How Dental Crowns Are Made

Dental crowns are a kind of modern miracle that works to restore function to a tooth and make it look great, all at the same time. Today, custom dental crowns in Orville, OH, are available from your dentist. When you visit your dentist for a crown, one day he’s taking measurements, and the next appointment, the crown is being fitted. But how exactly are dental crowns made?

It Begins With the Exam

It all starts at that first dentist appointment when the dentist examines the tooth and prepares it to receive the dental crown. This involves cleaning the tooth and, often, reshaping it a little bit to have a clean surface and get rid of any lingering decay.

Next, the dentist takes a digital impression of the tooth. The neighboring teeth will also be taken into consideration at this stage. The impression of the tooth essentially serves as the model—or the mold—for the dental crown.

It Goes to the Dental Lab

The information from your dentist now goes to a dental lab. This is where the physical crown is made. Here, dental technicians make custom crowns for various dentists in the area, using the dental impressions sent to them.

First, the dental technician pours a dental stone—a type of gypsum—into the impression, which makes a perfect replica of your tooth. The next part involves precision work, formerly done by hand but now done by computer. A wax mold is sculpted to form the crown, which precisely fits on top of the replica of your tooth. From there, the final crown materials are poured into the mold and treated to harden it. When it’s ready, it’s sent back to your dentist’s office, where you’ll be fitted with your new crown!

If you have more questions about the process of getting a dental crown or are ready to book your appointment, contact your Orrville, OH dentist today!