A healthy and beautiful smile is essential for confidence and overall well-being. However, damaged, weakened, or decayed teeth can compromise both oral function and aesthetics. Fortunately, dental crowns in Edmonton provide an excellent solution for restoring damaged teeth, enhancing their appearance, and improving their longevity. Whether you have a fractured tooth, severe decay, or a root canal-treated tooth, dental crowns can help strengthen and protect your teeth while restoring their natural look.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are custom-made restorations designed to cover the entire surface of a damaged tooth. They restore the tooth’s strength, shape, size, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used in various dental procedures to prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of natural teeth.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
A dental crown may be necessary in several situations, including:
- To Protect a Weakened Tooth: Teeth weakened by decay or large fillings may require a crown to prevent fractures.
- Restoring a Broken or Worn Tooth: A fractured or excessively worn tooth can be reinforced with a dental crown.
- Following a Root Canal Treatment: After a root canal procedure, the tooth structure becomes fragile, making a crown necessary for protection.
- Covering a Dental Implant: Crowns are placed over implants to replace missing teeth and restore functionality.
- Improving Aesthetics: Discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth can be enhanced with crowns for a more natural appearance.
- Bridging the Gap: Crowns are used as anchors for dental bridges to replace missing teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dentists in Edmonton offer various types of dental crowns, depending on individual needs and preferences. The most common options include:
1. Porcelain Crowns
- Provide the most natural-looking appearance
- Best suited for front teeth due to their aesthetic appeal
- Highly resistant to stains
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
- A combination of metal and porcelain for durability and aesthetics
- Stronger than full porcelain crowns
- Suitable for both front and back teeth
3. Metal Crowns (Gold or Alloy)
- Extremely durable and resistant to wear
- Ideal for molars where strength is essential
- Less prone to chipping or breaking
4. Zirconia Crowns
- A strong, metal-free option that mimics the look of natural teeth
- Highly resistant to fractures and long-lasting
- Suitable for patients with metal allergies
5. Composite Resin Crowns
- More affordable but less durable than other materials
- Used primarily as temporary restorations or for minor repairs
The Dental Crown Procedure: Step-by-Step
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation
- The dentist examines the affected tooth and takes X-rays to assess its condition.
- The tooth is reshaped by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the crown.
- An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to ensure a custom fit.
- A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated.
2. Crown Fabrication and Placement
- The dental impression is sent to a dental lab where the custom crown is created.
- After about 1-2 weeks, the permanent crown is ready for placement.
- The dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the fit and color of the new crown.
- Once everything is confirmed, the crown is permanently bonded to the tooth.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Proper care and maintenance can prolong the life of your dental crown. Follow these tips to keep your crown in excellent condition:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup around the crown.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candy, which can damage the crown.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your crown.
- Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist for professional cleanings and exams to monitor the health of your crown and surrounding teeth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The longevity of a dental crown depends on the material used and how well it is maintained. On average:
- Porcelain and PFM crowns last 10-15 years.
- Metal and zirconia crowns can last 15-20 years or more.
- Composite resin crowns have a shorter lifespan of 5-10 years.
With proper care, many patients can extend the life of their crowns well beyond these averages.
Alternatives to Dental Crowns
While dental crowns are a highly effective treatment, some patients may consider alternative restorative options:
- Dental Veneers: A cosmetic option for improving the appearance of front teeth with minimal enamel removal.
- Inlays and Onlays: Partial restorations that provide coverage for damaged teeth while preserving more of the natural structure.
- Tooth Bonding: A less invasive procedure used to repair minor chips and cracks.
For individuals seeking additional cosmetic enhancements, Invisalign in Edmonton is a popular orthodontic treatment that helps straighten teeth discreetly. Many patients opt for Invisalign before or after getting crowns to achieve a perfect smile alignment.
Dental crowns are a reliable and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth while improving functionality and aesthetics. By consulting with an experienced dentist in Edmonton, patients can explore their options and choose the best dental restoration to suit their needs.
