Dental Crown After Tooth Decay: What Happens Next?

Why a Crown Is Used After Tooth Decay

A filling is great on its own when plenty of intact tooth remains around the decayed portion. However, deep decay can rob a tooth of its ability to withstand the forces of everyday chewing, making a crown a better option. This restoration encases whatever healthy tooth remains and provides it with a reinforced outer surface.

What Happens to the Decayed Tooth?

Your dentist will evaluate how far decay has progressed and whether an X-ray is necessary to spot problems that may not be visible at a first glance. If the decay is near or has reached the nerve, root canal treatment may be necessary before the crown is placed.

• A small amount of healthy tooth must be left, or another type of restoration will have to be considered

• If the decay extends into the tooth’s pulp, root canal treatment must be performed before a crown can be placed, as a sealed, healthy tooth is the best foundation for a durable restoration.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown Fitted

The process of actually fitting a crown is surprisingly simple. Once your dentist has prepared the tooth, he or she will take impressions or a digital scan so that the replacement restoration can be shaped to fit precisely. Special consideration is given to the colour and shape, if aesthetics are a concern (as they often are for front teeth). Finally, the crown is fitted for the first time and bonded in place. Your bite will be checked to make sure that the crown does not put undue stress on the surrounding teeth.

Appearance After Having a Crown Fitted for Tooth Decay

A crown is a sturdy restoration, but it still needs your help to keep the underlying tooth structure healthy. The most common reason for crown failure is decay around or beneath the crown, caused by food particles and plaque building up around the restoration. This can be prevented by brushing properly (and perhaps using interdental brushes or floss to clean between teeth, if the crown’s shape allows).

Another issue to look out for is looseness, discomfort or sensitivity. If any of these arise, contact your dentist to see what the cause might be. It’s not a good idea to simply ignore such issues in the hope that they will go away.

• Chewing should generally be comfortable, though you may feel some discomfort due to the altered shape of the crowned tooth

• Chewy foods should be treated with caution, especially in the first few weeks, since they can cause a crowned tooth to slip out of position

• Pay special attention to keeping the gum along the edge of the crown clean, since bacteria can accumulate there easily

Is a Crown the Right Option for Treating Tooth Decay?

If a crown is necessary, it should be installed as soon as possible after tooth decay is detected. Crowns are a good choice for teeth that have been compromised but still have enough healthy structure to be saved, as they restore both the function and the aesthetics of a chipped, broken or decayed tooth.

Dental Implant Services in Popular Locations

---