Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns – A dental crown is a type of restoration that is used to strengthen and restore a tooth to its full functionality and appearance. In simpler terms, a dental crown is like a cap that protects a tooth and holds it together.

When a dental crown may be needed – You may need a dental crown for the following reasons

• To protect a badly decayed tooth
• To protect a fractured or chipped tooth
• To protect a tooth that has gone through a root canal treatment
• To reshape poorly shaped or discoloured teeth
• To help correct some bite issues which may then improve speech and chewing ability
• To replace a pre-existing crown

What is the difference between a crown and a bridge? – A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge is custom made to fill in the space created by a missing tooth with a fake tooth. This fake tooth, known as pontic, is usually attached by the bridge to the two other teeth around the space connecting them together.

What is the procedure?

Consultation - An initial consultation is done to discuss the type of crown which will be best suited for the tooth. This will involve a discussion regarding the reason for the crown placement, type of the crown material, cost, procedure involved, risks and complications and expected outcome if you choose not to go ahead with the crown. X Rays are taken to evaluate the tooth before placing a crown. Diagnostic molds may be needed as well. This will help determine if the tooth requires any other treatment prior to starting the procedure for the crown.

First appointment - In this appointment, the tooth is shaped in order to prepare it for receiving the crown. This involves taking away about 1.5 – 2mm of outer tooth structure depending upon the type of crown you have chosen. This step is done under local anesthetic so that you remain comfortable and pain free throughout the procedure. After the preparation, an impression of your teeth is taken to make a model. The crown is made from this model. This can take up to two weeks. However, if needed we are able to provide same-day crowns or within 48 hours at an extra cost.  While your crown is being made, a temporary crown is being placed on the tooth. This is being designed to protect your tooth and gum between visits. Please note, that the temporary crown is not strong or durable enough to last a long time.

Last appointment - Once the crown is ready the temporary crown is removed, the tooth is cleaned of any temporary cement and the dentist will check with you to make sure you’re happy with the fit, colour and shape of the crown before permanently cementing the crown.

Looking after your crown

Once the numbness wears off –  You may experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures on the tooth for several weeks. This is only temporary and should subside on its own. If you feel the bite on the crown is a bit high and that’s the only place where you are touching with your teeth when you bite down you should let us know as soon as possible so we can adjust it.

• You should clean your crown as you would any other tooth by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.
• It is very important to get it checked professionally at least once every year to make sure that the crown is in a good condition.

If you are in need of a dental crown. Please give us a call on 07 3399 6228.