RESTORATIONS
Dental Crowns & Caps
A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Who needs Dental Crowns?
Teeth can become damaged in many ways. Whether it’s through decay, an injury, or simply wearing down over time, your teeth may lose their shape and size. Dental crowns are caps that fit over a tooth, covering the visible portion to protect it and restore the proper shape. They may be made from several different materials, including metal and porcelain.
Types of Dental Crowns
The materials that may be used for your dental crowns include:
- Porcelain crowns
- Ceramic crowns
- Zirconia crowns
- Metal or metallic crowns
- Composite resin crowns
- A combination of materials
Temporary Crowns
While waiting to have a permanent dental crowns made, you may receive a temporary crown. Because it is intended for a short period of time, the adhesive on the temporary crowns won’t be as strong as a permanent one, allowing for it to be easily removed once the permanent crown is ready.
3/4 Dental Crowns
Sometimes a full dental crown is not necessary. In cases such as this, your dentist may recommend an onlay, or 3/4 crown, which doesn’t cover the full tooth. These may be appropriate if you still have a solid tooth structure.
Dental Crowns Calgary
Who Needs a Dental Crown?
You may need a dental crown for several reasons, such as:
- Protection for a weak or cracked tooth to keep it from breaking
- Restoring a tooth that is worn down
- Covering a tooth that has a large filling and little original tooth remaining
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering a dental implant
- Protecting a tooth that had a root canal
- Tooth has a root canal
- Cosmetic Enhancement
How Long Will a Dental Crowns Last?
Typically, a dental crown can last from 5 to 15 years, depending on the durability, use, and amount of care given. Certain activities and habits can reduce their lifespan, such as biting your nails, grinding or clenching your teeth, or using your teeth to open packaging.
What does getting a crown involve?
A dental crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
Caring For Dental Crowns
To ensure that your crowns lasts as long as possible, it’s important to take proper care of it. Some ways to ensure it lasts longer, while also maintaining your overall dental health include:
- Brushing Teeth
You should be brushing twice per day. You may want to try a toothpaste for sensitive teeth if your crown or the surrounding teeth are sensitive to heat or cold. - Flossing
Often overlooked, flossing is an important part of your oral care. - Avoid Hard Foods
If you have a habit of chewing ice or hard foods, you could cause a crack in your crown, especially the less durable kinds, such as porcelain. - A Nightguard
If you grind or clench your teeth in your sleep, speak to your dentist about a nightguard to protect against damage.
To find out if dental crowns are right for you, contact us for an appointment. We will be happy to answer all your questions.
