Why does my dentist recommend a dental crown for my tooth?
Dental crowns are recommended as they are comprised of a stronger material in comparison to a white filling, providing additional protection for the tooth. Once a tooth has been fitted with a crown it can withstand much more pressure and force with a lower risk of breaking.
The aesthetics of a crown can also improve the colour and shape of a tooth. Porcelain has a more natural appearance and is more resistant to stains. Dental crowns are fabricated in a laboratory and follow a method where by measurements are used to create an optimal contact and shape of a tooth.
A dentist may also recommended a crown as it is shown to last longer than any other type of dental restoration.
Why do I need a dental crown?
At Concord Dental Practice, crowns are provided as an option for patients who have a variety of issues with their teeth.
There are many reasons as to why a crown may be suggested for a tooth as a restorative option. Some of these reasons include:
A crack in the tooth – this is a serious condition which causes pain on eating and biting. Left untreated, can cause eventual loss of the tooth as the crack may spread vertically down the root of the tooth
A large filling – white filling material has a shorter life span and can slowly break down and deteriorate over time. Amalgam fillings contract and expand with temperature changes which can cause sensitivity within the tooth, as well as create cracks in teeth. Discolouration of fillings can also occur, requiring matainance and replacement for aesthetics.
A root canal treated tooth – this leaves the tooth hollowed out and weakened, thus requiring a stronger support to protect it from fracturing
Excessive wear of teeth – a crown provides resistance to wear but this treatment must be done considering the entire mouth and effects on other biting surfaces, also known as full mouth rehabilitation. A protective night guard may also need to be considered.
Appearance of teeth – some genetic or developmental enamel conditions as well as previous trauma can leave the tooth darkened, discoloured and have a “patched up” appearance when previously fixed with less durable filling material. Silver amalgam and gold fillings can sometimes only be replaced with a dental crown as there may not be much actual tooth substance remaining
Dental implants – a crown is always required after a dental implant is placed to aid in the function of eating and biting
Our dentists will always provide you with the options for each tooth, explaining the pros and cons of each option.
What is the process involved in having a crown?
The process of getting a dental crown usually takes two separate appointments.
Appointment 1: This appointment involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions and placing a temporary crown on the tooth, whilst the laboratory fabricates your crown. For one tooth this generally takes around 90 minutes.
During the appointments a dental laboratory will fabricate the crown which takes approximately 2 weeks to manufacture.
Appointment 2: This appointment entails removal of the temporary crown and placement of the finished crown onto the tooth to evaluate the appearance and fit. When both patient and dentist are happy with these factors the crown is cemented onto the tooth. This process generally takes around 75 minutes.
At Concord Dental Practice we do recommend dental crowns as a restorative option. To find out further information please contact us on (02) 9743 4001.
