The Role That A Dental Crown Lab Plays In Replacing A Tooth

Dental crown laboratories are responsible for producing the caps that cover damaged teeth and improve their appearance and function. When a dentist chooses to install a dental crown on a patient's tooth, they must work closely with a dental crown laboratory to produce the best possible results.

The Purpose of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns restore and protect damaged or decayed teeth. They are typically made of porcelain or ceramic and fit over the top of the tooth, providing a strong and durable seal to prevent further damage or decay. Crowns can also improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen or discolored. 

How the Process Begins

The first step is for a patient to visit the dentist. They will examine the patient's teeth and determine if a crown is necessary. If so, they will take impressions of the teeth to create a mold. They then send this mold to a dental crown laboratory, where they will make the actual crown. 

Shaping the Crown

The first step in the laboratory is to create a model of your tooth using the mold, usually done by placing a special material in the mouth that hardens to mold the tooth. This model allows the dental technician to create a perfect crown over your tooth. They will use this model to shape the crown and ensure it matches the surrounding teeth's size, shape, and color. 

Creating the Final Product

Once they have shaped the crown, it is time to create the final product. The technician will use various materials to make the crown, including porcelain, metal, and ceramic. Each material has advantages and disadvantages so the technician will choose the best one for your case. 

Preparing the Crown for the Patient

After they have created the crown, they send it back to your dentist's office. At this point, your dentist will clean and prepare your tooth for the crown. They will then place the crown over your tooth and secure it with a special adhesive. Installing the dental crown is just as important as its initial creation because a crown not put in place correctly will not remain secure in the patient's mouth.

While making a dental crown may seem complex, it is a fairly routine procedure. Dental crown laboratories have been creating these restorations for decades, and their expertise ensures that the patient receives a crown that fits perfectly and looks great.  

For more info, contact a local dental crown lab.