Everything you should know about dental crown treatment

Our dental clinic offers dental crown treatment, also known as dental caps. These are like protective covers for teeth that are damaged or weakened. They’re versatile and can help restore dental health and improve smiles. Along with dental crowns, we provide services like tooth reshaping to give you the best dental care possible. Let’s delve into the various aspects of dental crowns and why they are essential for maintaining oral well-being.

Types of Dental Crowns

• Ceramic Crowns: Ceramic crowns, made from porcelain-based materials, provide a natural tooth-like appearance, making them an ideal choice for visible teeth.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These crowns mix the toughness of metal with the lovely look of porcelain. They work well for both front and back teeth.
• Gold Alloy Crowns: Known for their durability and longevity, gold alloy crowns are often recommended for posterior teeth.
• Base Metal Alloy Crowns: These crowns are crafted from non-noble metals, offering strength and resistance to corrosion, making them a cost-effective option.

Reasons for Dental Crown Treatment

• Protection of Weak Teeth: Dental crowns offer support and protection to weak or compromised teeth, preventing further damage or fracture.
• Restoration of Broken or Worn-Down Teeth: Crowns are great for fixing teeth that are significantly damaged or worn out. They help bring back the strength and usefulness of these teeth.
• Cosmetic Improvement: Beyond functionality, dental crowns enhance the appearance of teeth, improving symmetry, shape, and color.
• Support for Dental Bridges: Crowns serve as anchors for dental bridges, replacing missing teeth and restoring proper bite alignment.

Procedure for Getting Dental Crowns

• Initial Consultation and Examination: During your first appointment with your St. Catharines dentist, they will carefully examine your dental health to decide whether a crown treatment is necessary.
• Tooth Preparation: The tooth designated for the crown is adjusted to suit the structure of the crown that will be placed on it.
• Impressions and Temporary Crown Placement: Molds of the prepared tooth are created to craft a personalized crown, with a temporary crown installed to safeguard the tooth.
• Fabrication of Permanent Crown: Skilled technicians craft a permanent crown based on the impressions, ensuring proper fit and aesthetics.
• Final Fitting and Cementation: After the permanent crown has been crafted, it is carefully placed onto the prepared tooth and firmly attached. This process ensures that the tooth regains its normal function and looks natural.

Recovery and Aftercare

• Managing Discomfort: It’s normal to experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after crown placement, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Temporary Crown Care: Avoid chewing sticky or hard foods on the side with the temporary crown to prevent dislodgement or damage.
• Long-Term Maintenance: Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, to prolong the lifespan of your crown.

Potential Risks and Complications

• Tooth Sensitivity: After getting a dental crown, some people might feel their teeth being sensitive to hot or cold things for a little while. But don’t worry; this sensitivity usually goes away as time passes.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to crown materials may occur, necessitating prompt evaluation and replacement.
• Crown Failure: In rare cases, crowns may become loose or dislodged due to inadequate bonding or underlying dental issues, requiring prompt attention from your dentist.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

• Factors Influencing Cost: The price of dental crown therapy fluctuates based on variables like the crown type, materials employed, and intricacy of the procedure.
• Insurance Considerations: Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crown treatment, but coverage specifics may vary, so it’s essential to check with your provider.

Alternatives to Dental Crown Treatment

• Dental Fillings: Dental fillings may be a suitable alternative to crowns for minor tooth decay or damage, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.
• Inlays and Onlays: These indirect restorations repair moderately damaged teeth, providing a conservative yet durable solution.
• Veneers: Veneers are delicate coverings made of porcelain or composite resin that are affixed to the front of teeth to enhance aesthetics, especially for addressing minor flaws.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns can last 5 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.

• Are dental crowns painful?

Getting a dental crown is typically not sad because it’s done with the help of local anesthesia, which numbs the area. However, some people might feel discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure.

• Can Dental Crowns Be Whitened?

Dental crowns cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening methods, so discussing whitening options with your dentist is essential.

• Can Dental Crowns Fall Off?

While uncommon, dental crowns may become loose or fall off if not properly bonded or if there is underlying decay or damage to the tooth structure.

• Are There Any Dietary Restrictions with Dental Crowns?

While dental crowns are strong and durable, avoiding chewing on complex objects or sticky foods is advisable to prevent damage to the crown or underlying tooth.

Dental crown treatment offers a versatile solution for addressing various dental concerns, from protecting weakened teeth to enhancing smiles. At Monarch Dentistry – St. Catharines, our team is committed to providing personalized care and restoring dental health with quality crown treatment. If you’re considering dental crowns or have any questions, we encourage you to consult our experienced dentists for expert guidance and care. Your smile deserves the best; we’re here to help you achieve it.