Focus on: Crowns

October 27th, 2017

In today’s article we’d like to let you know about crowns. Each year, we support many patients by providing them with crowns that help them to feel renewed confidence in their smile. For many, crowns provide a perfect solution to problems experienced with damaged or discoloured teeth. Hopefully today’s article will answer any questions you may have and, should you be in a position where you are considering seeking advice, make you aware of the possibilities that crowns offer.

What are crowns?

Crowns, which are sometimes referred to as ‘caps’, are artificial restorations which are placed over the top of an individual tooth. They give the tooth strength, and restore it’s shape. They can be made of a number of different materials including: porcelain, all-ceramic, glass and gold-alloy. The different materials all have characteristics that make them suitable for slightly different restorative purposes. New materials and methods are continually being trialled.

What kinds of problems can crowns be used for?

  • Repairing damaged teeth, for example those that have been broken.
  • Supporting weakened teeth, such as those that are severely decayed, or which have a significant filling.
  • Improving the appearance of teeth that have become discoloured.
  • Protecting the remainder of a tooth when you have had a root filling.
  • Holding a denture or a bridge in place.

What will happen if I have a crown fitted?

Before a crown can be fitted, your dentist will need to carefully prepare the tooth. They will need to ensure it is the ideal shape by removing a layer of the outer surface. This ensures that the inner core is strong. Once the tooth has been prepared, a series of moulds will be taken to capture the shape of that tooth, and your ‘opposite’ tooth on the other side of your jaw. Other moulds may be needed to take into consideration how you bite. These impressions are then used to make your crown.

Once your crown has been created, and you (and your dentist) agree that it’s suitable, it will be attached to your tooth. This is done using a special dental adhesive or cement.

This will all take place over at least two dental visits.

Will it hurt?

A local anaesthetic will be given whilst the tooth is being prepared, and so you should not feel anything.

Will the crown look and feel different to my other teeth?

Crowns can be created in a variety of different shades. This is one of the discussions you will have with your dentist as part of your visits. Therefore, your crown should closely match the colour of your other teeth.

You may initially notice that your tooth feels different: it will be a different shape. However, after a few days you are unlikely to notice any difference. If you experience problems with you bite feeling uncomfortable then it’s worth having a discussion with your dentist so that it can be adjusted, if needed.

How do I care for my crown?

Crowns require care and cleaning in the same way that your natural teeth do. The crown won’t decay, but without proper care then the area where the crown joins the tooth might begin to decay. You should follow standard oral hygiene advice and routines (which your dentist can advise on if you are unsure) in order to protect your crown. With appropriate care, your crown should last for many years.

What’s next?

If this all sound interesting, and you’d like to know more, please give us a call today. One of our team will be happy to discuss crowns with you in more detail, and answer any questions you may have. Our team can be reached on: 01235 533777. Alternatively you could visit our webpage for more information on crowns: https://ockstreet.wpengine.com/advanced-dentistry-in-abingdon-oxford/crowns-in-abingdon-oxford.

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