A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that completely covers or encircles a tooth or dental implant. It is typically used to restore a damaged or weakened tooth that cannot be repaired with a filling or to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.
Crowns are typically made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two. Porcelain crowns are popular because they can be matched to the color of the surrounding teeth, making them less noticeable.
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves several steps.
First, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression is then taken of the tooth and sent to a dental laboratory, where the crown is custom-made to fit the tooth precisely.
In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth to protect it. Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented onto the tooth using a dental adhesive.
Dental crowns can be a durable and long-lasting solution for restoring damaged or misshapen teeth, but they require good oral hygiene practices to maintain their longevity. It's important to brush and floss regularly and to avoid biting down on hard objects or using your teeth as tools, as this can damage or dislodge the crown.
Types Of Dental Crowns In Ontario
There are several types of dental crowns in Ontario, including:
Ceramic Crowns
These crowns are made from a porcelain-based material that closely matches the color of natural teeth. They are ideal for restoring front teeth because of their natural appearance.
Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal (Pfm) Crowns
These crowns consist of a metal base with a layer of porcelain fused to the outside. They are strong and durable, making them ideal for use on back teeth.
Gold Crowns
These crowns are made from a gold alloy and are highly durable. They are often used on molars because of their strength.
Zirconia Crowns
These crowns are made from a strong, durable material called zirconia. They are highly Resistant to wear and can be used on any tooth in the mouth.
Emax Crowns
These are all-ceramic crowns made from a type of glass ceramic material called lithium disilicate. They are highly esthetic and are often used on front teeth.
Stainless Steel Crowns
These crowns are prefabricated and are often used as temporary crowns on primary teeth in children.
The choice of crown material will depend on various factors such as the location of the tooth, the amount of tooth structure remaining, the patient's preferences, and the cost. Your dentist will discuss the options with you and recommend the most suitable type of crown for your situation.
Procedure For Dental Crown Services In Ontario
Here's a general procedure for getting a dental crown:
Consultation
Your dentist will examine your teeth and take x-rays to determine if a crown is necessary. They will also discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure with you.
Tooth Preparation
To make room for the crown, the dentist will numb the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. Then, they will remove any decayed or damaged parts of the tooth and shape it to fit the crown.
Impression
Next, the dentist will make an impression of your tooth using a putty-like material or a digital scanner. This impression will be sent to a dental lab to create your custom crown.
Temporary Crown
While you wait for your permanent crown to be made, the dentist will place a temporary crown over your tooth. This crown will protect the tooth and prevent sensitivity.
Placement
When your permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist's office to have it placed. The dentist will remove the temporary crown and clean the tooth. Then, they will check the fit of the new crown and make any necessary adjustments. Once the fit is perfect, the crown will be permanently cemented into place.
Aftercare
After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort. You should avoid eating hard or sticky foods and practice good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of your crown. Your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions.
Overall, getting dental crown services typically requires two or three appointments over the course of a few weeks. The procedure is usually painless and can significantly improve the health and appearance of your teeth.
Benefits Of Dental Crown In Ontario
Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that is used to cover or cap a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth.
Here are some of the benefits of dental crowns services in Toronto:
Protection
Dental crowns provide a protective barrier around a damaged tooth, helping to prevent further decay or damage.
Restoration Of Functionality
A dental crown can restore the functionality of a damaged tooth, allowing the patient to chew and speak properly.
Aesthetics
Dental crowns can improve the appearance of a damaged or discolored tooth, enhancing the patient's smile and self-confidence.
Durability
Crowns are very durable and can last for many years if cared for properly.
Customizable
Dental crowns are custom-made to fit each patient's unique tooth shape and size, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
Prevention Of Tooth Extraction
Dental crowns can often prevent the need for tooth extraction by restoring a damaged tooth.
Overall, dental crowns can provide a wide range of benefits, including protection, restoration of functionality, improved aesthetics, durability, customization, and prevention of tooth extraction.
Faqs
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of dental crowns can vary depending on several factors, including the type of crown material, the quality of the crown, the location in the mouth, and the level of oral hygiene.
In general, dental crown services can last between 5 and 15 years or more, but some patients may keep their crowns for 20-30 years or more with proper care. However, some crowns may fail or require replacement sooner due to various reasons, such as decay, trauma, wear and tear, or gum disease.
It's essential to maintain good oral hygiene, have regular dental checkups, and follow your dentist's recommendations to prolong the life of your dental crown. If you experience any discomfort, sensitivity, or damage to your crown, make sure to contact your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
Are Dental Crowns Painful?
Getting a dental crown is typically not a painful procedure because the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area. However, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure as the anesthesia wears off and the tooth adjusts to the new crown.
This discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If you experience severe pain or discomfort, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to rule out any complications.
Overall, the procedure itself should not be painful, and any discomfort after the procedure should be manageable with medication.
Can A Dental Crown Be Removed?
Yes, a dental crown can be removed by a dentist or dental specialist. The process of removing a crown typically involves using a dental drill to remove the material that is cemented to the tooth, followed by gently prying the crown off the tooth.
However, it's important to note that removing a crown can damage the underlying tooth structure, so it's not recommended unless there is a specific reason for doing so, such as a cracked or loose crown, or if the crown needs to be replaced for some reason.
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