Dental Crowns
we understand the importance of a confident smile and the role dental health plays in your overall well-being. Dental crowns are a reliable solution for restoring damaged, weakened, or aesthetically compromised teeth. Our expert team in Dublin is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centred care, ensuring your dental crown treatment is tailored to your unique needs.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, often referred to as a 'cap,' is a custom-made restoration that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth. It's designed to restore the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used when a tooth is cracked, extensively decayed, or has undergone root canal treatment. They can also be employed for cosmetic enhancements, improving the appearance of misshapen or discoloured teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns Offered
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Porcelain Crowns: Known for their natural appearance, porcelain crowns are ideal for front teeth restorations.
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Zirconia Crowns: Highly durable and aesthetically pleasing, zirconia crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth.
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E-Max Crowns: Made from lithium disilicate ceramic, E-Max crowns offer excellent strength and translucency, closely mimicking natural teeth.
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Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Combining strength and aesthetics, PFM crowns have a metal core covered with porcelain, suitable for various positions in the mouth.
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Gold Crowns: While not as commonly used today, gold crowns offer unmatched durability and are gentle on opposing teeth, making them suitable for molars.
The Dental Crown Procedure
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Initial Consultation: We begin with a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the tooth's condition and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
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Tooth Preparation: The tooth is carefully reshaped to accommodate the crown. If necessary, a core build-up is performed to provide a solid foundation.
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Impression Taking: We take precise impressions of your teeth to ensure the crown fits seamlessly with your bite and adjacent teeth.
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Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated.
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Crown Fabrication: Our skilled dental technicians craft your custom crown, focusing on aesthetics and functionality.
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Final Fitting and Cementation: Once ready, we remove the temporary crown and fit the permanent one, making any necessary adjustments before cementing it in place.
Benefits of Choosing Dental Crowns
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Function Restoration: Crowns restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
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Protection: They protect weakened teeth from further damage or decay.
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Natural Appearance: Crowns enhance the appearance of teeth, contributing to a more confident smile.
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Durability: With proper care, crowns can last many years, providing a long-term solution.
Patient Before and After Results
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Once your dental crown has been placed, maintaining it with proper care is essential to ensure its longevity and continued performance. Good oral hygiene plays a vital role. You should brush your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be sure to pay particular attention to the area where the crown meets your natural tooth, as plaque and bacteria can accumulate along the gumline. Flossing daily is just as important—it helps to remove debris and plaque from between teeth and around the crown, keeping the surrounding gum tissue healthy.
Regular dental check-ups are also crucial. At The Dental Suite, we recommend attending routine appointments for professional cleanings and comprehensive examinations. These visits allow us to monitor the health of your crowned tooth and the rest of your mouth, spotting any potential issues early before they become more serious.
To protect your crown from unnecessary wear or damage, it's advisable to avoid chewing on hard foods or objects such as ice, pen tips, or fingernails. These habits can put excessive pressure on the crown and may cause it to chip or crack over time. Similarly, if you suffer from bruxism—more commonly known as teeth grinding—it's important to let your dentist know. Grinding can put a lot of stress on both natural teeth and restorations, so wearing a custom night guard while you sleep can help prevent damage and prolong the life of your crown.
FAQs
1. How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last between 10 to 15 years, and sometimes longer. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential for longevity.
2. Is the dental crown procedure painful?
The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, minimising discomfort. Some sensitivity may be experienced after the anaesthesia wears off, but it usually subsides within a few days.
3. Can a crowned tooth get cavities?
While the crown itself cannot decay, the underlying tooth is still susceptible to cavities, especially at the margin where the crown meets the natural tooth. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial.
4. Are dental crowns covered by insurance?
The procedure is not painful, as it is carried out under local anaesthesia to ensure comfort. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort for a few days after the bridge is placed, but this usually subsides quickly.
5. Are dental crowns covered by insurance?
Coverage varies depending on your dental insurance plan. It's advisable to check with your provider to understand the specifics of your coverage.
6. How do I know if I need a dental crown?
If you have a tooth that's cracked, severely decayed, worn down, or has undergone root canal treatment, a dental crown may be recommended. A consultation with our dental team can confirm the best course of action.