If you are having a tooth restored after damage or decay, you will likely have a crown placed to help strengthen and protect the tooth. Our Fort St. John dentists talk about dental crowns, the different types that may be used and when your dentist may recommend having one.
Dental Crowns For Added Protection
A dental crown is a hollow cap that is placed over a tooth, commonly after fillings, to help strengthen the tooth and provide a healthy appearance. The primary purpose of this dental crown is to help prevent any further damage or decay to your natural tooth. Dental crowns are also used when a patient is looking to completely change the cosmetic appearance of the tooth.
Are there different types of dental crowns?
Did you know that there are a number of different materials that dental crowns can be made of? The choice of material is usually based on the location of the crown as well as the patient's budget. The most commonly used materials for dental crowns include:
Porcelain
Porcelain dental crowns are created to closely match the colour of your teeth offering a natural appearance that will blend in with your other teeth. They are, however, more prone to chipping and wear than other materials. As a result, they are only used in a small percentage of cases to replace teeth.
Composite
Composite crowns are another material that closely resembles natural teeth in appearance while offering an extra amount of resistance. While they may not wear down as quickly as porcelain, they may experience chips and stains.
Metal or Gold
Dental crowns are made of metal (usually gold) and are created to be a durable option with added strength compared to other materials. They should not wear down or stain like composite crowns, but they are not the most natural looking which means that they are not commonly used on the front teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal
These dental crowns typically have the most natural appearance and offer the best of both worlds when it comes to restoration. While they should be chip and stain-resistant, the metal may show through due to their placement and construction.
What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown
You will need to visit our office two times to have the dental crown procedure completed. In order to keep you comfortable during your appointments, the dentist will use general anesthesia.
During your first visit, the dentist will file down the affected tooth. They will also take an impression of this tooth which will be used to make the crown. While you are waiting for your new crown your dentist can provide you with a temporary one.
During your second visit, the dental crown will be placed on your tooth. Your dentist will take the time to ensure that this crown fits properly and adheres well.
In what situation would a crown be needed?
While dental crowns are quite common they are not suitable for every person or situation. Your dentist will take your issues and needs into consideration when determining which treatment option is right for you. However, the following issues are fairly common and almost always necessitate the use of a dental crown.
Common Reasons a Dental Crown Would Be Needed
- Large cavities that can't be repaired with a dental filling
- To cover a tooth that has had a root canal
- To prevent weakened teeth from breaking
- To hold together a cracked tooth
- To restore a broken tooth
- To provide support to a dental bridge
- To conceal misshapen teeth
- To cover dental implants
- To disguise discoloured teeth that won't respond to teeth whitening