaged, weakened, or cosmetically compromised teeth. If your dentist has recommended a crown, you may wonder what the preparation process involves. Understanding how dentists prepare teeth for crowns can help ease anxiety and set clear expectations for your appointment.
Why Teeth Need to Be Prepared for Crowns
A dental crown is designed to fully cover a tooth, protecting it while restoring strength, shape, and appearance. To ensure a proper fit and long-lasting results, the natural tooth must be reshaped so the crown can sit securely without affecting your bite or surrounding teeth. Preparation also removes decay or damaged areas that could compromise the crown.
Exam and Treatment Planning
Before preparation begins, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of the tooth and surrounding structures. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the roots and bone and to check for decay or infection. If significant decay, fracture, or nerve damage is present, additional treatment such as a filling, buildup, or root canal may be required before the crown can be placed.
Numbing and Tooth Reshaping
To keep you comfortable, the dentist will numb the tooth and surrounding gums using local anesthesia. Once numb, the dentist carefully reshapes the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel from the outer surfaces. This step creates space for the crown so it doesn’t look bulky or interfere with your bite. The amount of enamel removed depends on the type of crown being used.
Building Up the Tooth (If Needed)
If a tooth is badly worn or broken, there may not be enough natural structure left to support a crown. In these cases, your dentist will perform a core buildup using a tooth-colored filling material. This rebuilds the tooth’s foundation, ensuring the crown has a stable base for proper fit and function.
Taking Impressions or Digital Scans
Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will take impressions or digital scans of your tooth and bite. These detailed records are sent to a dental lab where your custom crown is fabricated to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth.
Temporary Crown Placement
While your permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. This protects the tooth, maintains appearance, and allows you to chew comfortably. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for the temporary crown until your next visit.
Preparing a tooth for a crown is a precise process designed to ensure durability, comfort, and a natural appearance. With proper preparation and care, a dental crown can protect your tooth and restore your smile for many years.
About the Practice
We have a beautiful solution for your damaged and decayed teeth at RidgeGate Dental of Parker with dental crowns. Our experienced and friendly dental team will put your needs first. You’ll enjoy our digital impressions that allow for a smoother patient experience, and we’ll accept your dental insurance and have financing options available to help manage costs. Don’t delay – schedule your appointment online or call (303) 797-6453.