03 Nov Using a Crown to Restore a Tooth with a Missing Filling

It’s a quite common practice for Dr. Audrey Kemp to use a filling to repair a small to medium sized area of tooth decay. Even though these fillings are meant to last for a long time, there are a few things that can cause them to fail or fall out. This might be related to chips and fractures in the enamel or it might simply happen due to the natural processes of bacteria in your mouth weakening the cement that holds the filling in place. In general, old and large fillings are more likely to be lost than small, new fillings.

Sometimes when a large filling is lost there might not be enough strong enamel remaining for a replacement filling. When this happens Dr. Audrey Kemp often recommends the tooth be restored with a crown.

Before starting the process of fitting the tooth for a crown, Dr. Audrey Kemp will examine the tooth, to assess the overall health and address any potential tooth decay. If damage or decay extends beyond the enamel layer, she might need to perform a root canal to provide enough healthy structure to anchor a crown.

Dr. Audrey Kemp will then create an abutment by removing the bulk of the enamel layer, leaving behind a small amount to protect the pulp of the tooth. Later, this abutment, will anchor your new crown.

Dr. Audrey Kemp will then create an impression of the abutment and surrounding teeth. This is sent to a dental lab, where your new permanent crown is made. A temporary crown is placed over the abutment to keep it safe, while you wait for the dental lab to complete your new crown.

When your new crown is ready Dr. Audrey Kemp will call you in for a brief follow up appointment. The temporary crown will be removed and your new permanent crown is cemented in place.

If you have a tooth that has recently lost a filling, you should call Dr. Audrey Kemp as soon as possible at 919-680-3531 to schedule an appointment.