What Is Involved in Receiving a Dental Crown?

Whether through tooth decay, bruxism (teeth grinding), or a powerful blow, teeth can break, and when they do, a dental crown should be placed to repair the damage and lend them strength. If not, they will only suffer further injury, eventually necessitating an extraction. However, when it comes to receiving a dental crown, you will be faced with a choice. Dental crowns are made out of several materials including metal, porcelain, and a combination of porcelain and metal, and each of these materials has its strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, if you come to your Ankeny IA dentist, Dr. Erika Peddicord, for a dental crown, she will begin by discussing your options with you, providing you with guidance to ensure that you choose the restoration that is right for you.

If, for instance, your damaged tooth is located in the back of your mouth, Dr. Peddicord will likely recommend a metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown as a good choice. These crowns are very strong, allowing them to hold up to the greater bite force that is generated toward the rear of the mouth. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, are not quite as strong as metal or PFM crowns, but they do offer superior cosmetic results, making them a great choice for any tooth that is located in a highly visible position.

Receiving Your Crown

The actual process of receiving your crown, typically takes two dental visits. During the first dental visit, Dr. Peddicord will remove any decayed material from your tooth in order to prepare it to receive a dental crown. Then she will take an impression of your tooth to send to an off-site lab, which will create your custom dental crown. Once your custom crown is complete, it will arrive at out dental office, and we will notify you to come in for your second appointment. In the intervening time, you will wear a temporary crown provided for you by Dr. Peddicord. In your final appointment, Dr. Peddicord will remove this temporary crown and bond your custom crown permanently in place.

About Peddicord Family Dentistry: Dr. Erika Peddicord of Peddicord Family Dentistry received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. Her enthusiasm for building lasting relationships with her patients and her dedication to oral health set her apart as an outstanding family dentist. Patients can schedule an appointment with Dr. Peddicord by calling (515) 963-3339.