Dental Crowns for Added Strength and Esthetics
Dental crowns play a pivotal dual role in fortifying the strength of compromised teeth while enhancing their aesthetic appeal. Serving as protective caps, these meticulously crafted prosthetic devices provide structural reinforcement to teeth that have suffered damage from decay, fractures, or extensive cavities.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, also known as caps, are custom-fitted prosthetic devices that encase a damaged or weakened tooth. Crafted from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, these crowns provide strength and protection while seamlessly blending with the natural teeth.
Indications for Dental Crowns
1. Restoring Damaged Teeth
Dental crowns are ideal for restoring teeth that have undergone significant decay or damage. This includes fractures, large cavities, or teeth weakened by root canal treatments.
2. Cosmetic Enhancements
Beyond restoration, crowns play a pivotal role in cosmetic dentistry. They are employed to improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth, creating a harmonious and attractive smile.
The Dental Crown Procedure
1. Comprehensive Examination
Before proceeding with the dental crown procedure, our experienced dentists conduct a thorough examination. This involves assessing the overall oral health, identifying specific issues, and discussing the most suitable crown material for the patient's needs.
2. Tooth Preparation
To ensure a precise fit, the targeted tooth undergoes careful preparation. This may involve reshaping or reducing the tooth structure to accommodate the crown. Impressions are then taken to guide the fabrication of a custom crown.
3. Temporary Crown Placement
While the permanent crown is being crafted in our state-of-the-art dental laboratory, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. This interim step ensures functionality and aesthetics are maintained.
4. Custom Crown Fabrication
Utilizing advanced technology and high-quality materials, our skilled technicians meticulously craft the permanent crown. The choice of material is tailored to meet the patient's preferences, ensuring a durable and natural-looking result.
5. Final Placement
Once the custom crown is ready, the patient returns for the final placement. Our dentists ensure a precise fit, make necessary adjustments, and secure the crown in place. The result is a seamlessly integrated restoration that restores both form and function.
Materials for Dental Crowns
When it comes to dental crowns, a crucial consideration lies in the choice of materials, each offering distinct advantages to address both functional and aesthetic requirements:
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Porcelain:
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Valued for its natural appearance, porcelain crowns seamlessly mimic the look of natural teeth, ensuring a visually harmonious result.
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Biocompatible properties make porcelain an excellent choice for individuals concerned about allergic reactions or adverse tissue responses.
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Ceramic:
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Renowned for its durability, ceramic crowns provide a long-lasting solution, effectively withstanding the daily wear and tear experienced by teeth.
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Stain resistance is a notable feature, ensuring that the aesthetic appeal of the crown remains intact over time, maintaining a vibrant and natural appearance.
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Metal Alloys:
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Exceptional strength is a hallmark of metal alloys like gold or silver, rendering them particularly suitable for posterior teeth where durability is paramount.
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While metal crowns may not match the natural color of teeth, their robustness makes them an excellent choice for teeth subjected to intense biting forces.
Introduction to CEREC Crowns
In the ever-evolving landscape of dental technology, the CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) system represents a significant leap forward in the realm of dental crowns:
CEREC Technology
Utilizing cutting-edge CAD/CAM technology, CEREC crowns are crafted with unparalleled precision, ensuring an optimal fit tailored to each patient's unique dental anatomy.
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The system enables the creation of custom crowns in a single dental visit, eliminating the need for traditional molds and temporaries, streamlining the process for patient convenience.
Benefits of CEREC Crowns:
Finished Crown In A Single Visit
Expedited results without compromising on quality mean that patients can enjoy the benefits of a custom-fitted crown in a time-efficient manner.
Precision Fit
Precision in crafting ensures that CEREC crowns seamlessly integrate with the natural dentition, providing not just strength but also a visually appealing result.
Durable And Esthetically Pleasing
High-quality ceramic materials utilized in CEREC crowns contribute to both durability and aesthetics, combining the best of both worlds for an optimal dental crown solution.
Case Study:
A woman in her early 40s visited our Drury practice seeking a smile makeover, expressing self-consciousness about the current state of her teeth. Dr. Kav successfully revitalized her smile by applying 4 crowns and veneers to her upper front teeth. Explore the transformation in her appearance through the before-and-after photos.
Before
After
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Are dental fillings painful?Any discomfort experienced during and after the procedure can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medication and typically subsides within a few days.
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How long do dental fillings last?The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the type of material used. Gold fillings can last 10-15 years or more, while composite and ceramic fillings may last 5-10 years. Glass ionomer fillings are suitable for non-load-bearing areas and may have a shorter lifespan.
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Can I eat and drink normally after getting a dental filling?Yes, you can eat and drink as usual after getting a dental filling. There might be some sensitivity immediately after the procedure, but it should subside quickly.
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Are there any risks associated with dental fillings?Dental fillings are generally safe. However, some individuals may experience mild sensitivity or allergic reactions to certain filling materials. Our experienced dentists at Auckland Family Dental will discuss these concerns and choose the best option for your specific needs.
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How do I care for my dental fillings?Caring for dental fillings is easy. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure the longevity of your fillings.