Even if you need a dental crown, you can’t just get one instantly. A dentist will have to prepare your tooth for this special cap first; treatment won’t work otherwise. With that said, just what does this preparation process involve? Your Arlington dental practice can address this question, so there’s no need to wonder much. Just keep reading to learn how dentists prepare teeth for dental crowns, as well as the perks that come from their doing so.
How Teeth are Prepared for Crowns
Before they place your dental crown, a dentist will take four steps to prepare your tooth for it. These are the following:
An Initial Oral Exam
To start things off, the dentist will check the affected tooth for signs of damage. This work can include direct observation, but it more often relies on dental X-rays. The latter provides clear images, which can show your dental team exact views of your tooth’s roots.
Some Dental Drilling
Once they’ve assessed your tooth, the dentist will drill into it a bit. Rest assured that this process isn’t painful; the dental team will numb your mouth beforehand. Indeed, the drilling won’t involve any soreness or irritation that would disrupt your care. You’ll only feel a slight pressure at most, which comes from the dental team’s operation.
Cleaning & Filling
The dentist will clean and fill your tooth’s interior after they’ve finished drilling. In doing so, they’ll remove harmful debris from your mouth and disinfect the treatment site. These efforts ensure you face a lower risk of a tooth infection later on.
Smoothing of Your Enamel
To conclude the “prep work,” the dentist will smooth out your tooth’s enamel. This step gets rid of jagged edges that could cut your mouth’s soft tissues over time. At the same time, it removes rough spots that could keep your prosthetic from fitting properly.
Why the Preparation is Worthwhile
While it adds time to your treatment, preparing a tooth for a dental crown matters. The work ensures your final cap offers benefits like:
- Versatile Care – By covering the whole surface of teeth, dental crowns can treat cavities, chips, cracks, and more.
- A Healthier Smile– Due to their durability, dental crowns can protect your teeth and withstand your bite. They thus help you avoid the need for root canals or tooth extractions.
- Natural Looks – Modern dental crowns use tooth-colored materials, so they blend seamlessly with your smile.
- Enduring Results – Most dental crowns last an average of 5-15 years, while those given proper care can work 30 years or more.
To learn more about the crown preparation process, see your dental provider. They’ll share the relevant details with you.
About the Practice
Foundation Dental Solutions is based in Arlington, TX. Led by Dr. Douglas Baldwin, our practice is always working to improve patients’ quality of life. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative oral services, with each one tailored to your smile’s needs. Whether your goal is a dental checkup or dental crowns, our team is ready and eager to help! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (817)-478-4300.