A crown is essentially made from an artificial material that replaces the enamel layer of a tooth. There are many possible reasons why Dr. Sean Ferguson might recommend having one of your teeth fitted for a crown.
If one of your teeth suffers from advanced tooth decay, or you have lost a large filling, there might not be enough healthy enamel remaining to repair the tooth with a filling. At the same time a significant fracture or crack that damages the enamel, but leaves the dentin, pulp and root of the tooth unharmed can also be restored by a crown.
In other situations, a crown might be called for to address a tooth with a cosmetic issue, such as multiple chips in one of the teeth in your smile.
The material your crown is made of will vary depending on the tooth’s primary function in your mouth and its relationship to your smile. Gold, base metals or porcelain are industry standard crown materials.
The process of restoring a tooth with a crown begins with Dr. Sean Ferguson inspecting the tooth, to assess the overall health of the tooth and extent of the damage. If damage or decay extends beyond the enamel layer, they might need to perform a root canal to provide enough healthy structure to anchor a crown.
With the interior of the tooth addressed, Dr. Sean Ferguson will form an abutment by using a drill to remove the majority of the enamel layer. This leaves behind a small amount to protect the dentin and pulp of the tooth. Later on this abutment, will anchor your new crown.
An impression is then taken of the area, which is sent to a dental lab, that makes your new crown. Dr. Sean Ferguson will then cement a temporary crown over the abutment to keep it safe, while you wait for your new crown to be done.
Once your permanent crown is done, Dr. Sean Ferguson will call you in for a brief follow up appointment. The temporary crown is removed and your new permanent crown is cemented in place.
If you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth that you think might need a crown, please call us at 704-786-8317 to schedule an appointment.