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Crowns (Caps)

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  • Introduction
  • Symptoms
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment

Introduction

A crown is a lab created “cap” that serves as a replacement for a tooth.  It fits over a tooth or dental implant.  Crowns restore a tooth’s strength, function, and appearance.

Essentially, a crown becomes the new outer layer for a tooth.  Crowns are used for several reasons.  Following root canal therapy, crowns are used to protect the remaining tooth and provide function.  Crowns are used to cover a tooth with large fillings if the tooth structure has weakened.  The teeth that are next to bridgework may be crowned to provide the bridge with a solid source of attachment.  Additionally, a crown may be used with an implant to replace a lost tooth.  A crown can also protect teeth with cracks and cover teeth that are discolored, chipped, or poorly shaped.

Crowns are created in a lab based on molds of your teeth and gums.  Crowns are made of various materials depending on the strength requirement and desired appearance.  Crowns can be made of porcelain, metal, such as gold, or a combination of both. 

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Symptoms

You may need a crown if you experience tooth fracture or loss.  A crown is usually used in the final step of root canal therapy.  A crown may be required if your tooth can no longer support a very large tooth filling.  You may need crowns to support bridgework. 
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Diagnosis

Your dentist can evaluate your need for a crown by examining your teeth and gums.  Your dentist will check for loose, fractured, or decayed teeth.  X-rays help identify changes in your teeth, bones, and gums.
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Treatment

Treatment with crowns usually requires two dental visits.  First, impressions of your teeth are made to use as a mold for creating the new crown, and your tooth is prepared for crown placement.  At your second visit, the new crown is secured in place.
 
During your first appointment, your dentist will use molding material to create an impression of your teeth.  A model of your teeth will be made from the impression.  A lab technician will use your model as a guide when creating your custom made crown. 
 
Also during your first visit, your dentist will numb the area surrounding the affected tooth and prepare your tooth for the crown.  A tooth typically needs to be made smaller to enable the crown to fit over it.  After your tooth is prepared, your dentist will cover it with a transitional “temporary” crown to protect it until your permanent crown is placed. 
 
At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the tooth is cleaned.  Your dentist will evaluate the fit and appearance of the crown.  Your dentist may adjust the crown to accommodate your bite pattern.  Finally, your new crown is cemented in place.
 
Your new crown can last for many years with proper care.  It is important to brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss at least one time each day.  Pay special attention to the areas surrounding your crown.  Avoid grinding your teeth and chewing on hard items such as candy or ice.  This can damage your crown.
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Copyright © 2022 – iHealthSpot Interactive – www.iHealthSpot.com

This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.

The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.

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  • Kimberly C.

    Dr. Chase has mapped my mouth, fixed teeth, and provided caring and superior dental care for me and my family for years using top-of-the-line practices and equipment. She has been there in a pinch for me and really cares. I smile like a queen thanks to her!!

  • Michele G

    I had a great experience at Mid Bay Dental. Better yet, my 5-year-old daughter came home feeling very proud and happy after her dental cleaning. She was terrified of going to the dentist, and their staff made her feel extra special and gave her confidence about brushing and preventive care!

  • Adam F.

    The dentist and staff always take the time to explain everything to me, answer my questions, and give me the best direction for what I am trying to accomplish. The customer service at Mid Bay Dental is far beyond most other businesses.

  • Bobby R.

    Have been going to Mid Bay Dental for over 15 years, and they make us feel like family. Always willing to work with us on scheduling and welcome us on every visit. Highly recommend the staff here if you have any anxiety about dental visits. The office environment and staff make you feel calm, relaxed, and safe.

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At Mid Bay Dental, Dr. Justine Chase and her staff offer patients in Niceville, FL, and Bluewater Bay area comprehensive dental care services including advanced dental procedures, dental wellness, and family and cosmetic dentistry.