What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, often simply referred to as “crowns,” are a type of dental restoration that completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. These restorations are typically used when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth. They are typically bonded to the tooth using dental cement. Dental crowns can be made from many materials, which are usually fabricated using indirect methods. Crowns are often used to improve the strength or appearance of teeth. Dr. Alexandra Cristescu at Eastside Family Dentistry in Issaquah is highly skilled and experienced in providing dental crown treatments to her patients.
The Dental Crowns Treatment Process
Initial Consultation and Examination
The first step in the dental crown process involves a consultation and thorough examination with Dr. Cristescu. During this appointment, she will evaluate the health of your teeth and gums and discuss your dental health goals. If a dental crown is deemed the best treatment option, she will explain the process in detail, ensuring you understand the procedure and any alternatives that may be available.
Tooth
Preparation
To prepare your tooth for a crown, Dr. Cristescu will remove any decay and shape the tooth to fit the crown. This process may involve filing down the tooth or building it up with a filling material to support the crown. Once the tooth is prepared, an impression will be made of the tooth and surrounding teeth to ensure the crown fits perfectly. This impression will be sent to a dental laboratory where your custom crown will be created.
Crown
Placement
Once your custom crown has been created, Dr. Cristescu will schedule a second appointment for the crown placement. During this appointment, she will place the crown over your prepared tooth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Once you and Dr. Cristescu are satisfied with the fit and appearance, the crown will be cemented into place, completing the process.
The Benefits Of Dental Crowns
Improved Tooth Function
One of the main benefits of dental crowns is the restoration of tooth function. If a tooth is damaged or decayed, it can make eating and speaking difficult. A dental crown can restore the shape and size of the tooth, allowing for normal function. Plus, because crowns are custom-made, they can be designed to match the shape and size of your natural teeth, providing a seamless fit.Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance
Dental crowns not only restore function, but they can also significantly enhance the aesthetic appearance of your teeth. Whether it’s a tooth that’s discolored, misshapen, or simply unattractive, a dental crown can cover the imperfection and provide you with a beautiful, natural-looking smile.Long-Lasting Durability
Dental crowns are designed to be long-lasting and durable. With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, a dental crown can last for many years. This makes them a cost-effective solution for those looking to restore the function and appearance of their teeth. Dr. Cristescu uses high-quality materials to ensure the longevity of your dental crowns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Replacing a dental crown is a common procedure that many patients undergo at Eastside Family Dentistry with Dr. Alexandra Cristescu. The process typically involves two appointments.
During your first visit, Dr. Cristescu will remove the old crown and prepare the tooth for a new one. This may include reshaping the tooth to ensure the new crown fits perfectly. An impression of your tooth is then taken, which is used to create a custom crown that matches the shape and color of your natural teeth.
Once the impression is taken, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth until the permanent crown is ready. The creation of the permanent crown usually takes about two to three weeks.
When it’s ready, you’ll return for your second appointment, where Dr. Cristescu will remove the temporary crown and place the new one. The entire procedure is designed to be as comfortable and efficient as possible, ensuring you leave with a crown that feels natural and functions just like a real tooth.
After getting a dental crown, many patients wonder about their eating habits and restrictions. Once the permanent crown is placed, you can resume normal eating habits almost immediately. However, it is advisable to wait at least an hour or so to allow the dental cement to fully set. This ensures that your new crown is securely in place and ready to handle the pressure of chewing.
If you have a temporary crown, it’s important to be a bit more cautious with your diet. Temporary crowns are not as durable as permanent ones, so avoiding sticky or hard foods can prevent the crown from becoming dislodged.
It’s best to avoid foods like chewy candies, nuts, or crunchy vegetables until your permanent crown is in place. Dr. Cristescu and her team will provide you with specific aftercare instructions tailored to your situation to ensure your comfort and the longevity of your crown.
The thought of dental procedures often brings concerns about pain and discomfort. At Eastside Family Dentistry, patient comfort is a top priority. When it comes to getting a dental crown, the procedure itself should not be painful. Dr. Cristescu uses local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring you feel no pain during the preparation and placement of the crown. You might feel some pressure or mild discomfort as your tooth is being prepared, but it should not be painful.
After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort around the affected area. This is normal and usually subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol can help manage any discomfort. If you experience significant pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away, it’s important to contact Dr. Cristescu’s office for a checkup to make sure that everything is healing properly.
Having a temporary crown come off can be unsettling, but it’s a situation that can be addressed quickly. If your temporary crown comes off, it’s important to contact Eastside Family Dentistry as soon as possible. Dr. Cristescu and her team will prioritize getting you in for a quick appointment to re-cement the temporary crown or provide a replacement.
In the meantime, try to keep the area clean by gently brushing and flossing. If the crown is still intact, you can attempt to place it back over the tooth as a temporary measure. Some pharmacies carry temporary dental cement, which can be used to hold the crown in place until you can see Dr. Cristescu.
Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth to prevent further irritation or damage. Rest assured, the team at Eastside Family Dentistry is dedicated to providing prompt care to ensure your dental health is maintained and you remain comfortable until your permanent crown is ready.
