Here at our office, Dr. Blake Lawlor often uses fillings to repair chips and small cavities. While these fillings are made from materials that will not be susceptible to tooth decay, the bacteria in your mouth can gradually affect the bond between the tooth enamel and the filling itself. This is even more likely to occur if you’ve struggled to maintain good oral hygiene or if you procrastinate your twice-annual dental checkup.
If bacteria gain access to the seam where the filling meets the otherwise healthy enamel, it could cause a new cavity. This could lead to heightened sensitivity, a change in the tooth’s exterior texture or a graying shade in the tooth.
If the filling was large or there is new decay, there might not be enough strong and healthy enamel remaining for your dentist to apply a new filling. One of the most effective ways to treat a problem like this is to replace all of the tooth enamel with a dental crown
Your dentist will start by examining the tooth and taking some X-rays. It’s important to make sure the sensitive internal structures of the tooth are healthy. If new decay has compromised the pulp or root of the tooth, they might need to perform a root canal.
Your dentist will then numb the area with Novocain before using a drill to remove all remaining tooth enamel. This leaves behind a small post called an abutment, which will eventually anchor your new crown.
Our team will make a detailed impression of the abutment and a temporary crown will be cemented over it. The impression will then be sent to our professional dental lab where your new crown will be produced.
We will call you to schedule the second appointment when your new crown is ready. The temporary crown will be removed and your new crown will be cemented into place.
If you have a tooth suffering from a bad filling and you’re interested in knowing more about a dental crown in Wichita, Kansas, you should call 316-684-5511 to seek timely treatment at our office.