Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 3/3/2009

Question
Dear Doctor Mark,

Today I received permanent crown on second to the last tooth on bottom. It is porcelain on metal, 3/4 type. At first trial the crown was not fitting easily. My dentist’s help adjusted it a little on the bottom. Then my dentist tried it on before cementing it to the remains of the tooth. I did not touch my upper tooth to the bottom one – there was a space in between when I bit. Then, when it was cemented, the crown stick out so much that they, my dentist and his help, where adjusting it for some time. When I came home I saw that bite adjustment resulted with exposure of metal 1/8 inch in diameter, moreover I see crack/scare in remaining porcelain. I am not happy about the whole outcome. First I am worrying how long that weakened crown will last, and second about cosmetic side of it –when I smile one can see it. After all it is not cheap procedure. On the other side I am no a complainer type. What is typical? Could it be prevented? What can be done about it?

Thank you.


Answer
Dear Dorota,

If the crown was improperly seated on your tooth during the cementation process, it needs to be removed. If the reason for the improper position was poor fit, then the crown needs to be re-made. And if the porcelain is cracked, the crown needs to be re-made as well.

Most people don't like to complain, but if there is something wrong with your crown, then you must complain-- otherwise, you allow yourself to be victimized. It would have been preferable if your dentist would have verified the quality of your crown on his own initiative before he cemented it. The fact that he did not suggests he is either careless or just doesn't care. That doesn't mean that you should let him off the hook.

Go back to your dentist and insist that the job be done right.

Good luck!

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY