Cracked a Crown? We Can Replace It in One Office Visit

Dental crowns can correct several dental issues, ranging from a cracked or chipped tooth to a tooth weakened by multiple dental procedures. Crowns are also the anchoring structures for dental bridgework and the final step in a root canal procedure. 

If your crown develops a crack, John T. Zaffer, DDS, can replace it in just one visit. At his Glen Ellyn, Illinois, office, Dr. Zaffer uses CEREC® technology to craft beautiful and strong dental crowns in the office while you wait. 

Here’s an overview of what to expect:

Step One: Remove the existing crown

When you arrive for your visit, Dr. Zaffer performs a quick exam to determine the extent of the damage. He then removes your existing crown to reveal your natural tooth tissue. Numbing medication can reduce sensations during this part of the process. 

Step Two: Prepare your natural tooth

Dr. Zaffer carefully checks your underlying tooth tissue for signs of damage or decay. He removes decayed tooth tissue if needed to prepare the tooth for a new crown. A set of impressions or imaging gives the fabrication system the necessary information to create your custom crown.

Step Three: Create the replacement crown

Once your tooth is prepared, you’ll relax and wait as the dental team creates your new crown. Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC) technology allows us to fashion high-quality dental crowns in our office. 

Step Four: Check for appearance and fit

Once your new crown is ready, Dr. Zaffer checks it to ensure it fits properly over your prepared tooth and provides a natural-looking restoration. Dental crowns are created to blend seamlessly into your smile. 

Step Five: Secure the new crown in place

The final step is attaching the new crown to your prepared tooth. Dr. Zaffer uses a special type of dental cement to affix your crown. This part of the process takes just a few moments. You’ll walk out with your smile and bite fully restored. Minimal soreness or sensitivity is normal immediately after your visit.

Don’t delay scheduling a restoration appointment

Once a dental crown is cracked, there’s a possibility of bacteria reaching the underlying tooth tissue. It’s a perfect opportunity for bacteria to thrive and for decay to develop, so having your crown repaired should be a top priority.

The entire process can be completed in one office visit. The process is quick and painless, and you only have to set aside a few hours of your day. As you wait for your new crown, you can always catch up on email, read, or just take some time to relax and recharge. 

If you experience a cracked or otherwise damaged crown, contact the John T. Zaffer, DDS, office right away to schedule a visit. You can book an appointment online anytime or call our office during business hours.