Crowns

 What Is A Crown?

A crown is a tooth shaped, custom made cap which is bonded to your existing tooth and surrounds the entire chewing surface.  It helps strengthen the tooth as well as restoring its natural size, shape, appearance and colour.

When Would I Need A Crown?

Crowns are a strong and reliable solution for reinforcing damaged teeth, and teeth that may have been weakened due to:

• Trauma
• Large fillings
• Tooth decay
• Excessive wear
• Root Canal Treatment

Dental crowns are also used for cosmetic purposes.  They can improve the overall appearance of teeth that may be crooked, discoloured, or poorly shaped.

What Are Crowns Made Of?

Crowns are often made from all ceramic (non-metal), porcelain fused to metal (metal core with a porcelain outer surface), or metal alloy (such as gold or stainless steel) materials.

All ceramic crowns are strong and provide a very natural and lifelike appearance.  Recent advances in dental porcelains mean that we can now restore strength to teeth as well improve the appearance with a metal free alternative.  Commonly used dental porcelains and ceramics include feldspathic porcelain, lithium disilicate, and zirconia.  Most crowns that we now place are metal free porcelains and are stronger and have better longevity that ever before.

Metal alloy (gold) crowns are used for added strength and durability.  They can be used for molars that undergo heavy grinding and chewing forces.  The disadvantage of these crowns is that they are metallic in colour, and therefore do not have the aesthetic appearance of porcelain.

What Is Involved with A Crown Treatment?

Crowns are usually completed over two appointments.

The first visit involves preparing and shaping the tooth for your new crown.  Moulds are then taken of the tooth so that a customized crown can be made.  The dentist may take photos to assist with shade matching, or alternatively an appointment will be made for you at our dental laboratory.

The crown may take up to two weeks to be fabricated at the laboratory.  During this period, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth between visits until the completed crown is cemented.  The temporary crown is not as strong as the final crown and therefore it is important to avoid chewing hard or sticky foods whilst it is in place.  If your temporary crown becomes dislodged during this time, please call us for advice.

At the second visit the dentist will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and colour of the new crown prior to cementing it onto the tooth.  Some minor adjustments may be required to ensure perfect fit and function.

How To Care For Your Dental Crown

Dental crowns can last many years if looked after properly.  The crown itself cannot decay, however the edge of the tooth where it joins can.  It is important to maintain good oral hygiene practices and attend regular dental hygiene visits to ensure the maximum lifespan of your crown.

Benefits of a Crown

A crown:

• Restores the shape and appearance of your tooth
• Strengthens and holds the tooth together
• Is one of the strongest, longest lasting dental treatments available for repairing and restoring teeth

Call any of the Avenue Dental practices in Caloundra, Kawana, Maroochydore, Bli Bli, North Lakes, Baringa, Sippy Downs, Tewantin, Murrumba Downs, Beerwah and Woolloongabba if you think you may need a crown or require more information.