When making a crown or denture, the dentist usually takes an impression and pours it into a cast. An accurate cast is the foundation for a restoration that fits well and feels comfortable.
- A dental cast is a copy of the teeth and gums, made from an impression for making restorations.
- A good impression helps crowns and dentures fit well, match the bite and need fewer adjustments.
- Tell the dentist if you often gag during impressions.
- While waiting for the restoration, the shaped tooth is protected with a temporary crown.
A dental cast is a copy of your teeth and gums, made from the impression taken in your mouth. The technician uses it to make crowns, bridges or dentures. The more accurate the cast, the more the restoration will fit well, feel comfortable and need fewer adjustments.
How is a cast made?
- The dentist takes an impression with a tray holding a soft material, or with a digital scan if the clinic has the equipment.
- The impression is poured in plaster or printed to make a cast.
- The technician compares the upper and lower casts to work out the bite.
- The restoration is made on the cast and then tried in the mouth.
Why does a good impression matter?
- A poor impression leaves a crown or denture with gaps, high spots or a wrong bite.
- An unclear margin around the tooth makes the restoration trap food and can inflame the gum.
- Retaking an impression costs extra time and effort.
How to prepare before an impression
- Tell the dentist if you often gag during impressions, see feeling nauseous during dental impressions.
- Eat lightly before the visit and do not go too hungry or too full.
- Breathe slowly through the nose and keep the tray still until the material sets.
After the impression
While the crown is being made, you are usually given a temporary crown to protect the shaped tooth, see what a temporary crown is. For removable dentures, see caring for removable dentures and whether porcelain crowns harm teeth.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first, so the dentist can advise on a suitable restoration.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dental cast?
A copy of the teeth and gums, made from an impression, which the technician uses to make crowns, bridges or dentures.
Why is a good impression important?
It helps the restoration fit well, match the bite, trap less food and need fewer adjustments.
What if I gag during impressions?
Tell the dentist beforehand, breathe slowly through the nose and let the dentist split the steps or choose a suitable tray.