How Does a Dental Crown Stay in Place?

Dental crowns are considered one of the most widely used restorations in dentistry. They are a “cap” for a tooth that can no longer function on its own. It may be a tooth that suffered a traumatic injury or one that is badly decayed or infected. In either case, if too much healthy tooth structure is lost, a dental crown is the perfect solution. It encases all visible surfaces of the tooth down to the gum line, which restores proper integrity and strength to a compromised tooth. After getting a dental crown, you can care for and use the crown just like the rest of your natural teeth. Such natural and durable function begs the question, “how does a crown actually stay in place?” It’s more complex than you may realize.

The Crown Process

While there are many different types of dental crowns, they all involve the same general process. First, your tooth will be trimmed or shaved to remove the damaged layers. Next, an impression of the tooth is taken to ensure your crown fits precisely and provides a comfortable bite. The impression and any digital measurements are used to fabricate the custom crown. Remember, a crown can be tailored in color, form, and shape to blend in with your existing smile. When the finished crown is ready, your dentist will slip it over your tooth. If the fit is correct and comfortable, your crown will be cemented into place using a strong bonding material.

Can a Crown Come Off?

While a crown is designed to stay secure for several years, there are certain situations in which a dental crown becomes loose or pops off completely. Don’t worry; it is often an easy fix to cement it back in place. If you must wait to see a dentist, you can clean your tooth as well as the inside of the crown thoroughly and place it back on your tooth with a temporary dental cement from the drugstore. At Gilreath Family Dentistry, we want to hear from you as soon as you experience discomfort in your dental crown. It is never a good idea to leave your compromised tooth exposed without a crown. We will replace the crown and restore your smile promptly.

To learn more about how the crown process works, visit Gilreath Family Dentistry. We stay at the forefront of restorative dentistry for the sake of our patients!