As hard as tooth enamel is, it is not impervious to the forces that can be applied by an accidental fall or the pressures exerted by grinding your teeth. When a large chip or fracture occurs, it might not cause pain, but it can still lead to future complications. The affected area can serve as a harbor for bacteria to create a new cavity. Since some of the enamel layer’s protection has been lost, any decay that forms can quickly damage the critical interior of the tooth.
To prevent further complications H.T. Macon Sapp, DDS’s team of dentists will often recommend restoring a fractured tooth with a crown.
A crown effectively restores the full function and appearance of the enamel layer of the tooth with an. artificial material like gold, base metals or porcelain. The material we recommend for your crown will be influenced by the tooth’s primary function in your mouth and prevalence it is in your smile.
First, your dentist will use a drill to remove the majority of the enamel layer of the tooth thus forming an abutment. An impression is then made of the abutment and any other relevant teeth. This is sent to a dental lab where your permanent crown is made.
A member of our staff will call you to schedule a second appointment, once the dental lab has completed your crown. This appointment will be brief, as the dentist simply removes the temporary crown and cements your new crown in place.
If have a fractured, you should call H.T. Macon Sapp, DDS’s office in Durham, North Carolina at 919-489-9171 to schedule an appointment to have it addressed.