What Are Dental Crowns and How Do They Work?

Dental crowns are custom-made caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, strength, and function. They help protect teeth from further damage and improve overall oral health. 

Dental crowns are commonly recommended for teeth weakened by decay, fractures, large fillings, or root canal treatments.

Why Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Dental crowns serve several purposes, including:

Reason for Dental Crowns	How They Help
Restoring a Broken or Worn Tooth	Covers and protects damaged teeth from further wear.
Strengthening a Tooth After a Root Canal	Reinforces the structure of the treated tooth.
Covering Large Fillings	Protects teeth that have lost significant structure.
Improving Appearance	Enhances the shape and colour of teeth for a natural look.
Supporting a Dental Bridge	Helps secure a bridge by acting as an anchor.
Protecting a Weakened Tooth	Prevents further cracking or breaking of a fragile tooth.
Replacing a Misshapen Tooth	Enhances both function and aesthetics of an irregularly shaped tooth.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

The dental crown process typically involves two appointments at Cranbourne West Dental. The steps include:

1. Initial Assessment and Preparation
   • The dentist examines the tooth and may take X-rays to assess its condition.
   • The tooth is reshaped to create space for the crown.
   • An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to ensure a precise fit.
   • A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the final crown is being made.
2. Laboratory Fabrication
   • The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where the permanent crown is designed.
   • The crown is crafted to match the size, shape, and colour of your natural teeth.
   • This process can take one to two weeks, during which the patient wears a temporary crown.
3. Placement of the Final Crown
   • The custom-made crown is checked for fit, colour, and comfort.
   • The dentist makes any necessary adjustments before cementing the crown in place.
   • The final crown is bonded securely, restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are different types of crowns available, each with unique benefits. The most common types include:

Type of Crown	Material	Advantages
Porcelain	Ceramic-based	Natural appearance, suitable for front teeth.
Metal	Gold or alloys	Extremely durable, ideal for molars.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)	Metal core with porcelain coating	Strong and aesthetically pleasing.
Zirconia	High-strength ceramic	Durable, natural-looking, and biocompatible.
Resin	Composite resin	Temporary solution, less durable than other options.

Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns

Pros	Cons
Restores function and appearance of teeth.	Requires reshaping of the natural tooth.
Provides long-term durability and strength.	Can be prone to wear or chipping over time.
Protects and reinforces weak or damaged teeth.	May cause sensitivity initially.
Custom-made to blend with natural teeth.	Needs regular dental care to prevent issues.
Can support bridges or cover dental implants.	Some materials may not be as aesthetic as others.

Caring for a Dental Crown

With proper care, dental crowns can last many years. Here are some essential tips to maintain them:

• Brush and floss daily to prevent decay around the crown.
• Avoid biting down on hard foods to prevent chipping.
• Visit Cranbourne West Dental for regular check-ups and professional cleanings.
• If experiencing discomfort or sensitivity, contact a dentist for an evaluation.
• Use a night guard if you grind your teeth to prevent excessive wear.
• Avoid consuming excessive sticky or hard foods that could loosen the crown.

Are Dental Crowns a Permanent Solution?

While dental crowns are long-lasting, they may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits can extend their lifespan. Most crowns last between 10 and 15 years, depending on the material used and the patient’s oral habits.

Alternatives to Dental Crowns

For some patients, alternative treatments may be more suitable. Some options include:

Alternative	When It’s Suitable
Dental Veneers	When improving the appearance of front teeth.
Dental Fillings	When minor damage or decay is present.
Dental Bonding	For minor cracks or aesthetic corrections.
Inlays or Onlays	When partial tooth coverage is needed.

Where to Get Dental Crowns in Cranbourne West, VIC

Cranbourne West Dental provides high-quality dental crown treatments, ensuring patients receive strong and reliable restorations. If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, book an appointment with our experienced dentist in Cranbourne West today.