The Low Down on Single Tooth Crowns
Dental crowns, we’ve all heard of them, but do you really know what they are and when you may need one?
A single tooth crown can help repair or replace your damaged, broken or missing tooth and is a popular restorative treatment for patients who need restorative work. To put it simply; a single tooth crown is a cap that fits over a damaged tooth or dental implant. Here at Gentle and Caring Dentistry in Maroubra we offer dental crowns to provide structural support for weakened or damaged teeth.
How do crowns work?
Single tooth crowns are designed to fit over your tooth like a cap or protective barrier for a damaged tooth. They can be used for both restorative and cosmetic purposes in that they can structurally improve your weak tooth while also concealing discolouration or improving the appearance of misshapen teeth. At Gentle and Caring Dentistry we generally use crowns to restore teeth that are ‘at risk’ of further damage. Crowns can be used to provide support for the following problems:
- Large worn fillings
- Feeble teeth from cracks or cavities
- Weakened teeth from root canal treatment
What to expect from treatment
During your consultation appointment we will assess your dental concern and take x-rays of your teeth before evaluating the tooth in question to determine the best treatment for you. If a single tooth crown is required for proper restoration we can begin the process for treatment. We will prepare your tooth to a proper shape so the crown can be bonded to the tooth. The general process will take three appointments which involve the consultation, preparation and then placement of the crown.
Single tooth crowns are also used to cap dental implants, which means after your implant has been inserted we will attach the crown to the abutment to ensure the gap is filled with a tooth. Dental implants are a modern dental solution for missing teeth that can provide a permanent fixture for your missing tooth. The implants are planted into your gums and act as a tooth root before your dental crown is fixed on top.
What’s the difference between a crown, fillings and veneers?
Your consultation session will be useful for discussing other treatment options and the best solution for your dental needs. Generally, dental crowns are used in more severe cases of tooth loss and damage whereas fillings can restore teeth that only require a small restoration, such as cracks, cavities or small imperfections. Veneers on the other hand are commonly used for cosmetic treatments in that they fit over the 6-8 teeth in the ‘smile zone’ and do not provide the structural support that crowns do. Our principle dentist, Dr Roxanna Irani will assess your teeth to determine the most effective treatment for you.
Crowns to the rescue
Single tooth crowns are often a solution for lost or damaged teeth as a result of a dental emergency. Dental emergencies come in all shapes and sizes, whether it is a tooth that has been knocked out, chipped, or if you are experiencing severe pain and sensitivity, we can often find a solution with single tooth crowns. In the case of a missing tooth, a crown or dental implant (which is supported by a crown) is generally the solution. Your crown will look and feel just like your natural teeth, we can colour match your crown to ensure it blends with your remaining teeth. The goal of all our restorative treatments is to ensure your tooth functions well and looks natural.
