CROWN-FULL CAST PREDOMINANTLY BASE METAL (D2791)

Name of the Procedure:

Full Cast Crown Predominantly Base Metal Common name(s): Full Metal Crown, Dental Crown

Summary

A full cast crown predominantly made from base metal is a type of dental restoration used to cover and protect a damaged or decayed tooth. Crafted from durable metals, this crown offers a robust and long-lasting solution to maintain tooth functionality and appearance.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the following:

• Severely decayed or damaged teeth
• Protection of a tooth after root canal treatment
• Restoration of worn-down or broken teeth

The goal is to restore tooth function, prevent further decay, and improve the tooth's appearance and strength.

Indications

• Extensive tooth decay that cannot be managed with a filling
• Broken or cracked teeth needing reinforcement
• Post-root canal therapy for tooth protection
• Restoration for teeth with large fillings that deteriorate over time

Preparation

• Oral examination and diagnostic X-rays
• Removal of any existing decay or old restorations
• Tooth preparation for crown fitting
• Impressions of the affected tooth and surrounding area
• Temporary crown placement while the permanent crown is fabricated

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected area.
2. Tooth Preparation: The dentist removes decay and shapes the tooth to fit the crown.
3. Impression Making: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a model for the crown.
4. Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made in a dental lab.
5. Crown Fitting: In a subsequent visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place.

Tools and equipment include dental drills, impression materials, and cementing agents. Anesthesia involves local numbing agents.

Duration

The initial procedure usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. Placement of the permanent crown in a follow-up visit takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a dental office or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• General Dentist or Prosthodontist
• Dental Assistant

Risks and Complications

• Sensitivity to hot and cold in the crowned tooth
• Risk of infection if underlying decay was not fully removed
• Possible allergic reaction to base metals
• Rare risks include crown misfit or fracture

Benefits

• Restoration of normal chewing function
• Protection of tooth from further decay or damage
• Longevity and durability of the restoration
• Improved appearance of the tooth

Benefits are usually evident immediately after final crown placement.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes avoiding hard or sticky foods initially
• Maintaining oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
• Temporary sensitivity, which should subside within days
• Follow-up appointment to check for fit and bite adjustment

Alternatives

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal crown: More aesthetic but can wear down adjacent teeth
• Zirconia or all-ceramic crowns: More aesthetic solution but may be less durable in cases of heavy biting
• Dental fillings or onlays: Less invasive but may not offer the same durability

Patient Experience

Patients might experience some discomfort during the numbing process and sensitivity after the procedure. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers, and comfort measures include bite adjustments and temporary crown protections until the permanent crown is in place.