Top Questions to Ask Before Getting a Dental Crown in Wauwatosa, WI

Dental crowns are one of the most common dental restorations offered for patients who are in need of a procedure that can extend the life of a damaged tooth. However, not everyone knows when and why it is necessary to get a dental crown. With that being said, we at Wauwatosa Dental Arts listed down the most common questions patients ask regarding the procedure with its corresponding answers.

What is a crown?

A crown is a type of tooth-shaped prosthesis that encases a tooth that has been damaged or decayed to improve its appearance and function. It usually uses a material that closely resembles the look of the teeth, so patients are assured that aesthetic wise, it is an ideal solution.

Why is a crown needed?

Unlike a fractured bone, it is not possible for a tooth to heal itself. The usual sign to know if a tooth has been broken is if it hurts while biting down. It is necessary to have a crown placed over the damaged tooth to prevent the problem from worsening. A crown is also essential if a vertical crack is extending to the gumline. It is always best to have a crown placed before the damage extends below the gumline. If left unattended, it may require crown lengthening, a root canal, or even an extraction.

Other reasons to need a crown:

• To replace an old filling
• Serve as a prosthesis to be attached to a dental implant
• If the cavity is too large for a dental filling
• To improve the look of a poorly shaped tooth
• Fix discoloration
• Preserve the tooth after a root canal treatment
• Protect a weakened tooth
• Serve as anchors for a dental bridge

How is a crown placed?

• The dentist would first prepare the tooth by removing some of its surfaces to make way for the prosthesis. Any damaged or decayed portion will be eliminated to prevent underlying problems in the future. If there is an insufficient amount of structure left, a filling may be applied for added support.
• Impressions will be taken from the patient’s teeth to serve as the model for the custom-creation of the dental prosthesis.
• Since the crown will be created on an off-site laboratory, a temporary prosthesis will be placed while waiting for the permanent appliance. It is necessary for the patient to avoid chewing sticky foods for the meantime.
• As soon as the dental crown is ready, the dentist would check the prosthesis and make any necessary adjustments. The crown would then be cemented in place after the dentist has evaluated that the prosthesis would look and feel as natural as the adjacent teeth.

We at Wauwatosa Dental Arts strive to keep our patients’ oral health in great shape, so we offer any possible treatments that can cater to their needs. To preserve or protect any damaged tooth, we provide Crowns in Wauwatosa, WI. For more information about the procedure, call or visit us at 11600 W North Ave Wauwatosa, WI 53226.