What Are Dental Crowns Used?

Dental crowns are usually made of porcelain, metals, or a combination of both. Most people seek out teeth crowns near you for cosmetic reasons. But, there are times when the dentist in Caledon, ON, may recommend dental crowns.

Here are four reasons when dental crowns in Caledon, ON are necessary.

1. Cover an Implant

Dental implants are metal screws made of biocompatible titanium and are fixed on the jaw to anchor the artificial teeth. For the implants to be effective, the dentist will attach a dental crown. These false teeth are made of tooth-colored porcelain and give the teeth are natural color.

The dental crowns are usually cemented or screwed in place after the implants have fused to the bone.

2. Restore Teeth After a Root Canal Procedure

A root canal is a treatment done when your pulp cavity is infected. The dentist will remove the pulp to stop the spread of infection and preserve the teeth. After the pulp is removed, the teeth become weak and brittle. The dental crowns are fixed to hold the teeth and restore strength.

According to research, teeth that do not have dental crowns will only last for about five years after the root canal.

3. Hold a Dental Bridge

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. These bridges are available in different types like the traditional bridges that use dental crowns for support. These crowns are fixed on the adjacent teeth.

4. Prevent Decay

The dentist may recommend a dental crown for children who are at risk of decay. The pediatric dental crowns are applied to the primary teeth to shield them from decay and cavities. Stainless steel crowns are the commonly used crowns as they do not need as much dental preparation as traditional crowns. These crowns fall together with the primary teeth.

Other Times the Dentist Will Choose Crowns Over Veneers?

Both veneers and crowns are used to restore the appearance of the teeth. Veneers are thin shells that cover the front part of the teeth. Crowns are about double the size of the veneers and are more durable. Because of that, the dentist will choose crowns over veneers to correct these dental imperfections:

• Broken and cracked teeth. Tiny cracks can trap food particles which can increase the risk of decay. When you have minor dental cracks, the dentist can opt for dental bonding. However, with severe cracks, the dental crowns are more suitable.
• Misshapen teeth. The dental crowns improve the size of the teeth to make them look even.
• Severely discolored teeth. When your teeth have severe stains and teeth whitening is not effective, dental crowns can be used to improve the appearance.

How Are the Crowns Fixed?

You will need at least two dental visits to have the dental crowns fixed. Except for dental implants, the dental crowns will follow these steps:

• Dental examination

The dentist will assess your teeth and gums. An x-ray can be done to examine the jaw condition. Dental cleaning is done to remove the plaque buildup from the gum line.

• Teeth preparation

The teeth need preparation for the crowns to be fixed. The dentist will trim the teeth to make room and accommodate the crowns. This is an irreversible process and it is important to consult the dentist before you settle for the crowns.

An impression of the teeth to make the permanent crowns (which can take a few weeks). The dentist will cover the teeth to protect them from sensitivity.

• Fixing the crowns

On the second dental visit, the dentist will examine the color of the permanent teeth before fixing them. A special cement and laser light are used to hold the crowns in place.

What Can You Expect After the Crowns Treatment?

Tooth sensitivity is one of the issues that can develop after the crown is fixed. You may use tooth-sensitive toothpaste to ease the sensitivity. Nerve bruising is rare but can occur. If you feel any discomfort after the procedure, contact the dentist for treatment.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Kennedy North Dentistry for more information about dental crowns.