Crowns
A Durable and Versatile Treatment for Damaged TeethCrowns
A Durable and Versatile Treatment for Damaged Teeth
If you have a broken, cracked, weak or otherwise damaged tooth or teeth, crowns can be an excellent way to improve its appearance.
They are designed as a permanent solution for weak or compromised teeth.
Camlough Dental offer a selection of crowns including:
Porcelain bonded crowns
This type of crown is normally placed on posterior teeth due to their strength under heavy biting pressure. They are made of a metal base which is covered in porcelain that is matched to the colour of the surrounding teeth
Porcelain crowns
These crowns are made completely out of porcelain and have a natural look. They are strong and resistant to chipping and cracking but because they lack a metal core, they might not be suitable for teeth subjected to heavy biting forces
Full gold crowns
Though maybe less aesthetically pleasing and tend to be more expensive, gold is remarkably strong and long lasting and requires less removal of healthy tooth structure to put in place
Post crowns
If a tooth has been root filled it may be necessary to insert a post to support the crown.
The Process
Putting Your New Crown in Place
Fitting a crown usually requires you to attend our practice for two appointments.
Appointment 1
We adjust the tooth if required, then take impressions of your teeth and match your new crown’s colour to the rest of your teeth- particularly those surrounding the area where the crown will be placed. Your tooth will then be gently prepared so its remaining structure provides a strong base.
Appointment 2
We bond your custom made crown permanently into place.
Having a post crown put in place is slightly different as there are two different types:
- A prefabricated post which the dentist can fit directly into the root of the tooth
- A custom made post which will be constructed by a laboratory to accurately fit the shape of the prepared tooth.
The Benefits of a Crown
Rebuild and Repair
Unlike other cosmetic treatments, such as implants, crowns keep the root of your tooth intact. Once the crown is custom made to cover your damaged tooth, it is put in place, improving its strength. Also, unlike dentures, your crown is fitted and doesn’t need to be removed for cleaning or maintenance.
They can, however, also serve as an anchor for a dental bridge and offer an option to replace a missing tooth.
In short, crowns are an effective treatment for restoring a broken or worn-down tooth, improving chewing comfort and restoring the appearance of a discoloured, misshapen or chipped tooth.
Aftercare
Looking After Your New Crown
Practising proper aftercare of your crown is important immediately after the treatment as well as the long term. Here are a few ways to make sure you get the most out of your new crown:
- It’s normal to have some discomfort/sensitivity for a few days after the procedure but it can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers
- For the first 24-48 hours, avoid hard or sticky foods so the crown can properly settle.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and interdental brushes or floss once a day to remove plaque and food from between your teeth
- Avoid biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, as they can chip or damage your crown
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports- especially high contact sports
- Schedule regular checkups and cleanings every six months
- If you grind or clench your teeth at night (bruxism), talk to your dentist about a night guard to prevent your crown from wearing down or breaking
- Avoid smoking as it can stain your crown
- Avoid acidic drinks
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to help reduce plaque and bacteria
- Avoid using toothpastes with abrasive ingredients, as these can scratch the crown
- When flossing around your crown, use a gentle back-and-forth motion to avoid damaging it
- If you notice any chips, cracks, discoloration, or your crown is loose, contact your dentist immediately.
By following these aftercare guidelines, you can help make sure your crown lasts for many years to come.
FAQs
Is it painful to get a crown?
We use a local anaesthetic to numb the surrounding area around your new crown during the procedure so you should feel little to no pain whatsoever.
Are crowns permanent?
If you look after your new crown responsibly there’s no reason that your crown shouldn’t last many, many years. The crown itself is made of porcelain, gold or other durable materials so it won’t decay, but you must still keep the area around the crown clean, just as you would your natural teeth.
Will I notice the crown? Will it look or feel different?
When your crown is first put in place you may notice and feel a slight difference- especially if the original tooth was cracked, broken or misshapen- but you will likely stop noticing it after a few days. There are, however, times when crowns may need a slight adjustment, but otherwise it should look and feel strong, healthy and incredibly natural.
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