What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a shell that can fit over your tooth in order to correct a number of dental issues. Usually, dental crowns are used to protect a tooth that has been weakened or damaged by decay, or to hold a broken tooth together. Dental crowns may also be used to restore teeth that have been worn down from use or from teeth grinding. If a patient has a dental implant or discolored and misshapen teeth, dental crowns may provide an excellent cosmetic solution. They are also placed over anchoring teeth to hold fixed dental bridges in place.

‍

Temporary Dental Crowns

Temporary dental crowns are usually put into place while permanent crowns are made at a special laboratory. These require special care, and it is important that you do not chew gum or eat foods such as caramel while the temporary crown is in place. Your dentist may also ask that you avoid particularly hard or crunchy foods as well. While your temporary crown is in place you will need to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth as much as possible, and use special care when brushing and flossing. In fact, your dentist may recommend that you omit flossing until your permanent crown is put into place.

‍

What is involved in getting Redondo Beach dental crowns?

Usually, your dentist will first take an x-ray and examine your teeth to see how extensive the damage to your tooth is. In some cases, they may perform a root canal or use dental bonding to build up your tooth's structure before preparing the crown. Once this is done, your dentist will numb your tooth and prepare it by filing down the chewing surface. The amount that needs to be filed will depend on which type of crown you will be receiving. Next, your dentist will take an impression of the tooth and send this to a dental lab where the dental crown will be made. In the meantime, your dentist will put a temporary crown into place to prevent any further damage to the tooth. Once your permanent crown arrives, your dentist will check the fit carefully before permanently cementing the dental crown into place.

If you have a tooth that is decayed or broken, it is important that you schedule an appointment as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your tooth. Call us today at (310) 378-9241 to schedule an appointment. Our caring and professional staff can quickly restore your tooth and get you back on your way with a pain-free smile in as little time as possible. Redondo Beach Dental Crowns Dr. Michael Z Hopkins has performed numerous dental crown procedures in his Redondo Beach Office in the Riviera Village area.