How does a dental crown work?
Dental crowns are designed to strengthen and support damaged teeth.
A dental crown is a type of restoration that covers the entire visible part of the tooth. It helps to restore form and function to a damaged or weak tooth and protects the affected tooth from decay, cracks, chips and other damage. Crowns are typically made using porcelain or ceramic material to match the colour of your natural teeth. The process of having a dental crown placed usually takes multiple dental appointments.
Find out how these durable restorations work, and what the treatment process involves…
What types of crowns are available?
Crowns can be made from a number of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, composite resin or metal, or a combination of these materials. Your dentist will let you know which material is most appropriate for your particular needs depending on the location of the affected tooth, how much of your crown will be visible when you smile, and the colour of your surrounding natural teeth.
If you have a preference as to which material you would like your restoration to be made from, be sure to let your dentist know. It is also advisable that you raise any questions or concerns with your dentist when you come in for your initial consultation.
When are crowns used?
Dental crowns are designed to fit over an entire tooth and can help to restore full oral function. They are often recommended in cases where one has a cavity that is too large to be treated with a regular filling.
Dental crowns are also an ideal solution in the case of cracked, weakened or badly worn-down teeth. Your dentist may recommend that you have a dental crown placed if you have been through root canal treatment. Often, teeth are left weak and fragile after a root canal, in which case a dental crown can provide strength and protection from further damage.
What does the process involve?
If you choose to have a traditional crown placed, you will need to see your dentist for at least two appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the relevant tooth and take an impression. A temporary crown will be placed while your permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory.
When your permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove your temporary crown and cement your new crown in place. They will make sure that you are satisfied with the fit and colour of your crown.
Once your permanent crown has been secured in place, it is important that you practice proper oral hygiene habits. This includes careful brushing and daily flossing. It is also advisable that you avoid particularly hard foods, especially if you have chosen to have a porcelain crown placed.
How can we help?
At Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic, we offer a range of restorative dentistry services, including dental crowns. If you have been through root canal surgery and need to strengthen a weakened tooth; have a fractured or cracked tooth or have a large filling that is causing stress on your remaining tooth; we encourage you to come in and see us. We will examine your teeth and let you know if a dental crown is an appropriate solution for you.
The dental crowns that we provide at Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic are designed to look and feel just like natural teeth. They are made from high-quality, durable materials and you can expect them to last for many years.
If you would like to find out more about dental crowns and what they are used for, please have a look here.
We also offer a number of other restorative treatments, including dental bridges, dental implants, and dentures. If you would like to find out more about our full range of services, please have a look here.
To make an appointment, please get in touch here or give us a call on (03) 5975 5944. We look forward to welcoming you to the practice.