If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry in Northcote to improve the appearance of your teeth, a dental crown might be a great option. This common procedure can enhance the look and function of your teeth, whether you need it for a decayed tooth, injury, or simply to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

A dental crown is a usual treatment that can greatly enhance the look and functioning of your teeth. Whether you require a crown because of decayed tooth, injury or for cosmetic reasons, it’s vital to be knowledgeable prior to undergoing this process. Here is an all-inclusive guide on what you must understand before getting dental crowns.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental cap, also known as a crown, is positioned on top of an injured tooth. It fixes the tooth’s form, dimension, durability and look. Usually suggested for teeth that are too harmed to be repaired with a filling but still have good health to keep them healthy. Materials that can be used to create crowns include porcelain, ceramic, metal or a mix of these. Your dentist will help you decide the most suitable material for your crown considering factors like your requirements, where the tooth is situated and what you are willing to spend.

Why You Might Need a Dental Crown

There are several reasons why you might need a dental crown:

• Big cavities

If the cavity is too big to be filled with a basic filling, we might have to use a crown for repairing the tooth.

• Cracked or chipped teeth

Crowns may help in keeping a tooth with cracks intact or bringing back the original form of one that is chipped.

• Root canal treatment

Following the root canal, a crown may be required to safeguard the tooth from future harm.

• For looks

Crowns are helpful to hide teeth that have changed colour or shape, making your smile better.

• Grinding

Teeth that have been worn down from grinding or clenching can be fixed with a crown.

Types of Dental Crowns

The sort of crown you receive is determined by many things, such as where the crown will be put and what your liking is. The typical types of dental crowns are:

Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: These are often chosen for front teeth as they resemble natural teeth the most, and also can be matched in colour to your surrounding teeth, making them virtually identical.

Metal Crowns: These are made from materials like gold, palladium, nickel or chromium. They can handle a lot of pressure and wear over time. The kind of metal used affects the crown’s strength and colour. Generally, metal crowns last a long time and don’t get damaged easily but they can be seen more than other types so they’re often put on molars that aren’t visible when you smile.

• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These crowns offer a good balance between strength and appearance. The metal provides strength, while the porcelain overlay gives the crown a more natural look.

• Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia is a newer material that combines the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. These crowns are very durable and can be colour-matched to your teeth.

The Procedure: What to Expect

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist:

• First Visit: During your first visit, the dentist will examine and prepare the tooth that needs the crown. This may involve taking X-rays to check the roots of the tooth and the surrounding bone. The tooth is then filed down to make room for the crown. If a large area of the tooth is missing due to damage or decay, the dentist may use filling material to build up the tooth to support the crown. After the tooth is shaped, an impression of the tooth is taken. This impression is sent to a dental lab where your crown will be made. A temporary crown is placed over the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.

• Second Visit: After the preparation of permanent crown (it generally takes a few weeks), you come back to the dentist for placement. Dentist eliminates the temporary crown and examines how well the permanent one fits with natural teeth in your mouth. Also, the dentist sees if its colour blends nicely enough without standing out too much or appearing different from other teeth nearby. If all seems fine, the new crown gets cemented into position on the tooth stump using a dental adhesive compound called “cement”.

Post-Procedure Care

For keeping the crown in good condition, you need to continue with regular dental care. These are some tips:

• Keep Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth two times every day and use floss for cleaning around the crown part.

• Stay Away from Hard Foods: Crowns are tough, but they can get harmed when you bite on things such as ice, nuts and hard candies. Try not to chew these types of hard foods.

• Look out for Possible Issues: If you feel any irritation, ache or tenderness after receiving your crown, communicate with your dentist. Sometimes, the crown may require some changes.

• Regular Dental Visits: Keep going for your normal dental check-ups to confirm that your crown is still strong and maintain good oral health in general.

Receiving a dental crown is an important, yet usual dental procedure that helps in restoring both the function and look of a tooth which has been damaged. Find a clinic that offers cosmetic dentistry in Northcote, book an appointment to find the best treatment for your dental situation. Understanding the process, different types of crowns as well as how to take care of your new crown are key factors for achieving a successful result that lasts a long time. You should always consult with your dentist to know what is the best option for you specifically.