Dental Crowns in Federal Way WA
Teeth may be damaged in any number of different ways. Some, like tooth decay, may be an unfortunate result of neglect. Others, like chipped teeth, can result from accidents and other mishaps. Still, others may be a necessary side-effect of treatment, such as the vulnerability of certain teeth after a root canal procedure.
However, modern dentistry is now at a stage where even problems like this don’t have to be things that people need to accept. There are plenty of solutions to help people with damaged teeth, and in the case of a single tooth, that solution is the dental crown.
A dental crown in Federal Way WA is like a “cap” that is fixed to a single tooth. Dental crowns can be the solution to many issues. These include weakened teeth due to cavities, chipped teeth, or discoloration from illness or infection. The procedure usually involves cementing the crown into place, making it a permanent fixture that shouldn’t require any additional maintenance aside from good oral hygiene.
What Are Dental Crowns (and Bridges) in Federal Way WA?
A dental crown is a tooth-colored cap placed over the impaired tooth, right to the gum line. They help impart strength and durability to teeth that have been severely weakened or teeth that are cracked or treated with root canal treatments.
A dental bridge is a restorative device that can replace missing teeth. By placing crowns on the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, a prosthetic tooth can be held in position spanning the gap.
When To Get A Dental Crown
Your Marine Hills Dentistry dentist may recommend a dental crown for you if you have:
- A tooth that is poorly shaped or discolored compared to the rest of your teeth
- A tooth that has been chipped, cracked, or otherwise physically damaged
- A weakened tooth that is in danger of future chipping or cracking
- A tooth that was part of a root canal procedure and needs protection now that it is exposed
- A tooth badly affected by tooth decay to the point that a dental filling is no longer suitable
- A missing tooth that needs replacement
- A tooth that is going to be part of a dental bridge process
The Procedure for Crowns and Bridges
It takes at least two appointments to fit your new crown or bridge, as the restoration needs to be custom-fabricated at our dental laboratory. These treatments are performed under local anesthesia to numb feelings of pain.
During your first appointment, Dr. Dennis Hahn will give you a comprehensive oral health examination to ensure your mouth is free from cavities or gum infections. If any problems are identified, they will need to be treated on a priority basis.
If you must have a crown fitted, we will first prepare the tooth by reducing its size. In the case of dental bridges, we will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap for the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Then, impressions and digital images of your mouth are taken that will be used to construct your crown. Meanwhile, we will secure a temporary crown or bridge to protect the prepared teeth until your next visit. The final restorations are attached to your teeth after making the necessary adjustments.
What Is the Recovery Time?
- You should be able to resume your daily routine on the same day that your crown or bridge is fitted.
- You will need to take extra care when eating and drinking for the first few days, as the treated tooth may feel more sensitive.
- Avoid eating too hard or sticky foods.
Whether a dental crown is right for you is up to you and your dentist to decide. Stop in for a comprehensive dental exam and more information contact our team at Marine Hills Dentistry in Federal Way WA today.
Marine Hills Dentistry
1500 S Dash Point Rd
Federal Way WA 98003
(253) 839-2800
OFFICE HOURS
Monday
9:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday
8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday
8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday
7:00am - 3:00pm
Friday
Closed
Saturday & Sunday
Closed