If
a tooth is severely decayed, broken, or brittle, then a dentist
may suggest that an artificial crown be placed on the tooth. This
should be a painless procedure that takes two or three office visits.
If the roots and base of the tooth are strong, then a dentist will
prepare the tooth for the crown by removing a portion of the enamel
and dentin.
If the tooth is severely decayed, or weak, then is may be necessary
to insert a metal post into the tooth to support the crown. In this
case, root canal therapy is performed, and then the post is fit
into the cleaned out root.
Since the crown must be carefully constructed to match the opposing
tooth and ensure a correct bite, several impressions of the teeth
are taken and sent to a lab which will construct the crown. A temporary
crown will be applied to protect the tooth until the next appointment.
At the second visit, the dentist will fit the crown over the old
tooth; and if the fit is good, then the dentist will cement the
crown into place. Depending on the materials used in constructing
the crown, it should last from at least 25 years to life.
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