Essential Questions About Dental Crowns for Seniors: A Guide

Q: Essential Questions About Dental Crowns for Seniors: A Guide

Hello： 1. Silver powder, due to its sufficient hardness, can indeed remain in the original tooth as a foundation. 2. It can be temporarily bonded using a temporary adhesive. 3. It may need to be temporarily bonded for a period of time, and after confirming the

I would like to ask you about orthodontic treatment?

Hello Dr.
Lin, I would like to ask you some questions regarding orthodontic treatment for a 60-year-old patient whose second molar, previously treated with root canal therapy, has broken off significantly and requires a crown.

1.
Should the previously filled silver amalgam be cleaned out before taking the impression?
2.
After placing the crown, there may be issues such as no space between teeth, occlusal interference with opposing teeth, or irritation to the tongue (as referenced in articles #37416, #177049, #180065).
Can we request to use temporary cement first?
3.
Following up on the previous question, if permanent cement is used, will it prevent modifications to the crown, or will adjustments only be possible by grinding the adjacent natural teeth?
Thank you for your response! Lastly, I wish you peace and joy.

Panghuang Wuzuo de Bingren Jiashu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/17

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
Silver powder, due to its sufficient hardness, can indeed remain in the original tooth as a foundation.
2.
It can be temporarily bonded using a temporary adhesive.
3.
It may need to be temporarily bonded for a period of time, and after confirming there are no issues, a permanent bond can be made.

Reply Date: 2023/04/17

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding dental crowns, especially in the context of your situation as a senior patient. Dental crowns can be a vital part of dental restoration, particularly after significant tooth damage or decay, such as in your case with the second molar that has undergone root canal treatment. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Cleaning Old Fillings Before Impressions: Yes, it is essential to clean out any old fillings, especially if they are made of silver amalgam, before taking impressions for the crown. This is because any residual material can affect the fit and seal of the new crown. The dentist will want to ensure that the underlying tooth structure is healthy and free from decay, which could compromise the longevity of the crown.

2. Potential Issues with Crowns: After placing a crown, it is not uncommon to experience issues such as lack of space between teeth, contact with opposing teeth, or irritation to the tongue. These issues can arise from the crown being too high or not fitting properly. You can certainly request the use of temporary cement for the crown initially. This allows for adjustments to be made if you experience discomfort or if the fit is not ideal. Temporary cement can be beneficial as it provides a chance to assess the crown's fit and function before it is permanently bonded.

3. Permanent Cement and Adjustments: If a crown is cemented with permanent adhesive, it can limit the ability to make adjustments later. However, most dentists will ensure that the crown fits well before using permanent cement. If adjustments are needed after the crown is permanently placed, it may involve reshaping the crown or, in some cases, remaking it entirely. Therefore, it is crucial to communicate any discomfort or issues you experience during the fitting process so that your dentist can address them before finalizing the crown.

In addition to these points, it is important to consider the overall health of your gums and surrounding teeth. Regular dental check-ups are essential, especially for seniors, as they can help monitor the condition of your teeth and gums and catch any potential issues early. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day and flossing, is also crucial for the longevity of your dental crowns.

Lastly, if you have any concerns about the procedure or the materials used, do not hesitate to discuss these with your dentist. They can provide you with detailed information about the types of crowns available (such as porcelain, metal, or a combination) and help you make an informed decision based on your specific dental needs and preferences.

I hope this information helps clarify your concerns regarding dental crowns. Please feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance.

Wishing you good health and a smooth dental experience!
Best regards.

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