Crowns and Restorative Dentistry Q & A
What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on correcting damaged teeth and gums following traumatic damage, decay, disease, or even surgery. The most common restorative procedures include crowns, bridges, tooth-colored fillings, inlays and onlays, dental implants, and gum grafting procedures to restore gums that have receded as a result of advanced periodontal disease.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are protective coverings that surround the entire visible portion of a tooth. They can be used to hide cosmetic defects like large, dark fillings or tooth discoloration that can’t be treated with whitening, and they can also be used to restore and protect teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or broken. Plus, they’re used to protect and strengthen the teeth that are used to support a dental bridge.
How is a dental crown applied?
In most cases, a crown can be placed on a tooth in two office visits. During the first visit, the tooth will be reshaped by removing some of the surface material from the tooth. Reducing the size of the tooth is necessary to ensure there’s ample room for the crown to fit comfortably without causing crowding issues. Next, Dr. Fromzel will make an impression or mold of the tooth and send it to the lab where the crown will be created. The shade of the tooth will also be determined at the first visit, and a temporary crown will be placed on the tooth to protect it. At the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the tooth will be carefully cleaned, then Dr. Fromzel will “dry-fit” the crown, making any minor adjustments to ensure a proper fit. Finally, the crown will be applied to the tooth using a strong dental adhesive.
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations made of durable, tooth-colored porcelain and designed to correct large areas of damage that aren’t extensive enough to need a crown. Onlays treat damage that extends down the side of the tooth, while inlays are used for damage contained within the top surface areas of the tooth.
Does a missing tooth always have to be replaced?
Yes. When a tooth is missing, it leaves a gap, and soon, the teeth on either side will begin to lean inward, causing the roots to shift and loosen. Eventually, these teeth can also be lost, creating a domino effect that can lead to extensive tooth loss and a significantly increased risk of infection and decay.