Dental Crown
Vancouver, WA
Dental Crown provided by Joseph Kim, DDS
in Vancouver, WA at Riverstone Family Dentistry
 Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we still get a cavity in our teeth. Unfortunately, this can hurt the health of the surrounding teeth. When this happens Riverstone Family Dentistry wants you to know that a crown (a.k.a. dental cap) is a very viable option. This is a type of dental restoration that will completely encircle your entire tooth, being held there with dental cement. Typically, they're used when you have a large cavity that threatens the tooth's health.
It's easy to place them here as long as you have enough of the tooth left to hold the crown in place. However, even when you have a large chip in your tooth, it's usually still possible for us to use a filling material to build your tooth up enough to hold your crown in place.
The Process Associated with Dental Crowns
This process starts with taking impressions so we can make a model for your crown. This won't hurt, but it is uncomfortable. It would help if you weren't anxious or fearful of it because there's honestly nothing to fret.
Since we use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth we're working on (as well as the teeth next to it) while preparing it to receive a crown, you won't feel any pain. The only time you won't receive anesthesia is when we crown your tooth after a root canal because it's not necessary then.
Once this anesthesia wears off, your tooth may be temporarily sensitive, or your gums around it could be somewhat sore. This pain is very minimal and short-lived though.
This entire process will require two separate appointments that range from 30-60 minutes in length. During your first appointment, we must prepare your tooth by shaping it then take an impression of the area so we can make your crown for you. We'll also give you a temporary crown to wear until your permanent one arrives. The second appointment is when you'll receive this permanent crown.
The Lifespan of Dental Crowns
There are two types of crowns. The first is the temporary crown that will only last long enough to get your permanent crown back from the dental laboratory. Once we get it back and fit it in your mouth, you'll have what's known as a permanent crown. This crown is very strong and aesthetically pleasing. It'll easily withstand the normal forces that are associated with chewing food.
Even if it does pull away from your tooth for some reason, it's as simple as having us re-cement it in your mouth. With this in mind, you should know that it can last for as many as 5 years as long as it's properly cared for. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft bristled toothbrush, flossing each day and using mouthwash. It's also important to come into our office for a routine checkup every 6 months.
When you feel yourself in need of a crown, give Riverstone Family Dentistry a call at (360) 326-1443. With all the years of experience, we have fitting patients with crowns we guarantee that we can successfully help you too. |
Hours
(360) 326-1443 
Joseph Kim, DDS