Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Dental Crown

A dental crown could be the perfect fix if you’re dealing with a cracked or weakened tooth. It’s a simple way to restore your tooth’s strength, improve its appearance, and protect it from future damage. Wondering how the process works? Let’s walk through everything you need to know about getting a dental crown.

Why You Might Need a Dental Crown

There are several reasons your dentist in T3B 5K1 may recommend a dental crown. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about protection. Here are the most common situations where a dental crown becomes necessary:

• Cracked or Broken Teeth: A tooth that’s been cracked, either from an injury or grinding, needs a crown to hold it together and prevent further damage.
• Large Fillings: If you’ve had a cavity filled and the filling is too large, the tooth might be weak. A crown will help protect it from cracking under pressure.
• After a Root Canal: Teeth become more fragile after a root canal procedure, and a crown ensures the tooth stays strong for years.
• Worn-Down Teeth: Over time, teeth can get damaged or wear out from grinding or aging. Crowns restore their function and appearance.

A dental crown doesn’t just cover up the damage—it protects the tooth from future issues. If you’ve been searching for a dental crown near you, this might be the solution that puts an end to your discomfort.

Choosing the Right Type of Dental Crown

Not all dental crowns are the same. You have options, and understanding them helps you make the best choice for your needs. Crowns can be made from different materials, each with its own pros and cons:

• Ceramic Crowns: These are often preferred for front teeth because they blend in well with your natural teeth. They look great but may not be as durable as other options.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: This option combines aesthetics with strength. The porcelain looks like a natural tooth, while the metal underneath provides durability.
• Metal Crowns: While not as common for visible teeth, metal crowns are incredibly strong and can last for decades. They’re usually reserved for molars.
• Resin Crowns: These are less expensive but tend to wear down more quickly. They are often used as a temporary solution.

Choosing the right crown depends on the location of the tooth, your budget, and how much durability you need. Talk to our dentist in NW Calgary to find the best option for you.

Your First Step: The Initial Consultation and Assessment

Before getting a crown, the first step is meeting with your dentist for a consultation. During the visit, the dentist will do an assessment of the health of your tooth and decide if a crown is necessary. We will take X-rays to check the condition of the roots and surrounding bone.

Once it’s clear that a crown is the right solution, your dentist will walk you through the process and answer any questions. We may also discuss your options for the type of crown that would work best for your situation. It’s all about making sure you’re comfortable and informed before moving forward. If you’re wondering where to start, check out our dentist near you for an initial consultation.

How the Tooth is Prepared for a Crown

The next step is readying your tooth for the crown. Your dentist will numb the area to make sure you’re comfortable during the procedure. The tooth will then be reshaped by filing down the top and sides to create enough space for the crown to fit over it. If a large portion of the tooth is missing as a consequence of decay or damage, your dentist may need to create the tooth with filling material.

This step ensures the crown will fit snugly and securely. Your dentist will make sure everything is smooth and ready before moving on to the next stage. This process is quick, and you’ll leave the office ready for the next phase of treatment.

Taking Impressions of the Tooth

Once your tooth is prepared, impressions will be taken to create your custom crown. Your dentist may use traditional molds or digital impressions, depending on the technology available. These impressions capture the exact shape of your prepared tooth, ensuring a perfect fit for your permanent crown.

In some cases, digital scans are used instead of molds. This permits more precise measurements and can speed up the process. No matter the method, this step ensures that your dental crown in NW Calgary will fit perfectly.

Temporary Crown Placement: What to Expect

While you wait for the permanent crown to be made, you will receive a temporary crown. This crown will protect the prepared tooth and allow you to eat and talk comfortably. However, you’ll need to be careful with your temporary crown, which isn’t as strong as the permanent one. Avoid sticky or hard foods, and remember to clean around them gently.

Your dentist will give you tips on maintaining the temporary crown while you wait for the final fitting.

Crafting Your Permanent Crown

Your permanent crown is customized in a dental lab. It usually takes a couple of weeks to craft, depending on the material chosen. Skilled lab technicians use the impressions taken earlier to ensure the crown fits perfectly. The goal is to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth. Once ready, the crown will be sent back to the dentist for fitting.

Fitting and Adjusting Your New Crown

When your permanent crown is done preparing, you’ll return to the dentist for the final step—fitting and adjusting the crown. The dentist will take off your temporary crown and fit the permanent one in its place. They will check to ensure the bite is comfortable and make minor adjustments if needed. The crown is then cemented in place, completing the procedure. The feeling of a new crown can take a day or two to get used to, but it should feel like a natural part of your mouth.

Caring for Your Crown After the Procedure

To maintain your dental crown:

• Brush your teeth two times a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss daily between your teeth.
• Rinse or wash with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque and harmful bacteria.
• Stay away from hard, crunchy, or chewy foods.
• If you have the habit of teeth grinding or clenching, talk to your dentist about a custom mouth guard.

Schedule regular dental cleanings and check-ups.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a simple, effective solution for restoring damage

A dental crown could be the perfect fix if you’re dealing with a cracked or weakened tooth. It’s a simple way to restore your tooth’s strength, improve its appearance, and protect it from future damage. Wondering how the process works? Let’s walk through everything you need to know about getting a dental crown. If you think a crown might be right for you, don’t wait. Contact Springhill Dental today to schedule your consultation. A simple appointment could be the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile.