CROWNS

Crowns serve many purposes in modern dentistry. There are several options and many factors need to be considered before commencing treatment.

Why may you need a crown?

  • Crowns can be used for cosmetic purposes.
  • Crowns can be placed over teeth that are cracked or have been weakened by decay, trauma or root canal treatment.
  • Crowns can be used successfully to rebuild or rejuvenate a smile or a worn down dentition.

WHAT IS A CROWN?

A crown is a cap-like casing which fits over a carefully and meticulously prepared natural tooth.  They can be made from gold/precious metal alloys, porcelain fused to a metal alloy or full porcelain.  If it is necessary for a tooth to be strengthened with a crown, at least two appointments will be required.  The first visit, impressions will be taken and the tooth prepared. A temporary crown will be placed for protection before you leave. The next appointment will be 2 to 3 weeks later, the temporary crown is removed and the final crown cemented and adjusted.

BRIDGES

The placement of a dental bridge is a popular and effective way of replacing missing teeth. As with crowns there are several options and many factors to consider before commencing treatment.

Why may you need a dental bridge?

  • To replace a missing tooth or teeth
  • Provides greater function to assist with chewing and speech

WHAT IS A BRIDGE?

A bridge is secured by crowns on either side of a space and fills the area with a high quality porcelain prosthetic replacement.  If a bridge is a suitable treatment option to restore your smile, the process of appointments will be similar to those required for Crowns.

As there are a whole range of factors that need to be considered with crown and bridge treatment Dr Charlie Kahwagi with their years of experience will discuss all of the relevant options with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I expect my crown to last?

You can expect your dental crown to last between 10 and 15 years, though with proper care and maintenance, it may last even longer. Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, along with routine dental check-ups, can help extend the lifespan of your crown.

The recovery time after crown placement is typically short. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure. You may experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s recommended to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods for at least 24 hours to allow the crown to fully settle. If discomfort persists beyond a few days, consult your dentist.

The procedure for getting a crown typically involves multiple steps and may require two visits to the dentist. Sometimes, before a crown can be placed, other dental work must be done on the underlying tooth, such as root canals, bone grafting, or gum surgery. Once these preliminary procedures are completed, your crown procedure can be scheduled.

The first step of the procedure involves modifying your teeth to make room for a crown to be placed over them. This could entail smoothing down the tooth’s edges. If a large portion of your tooth is missing, your dentist may also use filling material to build up the tooth so it can support the crown. Next, you will be fitted for the crown. Your dentist will make an impression of your tooth and the teeth below it to ensure your crown won’t disrupt your bite. Your mold will then be sent to a lab, where your crown will be professionally made and returned to your dentist’s office within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, your dentist will give you a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth.

At the second visit, usually a few weeks later, the temporary crown is removed. Your dentist will then numb your mouth before placing the custom crown, ensuring it fits properly and matches the colour of your natural teeth. The crown is adjusted for a proper bite and appearance. Once everything is satisfactory, the crown is cemented into place, providing a secure and natural-looking restoration for the tooth.