Unfortunately, there are times when a hard fall or blow to the face can crack your tooth’s enamel. If the crack is limited to the enamel layer and the internal structures of the tooth are not threatened, your dentist, Dr. Laurin Cardwell, might recommend replacing the entire enamel layer with a dental crown in Sylva, North Carolina.
Dr. Laurin Cardwell will first want to inspect the tooth to assess the extent of the decay. If the area of decay extends deep down into the internal structures of the tooth, you might need a root canal to restore sufficient tooth structure to mount a crown.
Then, she will form an abutment by removing the majority of the enamel layer. The abutment will eventually anchor your permanent crown into place.
Next, Dr. Laurin Cardwell will take a detailed impression of the abutment and the surrounding teeth. This impression will be sent to a dental lab where your new crown is prepared. The material Dr. Laurin Cardwell recommends using for your crown will be based on the tooth’s location in your mouth and its primary function.
A temporary crown is then secured over the abutment to keep it safe while you wait for the dental lab to complete your new crown.
Dr. Laurin Cardwell will call you into Cardwell Family Dentistry for a brief follow-up appointment once your new crown is ready. During this appointment, the temporary crown will be removed and your new permanent crown will be cemented into place.
If you have a cracked or otherwise damaged tooth, you should call Dr. Laurin Cardwell at 828-631-3567 at your earliest convenience to set up an appointment. Any delay could invite future complications from tooth decay.