Who Needs Dental Crowns?
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is placed over a tooth’s root to restore function and aesthetics. Crowns can be made of many materials, including gold, porcelain, or composite resin. They are usually highly customized to the specific patient, tooth type, and bite location. The crown sits on the tooth, protecting the vulnerable root from further decay or damage. Crowns are recommended as a treatment option when a tooth is severely broken or decayed. They can also be used when you need to replace a missing tooth.
Who Needs Dental Crowns?
If your dentist detects signs that your teeth may be at risk of additional decay or fracture, he may suggest placing a crown for added protection and strength. If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, crowns can also help prevent further bone and tissue loss in response to the bacteria in your gums. Below are some common situations that may require a dental crown in Hamilton, ON:
- Tooth Decay
When a tooth has been severely decayed, the entire tooth must sometimes be removed and replaced with an artificial tooth or a dental bridge.
- Fractured Tooth
If your tooth has been chipped or broken, your dentist may recommend placing a crown. This will protect the root of the tooth and prevent further damage.
- Unusual Shape
If your tooth’s shape makes it difficult to place a traditional filling, your dentist may recommend a crown instead.
- Large Fillings
If you have a large filling or a crown that needs to be replaced, your dentist may recommend placing a crown to restore the tooth’s shape and strength.
When Should You Get a Dental Crown?
If your tooth is badly damaged and you have a lot of pain or swelling, your dentist may recommend getting a tooth cap as soon as possible. However, if your tooth is only mildly broken or decayed, you may be able to wait until your next cleaning to get it treated. If a tooth has a large filling and is sensitive to heat, that’s a bad sign, and you should probably get a crown. If a tooth has a large filling and your bite feels uneven, that’s also a sign that you need a crown.
How Are Dental Crowns Made?
The procedure for making a tooth crown will vary based on your situation and the materials used, but generally, the process will include impressions, an assessment, and fabrication. The impression is sent to a laboratory, where a dental technician will use it to make a cast on your teeth.
The crown is fabricated out of a material that mimics your healthy tooth.
What are the Pros of Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns offer numerous pros, and they include:
- Protect against further damage: If a tooth is decayed or broken in multiple places, a crown will protect it from further damage. It will hold the damaged tooth together and prevent it from moving out of place.
- Prevent further loss of teeth: If you have a decaying tooth, it can eventually break and fall out. A dental crown can prevent this and keep your teeth where they belong.
- Preserve the shape of your teeth: If you have a decayed tooth, the dentist may recommend removing a portion of it to access the decay and clean it out. If you can’t remove this portion of the tooth, the dentist may recommend a crown. A dental crown will keep the decayed tooth portion in place, so it doesn’t also fall out.
- Look and feel natural: Dental crowns are custom-made for each patient and tooth type, so they usually look and feel very natural.
What are the Cons of Dental Crowns?
These restorations are effective, but they have a few drawbacks, like the potential for sensitivity. Since dental crowns cover the entire tooth surface, there is a chance that you may experience sensitivity to certain foods and beverages. If this happens, your dentist may recommend using sensitive toothpaste, avoiding hot or cold beverages, and wearing a mouth guard while sleeping.
Furthermore, the restorations can chip, discolor, and crack if not cared for properly.
Is Getting a Dental Crown Right for You?
Tooth decay and damage can be devastating, especially if you’ve struggled with them for a long time. Fortunately, dental crowns can help you repair broken teeth and prevent them from getting worse.
Visit Jackson Square Dental Centre for more information about dental crowns and what you can expect.