Dental Crowns

Savannah Dentist

Over time, our teeth begin to weaken and become more susceptible to problems such as decay, cracks or discoloration. Crowns are used to renew the appearance and function of a tooth. Crowns are not limited to just replacing the original tooth, but can also be designed to create an even better aesthetic appearance.

Other reasons for needing a dental crown include:

  • To protect a weak tooth from breaking or to hold together parts of a cracked tooth
  • To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t a lot of tooth left
  • To cover severely discolored teeth
  • To restore an already broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely worn down

Also, crowns are often used in conjunction with root canal therapy or dental implants or as an anchor for a bridge.

The procedure for receiving a crown is as follows:

First Visit

  1. X-rays are taken to check the roots of the tooth receiving the crown. If the tooth has extensive decay or there is a risk of infection, a root canal treatment may be performed before placing the crown.
  2. Anesthesia is used to numb the area to eliminate discomfort. The tooth that is receiving the crown is filed to make room for the crown.
  3. Our Savannah dentist makes an impression of the tooth using paste or putty. These impressions are sent to the lab where the crown will be manufactured.
  4. A temporary crown is placed to cover and protect the prepared tooth while the crown is being made.

Second Visit

  1. Once your permanent crown has arrived, your temporary crown is removed and your permanent crown is placed over your tooth to ensure the right fit and color.
  2. If the permanent crown is acceptable, an anesthetic is used to numb the tooth and the crown is permanently cemented in place.

Crowns are typically made from porcelain in order to maintain strength and a natural appearance. The process of placing a crown may take 2-3 office visits. Once treatment is complete, continue to practice proper at-home care and keep regular office visits to help your crown last many years.  Much like your original teeth, crowns require routine brushing and flossing.

Contact our Savannah office for more information.