Crowns are commonly used to repair damage that has affected the structure and functionality of a tooth. As they replace the whole outside structure of the tooth, they are a full rebuild for teeth that need an overall restoration. For teeth that have had multiple fillings, extensive decay, and general damage, a crown is the way forward.
In some cases, we may use a crown to restore a tooth following a root canal treatment for an aesthetic and reliable finish.
We first ensure that the internal structure of the tooth is intact and that there are no signs of infection present. We prepare your tooth by removing a layer of tooth structure, making sure we leave a strong core.
We take impressions of your teeth and record their colour so your crown can be made to fit perfectly. Between appointments, we protect the prepared tooth with a temporary crown.
When your crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed and the new permanent one is fixed in place with a strong dental cement.
The best way to care for your crown is to stay on top of your oral hygiene – this means keeping your teeth and gums healthy by brushing with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing between your teeth. You also need to see your dentist regularly for check-ups so they can keep an eye on your crown and the tooth underneath.
You are able to choose the colour of your crown, based on your personal preferences. We may advise you of the shade which would best match your natural tooth colour, but it is ultimately up to you. If you are considering having whitening treatment, you may prefer to have this treatment first, as whitening is not effective on crowns and your crown can then be made to match your new shade.
We use local anaesthetic to numb the affected area before preparing your tooth for a crown, and fitting the crown itself to make sure you won’t feel any pain. We take the time to ensure you feel relaxed and comfortable before beginning any treatment. Many patients find that having a crown is no more uncomfortable than a filling.
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