The enamel layer of your teeth is very hard and extremely durable, yet there are times when a fall or blow to the face can actually fracture one of your teeth. This is even more likely if you grind your teeth at night on a regular basis. If the tooth is not repaired in a timely manner the fractured area could very likely harbor a new pocket of tooth decay.
In a situation like this, Dr. Justin Nichols or Dr. Mallory Cicmanec (Peck) will usually recommend restoring the entire enamel layer of the tooth with a crown. A crown is essentially a perfect replica of the enamel layer of the tooth. They are often made from either porcelain, gold or base metal alloys. The crown itself is hollow, to allow it to be anchored on a post-like abutment formed from the core structure of the tooth.
Once the enamel layer of the tooth has been cleared away, Dr. Nichols or Dr. Cicmanec (Peck) will make an impression of the abutment and any corresponding teeth. This also includes the teeth in your bite pattern that will match up with the final crown.
The impression is sent to a dental lab where your permanent crown is custom crafted. Then a hard plastic temporary crown is cemented over the abutment to protect it.
We will call you back in for a follow up appointment when your permanent crown is ready. The temporary crown will be removed and your permanent crown is cemented securely into place.
If you have a badly chipped or fractured tooth, please give us a call at Prairie Dental Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota at (605) 335-8640 to have it treated as soon as possible. Our goal is to help you maintain your healthy, confident smile!