Dental Crowns - All you need to know - Miriam Kenny Morehampton Dental Practice

Dental Crowns - All you need to know

A crown is a tooth-shaped cover that is used to rebuild a very damaged tooth. They are also used to restore implants when replacing a missing tooth. A crown completely encases the tooth, strengthening the remaining tooth structure, restoring or improving its appearance and function. It can be made out of porcelain (ceramic), metal (precious or non-precious), or a combination of materials.

Providing a dental crown usually involves two visits to the dentist. The tooth will be shaped precisely and prepared for an impression (a mould). This is then delivered to a specialist dental technician in a laboratory who creates a custom fit crown for your tooth.

At your second visit, we check the fit and appearance of the crown and then seal it in place over the prepared tooth. Crowns are generally among the longest lasting restorations and if looked after properly with regular preventive visits will provide many years of service.

What are Crowns used for?

You may need a dental crown to protect:

Teeth damaged by extensive decay that cannot be fixed with a filling
Cracked, weak or brittle teeth
Worn-down teeth,
After a root canal treatment,
After placing a dental implant,
To correct the bite between upper and lower teeth, or
For cosmetic purposes- to enhance the look, colour, and shape of the tooth

How is a dental crown fitted?

At the first visit, having given a local anaesthetic to the area. the tooth will be shaped precisely and prepared for an impression (a mould). A temporary or ‘provisional’ crown is placed over the prepared tooth. The impression is then delivered to a specialist dental technician in a laboratory who creates a custom fit crown for your tooth.

At your second visit (about 2 weeks later)we check the fit and appearance of the crown and then seal it in place over the prepared tooth.

How long do dental crowns last?

The life span of your dental crown depends on how well you take care of it. Just like a regular tooth, dental crowns undergo wear and tear over time. The amount of wear depends on the quality and material the crown is made of. With proper precautions, you can extend the life of your crowns for decades. On average, most dental crowns last between five to fifteen years.

Think you need a Crown?

If you think you may need a dental crown, please contact us today to make an appointment and get started. If a tooth needs added protection, it is better to act quickly, to avoid further damage and discomfort.

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