How Often is "Build Up" Used for Crowns in Cosmetic Procedures

A build-up is only needed if there is insufficient tooth structure to hold a crown. Generally this is the case if there is significant decay, fracture, or large old fillings. Also, if the tooth has had a root canal. In general about 1/2 to 2/3 of teeth I crown need a build-up. For the most part, crowns being done for cosmetic reasons do not need a build-up because the tooth structure would be mostly intact and sufficient to hold the crown.

In theory, re-crowning 20 teeth can be done in 2 visits about 2-3 weeks apart, if there is a rush to do it. However, this would be an all day event and very exausting for both the doctor and patient. Also, it leaves very little room for error if there are any unforseen issues. When doing this many crowns, you usually want to do a try-in and then send them back to the lab for final modifications and glazing. I feel I can do a much better job when I break it down into smaller sections, otherwise I feel like I'm rushing and very tired by the end of the appointment.

This is a lot of time and money and it is not something you should rush. You want this to last a long time. I prefer to do this  the following way: 1)Prep teeth in two appointments (can be consecutive days). 2)Wait a few days to evaluate the temporaries and make any adjustments. 3)Once patient is happy with looks and feel of temps, then take final impressions. 4)Try-in crowns and make adjustments and send back to lab. 5)Deliver crowns.

This would take a total of 5 appointments in about 6 weeks.

Good luck

Dr. T

A buildup is only neede for a acrown to be placed if there is not enough sound tooth structure to cement a crown to.  Each tooth is different.  If there was significant decay in the tooth, then the odds of a buildup is pretty high.  If the tooth has had root canal treatment there is a possibility a buildup will be needed as well.  Buidups are quite common and often necessary for a crown to be successful

Build ups are often used under crowns. I have used many build ups because I believe they add strength to the tooth that needs a crown. In the past when we used a lot of crowns that were porcelain over a gold or white gold core, the tooth needed a build up so that the crown could be the right thickness and be made with optimal strength.

Now we are using mostly all ceramic crowns, if these teeth were being crowned for the first time, you may not need some or most of the build ups.

If you are re-crowning teeth, I would plan it the same way that this cosmetic dentist did. Once the teeth are inspected with the crowns off, you may not actually need them in all of those teeth.

Often a case like yours with ten top teeth and ten lower teeth can be done quickly. However, the longer I do cosmetic dentistry, the more I am interested in creating amazing results. Your case could be done in as few as two main appointments. 

I often see patients who are traveling in or out of the country or have scheduling concerns. We've found that by creating outstanding temporary crowns you can have a great interim result until the Master Ceramist can incorporate all of the unique personalizations it takes to make your smile exclusively look like you.

When you are making changes to crowns, it's important that you, the cosmetic dentist and the ceramist are all on the same page about what you want better in the new crowns.

While your dental crowns can be made very quickly, my preference would be to take the time to create a fantastic result!