The enamel layer of your teeth is very hard and extremely durable, yet there are times when a fall or blow to the face can actually crack one of your teeth. This is even more likely if you participate in contact sports without the protection of a mouth guard.
If a cracked tooth is sensitive, or you experience persistent or sharp pain, it usually means that the fracture has penetrated the pulp or root of the tooth. This often requires Dr. Sudi Rafieian to perform a root canal, before the tooth can be fitted for a crown. Even if the cracked tooth doesn’t give you pain, they will likely recommend repairing the tooth by installing a crown.
A crown basically replaces the entire enamel layer of a tooth. The material they suggests for your crown will be dictated by the tooth’s primary function and its prevalence in your smile.
The process starts by removing all of the tooth enamel with a drill. This forms an abutment out of the core structures of the tooth. Later this abutment will serve as the anchor for your permanent crown.
Dr. Sudi Rafieian will then create a detailed impression of the abutment and all other relevant teeth. A temporary crown is placed over the abutment and the impression is sent off to a dental lab where your crown will be made.
Dr. Sudi Rafieian will call you back in when your permanent crown is ready. During this appointment, they will remove the temporary crown and cement your permanent crown in place.
If you have a chipped, fractured or cracked tooth, you should call Dr. Sudi Rafieian’s office in Chicago, Illinois at 312-642-5107 to explore your treatment and restoration options.