The enamel layer on each of your teeth is composed of a densely packed structure of microscopic mineral crystals. This is what makes your teeth hard enough to bite things off and chew tough foods. As strong as your teeth are there are things that can cause fractures. While it might be as traumatic as a blow to the face, there are also times when something as simple as grinding your teeth can cause a significant fracture in the enamel layer of one or more teeth.
Even if the damage doesn’t penetrate the sensitive internal structures of the tooth, you will still need to have it restored. In time the damaged area can invite bacteria to set in and form a new area of decay. Considering the enamel in the area is already shallow and compromised, this could lead to even more serious complications down the road.
To rectify a problem like this your Lewis Family Dentistry dentist will often recommend replacing all of the tooth enamel with a crown made from either porcelain, gold or base metal alloys.
First, the dentist will form an abutment out of the core of the tooth, by removing all of the enamel with a drill. This post-like structure will later serve to anchor the crown in your mouth.
They will then make a detailed impression of the area. This will be sent to a dental lab, where your new crown is custom made. A temporary crown is then secured over the abutment to keep it safe, while you await completion of your crown.
Once the dental lab has finished your new crown, Lewis Family Dentistry will call you in for a brief follow up appointment. The temporary crown is removed and your new permanent crown is cemented in place.
If you have one or more teeth suffering with fractures, you should call Lewis Family Dentistry’s Fayetteville, North Carolina clinic at 910.488.0518 to have it examined and restored.