You’ve heard of dental crowns, perhaps ‘caps’-a mainly US term. But what are they and why do we sometimes recommend them?
!A crown is really the last resort for a tooth that has done a lot of work for you over the years. Unless you’ve had an accident, crowns are only used after a series of small fillings and other types of dental restorations have failed. When we say ‘Failure’, we mean either a new cavity or a fracture or sometimes both.
Crown cover or ‘cap’ a tooth that has been subject to wear and tear and a lot of damage. Note too, that crowns are also used on top of dental implants to finish them off and prepare the implant for normal function-like eating, talking and smiling.
Crowns are used to:
– Protect a week tooth from cracking or breaking
– Fix a tooth that has fractured
– Restore a dental implant
– Protect a tooth after a root canal treatment
– Change the colour of a tooth which has become discoloured over time
– Improve the overall shape of a tooth to aid with better biting or chewing
If you were advised that you a crown was an option, there are two main ways they are provided. The type of crown that’s best for you will vary depending on…you!
These days, colours (or ‘shades’) and materials are available for a variety of different uses.
The first way is the traditional method where a skilled dental ceramist uses a mould of the tooth to create a life-like ceramic version of a natural tooth.
This is best for front teeth where we want seamless blending of shapes and colours.
The second way is ‘in-house’, a more modern method of crown construction that takes place literally while-you-wait. We use CADCAM software and precise 3D milling to produce your crown on the spot. This has the advantage of only one lot of local anaesthetic and no return visit. It also produces absolutely beautiful results.
Porcelain/ceramic crowns are matched in every to your existing teeth to create a natural look. We still use materials such as gold alloys for strength and added durability, but this is a very individual choice that we discuss thoroughly with you before any treatment is commenced.
Crowns last a long time, and you can make sure they last as long as possible by having regular maintenance checks. We recommend visiting us twice a year and in between times looking after your crowns with thorough brushing and effective flossing at least twice a day.
At Moss Vale Dental we have more than 35 years of experience in providing crowns for lots of teeth. If you have a question or would like to book an appointment, call our professional and understanding team at Moss Vale Dental on 4869 3111 or email help@MossValeDental.com.au.
Next time we’ll discuss the modern alternative to having a crown, and the three reasons you might choose that option.
