Large Cavities may Need Crowns

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Tooth decay is often caused by the pervasive bacteria in your mouth exploiting textured areas of tooth enamel or enamel that has been weakened by erosion. Sometimes these large cavities can be so big that Dr. David Blake Lawlor, DDS, LLC simply can’t repair them with a basic filling. In a situation like this we might recommend having the entire enamel layer of the tooth restored by a crown.

Having a crown installed on a decayed tooth usually require two separate appointments.

At the beginning of the first appointment your Dr. David Blake Lawlor, DDS, LLC dentist will examine the tooth in questions to determine the extent of the decay. Should the decay extend down into the dentin, pulp or root of the tooth, the dentist might need to perform a root canal to rebuild enough healthy structure to form an abutment.

If the internal structure of the tooth is sound, the dentist will form an abutment by removing the majority of the enamel layer. In time, this abutment will anchor your permanent crown in place.

At the end of the first appointment, the dentist will take an impression of the abutment and surrounding teeth. The impression will be sent to a dental lab, where your crown is made. A hard plastic temporary crown is secured over the abutment to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.

We will call you in for a brief second appointment, when the dental lab has completed your permanent crown. The temporary crown is removed and your new permanent crown is cemented in place.

If you have a tooth with a large cavity or other issues with tooth decay, you should not delay in calling Dr. David Blake Lawlor, DDS, LLC at 316-684-5511 to schedule an appointment.