Those who have ever visited a dentist due to a tooth problem will usually hear the term dental crown. But what exactly is a dental crown? And why do people need it? In this blog, we will explain all you need to know about dental crowns to help you make an informed decision about dental treatment.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap like a protective cover for a damaged or weakened tooth. It is moulded just like your real tooth and placed over the top of it. A dentist will use crowns to protect, restore and strengthen broken, worn, or even decayed teeth that are too damaged to be filled.
Dental crowns are made of different materials. They look and feel like real teeth, so you can chew and smile confidently. A crown also protects the tooth from further damage to keep your oral health intact.
When a dentist recommends dental crowns in Winnipeg it means the tooth needs extra protection to stay strong and healthy.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are different types of dental crowns. Your dentist will suggest the most suitable one based on your oral needs. Here are the common types:
- Porcelain Crowns: These look very natural and match the colour of your teeth. They are a good choice for front teeth.
- Metal Crowns: Produced with strong metals like gold or stainless steel. Very long-lasting but somewhat visible.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM): This dental crown has a combination of two metals that is metal and porcelain. Metal for its strength and porcelain for its natural look.
- Ceramic Crowns: These crowns are non-metal. They are for patients who have allergies to metals as well as these crowns look just like the natural tooth.
- Resin Crowns: These crowns can be less expensive but they may wear faster than the rest.
Your dentist will consider:
- Where your mouth holds the crown.
- How much chewing force must the crown withstand?
- Your budget and preferences.
Each type of crown has its benefits. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular because they blend in well with your other teeth.
Benefits Of Dental Crowns
There are many good reasons to get a crown if you need one. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Strength: Crowns help protect weak teeth and make them stronger.
- Appearance: They can improve the look of a damaged or discoloured tooth.
- Functionality: Crowns restore your ability to chew and bite properly.
- Longevity: Crowns may survive several years, even decades if properly maintained!
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Your dentist may suggest a dental crown for many reasons, such as:
- A large cavity that cannot be filled with a filling.
- A cracked or broken tooth.
- To protect a weak tooth.
- After a root canal treatment.
- Replace a lost tooth with a dental implant.
- To enhance the appearance of a tooth that is discoloured or has an uneven shape.
If your tooth is causing discomfort or you notice any cracks, visit your dentist at a dental clinic near you in Winnipeg. A dental crown can save the tooth and keep your smile healthy.
How is a Dental Crown Placed?
Getting a dental crown is a process that usually takes a few visits to the dentist. Let’s break it down step by step.
First Visit
- Exam and X-Ray: The dentist will take a closer look at your tooth and take X-rays to see how healthy it is and if there is any problem under the surface.
- Preparing the Tooth: If the tooth is worthy and can be saved, the dentist will clean it and remove some part of its structure to allow the crown to fit well over it. This keeps the crown fitting well.
- Impressions: The dentist will take a mould or impression of your tooth. This allows them to make a crowning that fits perfectly for you.
- Temporary Crown: A temporary crown will be placed over your tooth by the dentist while waiting for the permanent crown to be prepared.
Second Visit
- Removing the Temporary Crown: When you return, the dentist will take off the temporary crown.
- Fitting the Permanent Crown: The dentist will check if the new crown fits well and matches your bite. If it does, they will put it in place.
- Cementing the Crown: Lastly, the dentist will use a special dental cement to secure the crown to your tooth.
What to Expect After Getting a Crown?
It’s pretty common after receiving a new dental crown to feel just a little different. Keep in mind a few things.
- Mild Discomfort: A few days of mild discomfort or tenderness are to be expected. This is fairly minor and can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications.
- Care and Maintenance: They’re just as important as your own teeth, so look after them the same way you’d look after your own teeth by brushing and flossing them daily.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist will keep you aware of the condition of your crown and oral hygiene as a whole.
How to Care for Your Dental Crown?
To ensure your dental crown lasts a long time, you need to take care of it just like your natural teeth. Follow these tips:
- Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush at least twice a day.
- Floss daily to clean around the crown to remove food particles and prevent gum problems.
- Do not chew hard candies, ice, or other hard objects as they may hurt the crown.
- Schedule regular dental checkups so that the dentist near you can ensure your crown is in good shape as well as in good condition.
- If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist to get a mouth guard.
If your dentist recommends a dental crown, don’t worry—it’s a common and effective treatment that can make a big difference in your oral health.
Protect Your Smile, Restore Your Confidence With Dental Crown Today!
Smiles on Portage is the trusted dental clinic in Winnipeg offering multiple dental services. Our friendly team provides professional care to restore and protect your teeth. So, whether you need a dental crown, a cleaning, or other kinds of dental services, we’re here for you. Contact us to schedule a visit today!