dental crown

Crowns: A dental crown is a cap that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its desired shape and size. Crowns are able to protect and strengthen the tooth structure, which cannot be restored by any other type of dental restoration. There are several types of crowns, but the porcelain coloured crowns are the most popular because they resemble natural teeth the best. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size and colour of natural teeth. Crowns are highly durable and will last for many years. But like everything in life, if you don’t take care of them, you will eventually loose them

This procedure generally takes 2 appointments to complete. It is not uncommon for patients who undergo this procedure to experience tooth sensitivity, soreness in the gums, and a general discomfort with the teeth. After the placement of the permanent crown, all this should go away.

While you have your temporary crown in place, you should avoid chewing sticky or hard food. That’s because temporary crowns are only placeholders, and they are made of plastic or soft metal. Once you have a permanent crown in place, you may feel pressure for several days, and even your bite may feel different. If the feeling continues for longer than two or three days, call our dental office immediately.


The reasons why you would need a crown:
 
  1. Support a tooth that has been badly damaged by tooth decay
  2. Restore a tooth after a root canal
  3. Hold together a severely cracked or broken tooth
  4. Protect a worn tooth
  5. Anchor a dental bridge

The dental crown procedure has been performed by dentists for decades, and is considered to be a safe and very effective treatment. However, there are some important considerations that our My Dentist @ Boundary Park dental crowns patients should be aware of, including:

  1. Infection: If the affected tooth is not thoroughly cleaned out and sealed, an infection can develop.
  2. Allergic reaction: A small number of patients may experience an allergic reaction to the materials used during the dental crown treatment process.
  3. Tooth decay: If the crown is not properly sealed, bacteria can accumulate and damage the tooth.
  4. Poor bite: If the crown’s surface is not properly shaved down, it can result in an uncomfortable bite.
  5. Shifting of the crown: Over time, the crown can become loose or dislodged. Patients should expect to have their crown replaced after 10 to 15 years.

Bridges: Dental bridges literally bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a has false tooth/teeth in between. Bridges are cemented onto existing teeth by the dentist and can be easily removed if needed. If the patient doesn’t want a bridge, there are other options such as placing a dental implant in the space of the missing tooth.


How Long do Crowns and Bridges Last?
 

While crowns and bridges can last you a lifetime, they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the life of your crown or bridge is to practice good oral hygiene. A bridge can lose its support if the teeth or bone holding it in place are damaged by diseases related to dental. Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily. Also visit our Surrey dental office for regular checkups and professional cleaning.