A dental crown is a procedure used to restore a damaged tooth’s shape and size, increase its strength, or enhance performance. Here’s everything you need to know about dental crowns, including their cost and benefits.
A dental crown is a ‘cap’ that is customized to fit over a patient’s tooth. Typically, dental crowns are used to restore a tooth’s shape, increase its strength, or improve its performance. Your dentist will cement this crown into place, perfectly encasing the tooth for full protection.
Dental crowns are often recommended for the following scenarios:
- Restoration following a root canal
- Cracked, worn-down, or weak teeth
- Coverage for dental implants
- Large cavities which cannot be filled
- Discoloured or badly shaped teeth
Our Calgary Dental Clinic is Open For Emergency Treatment During COVID-19
In our effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 and keep our patients and staff safe, we have suspended all non-emergency dental care. However, our Calgary dentists are still available to help you with any urgent conditions or concerns, such as jaw pain or tooth abscesses.
Want to know more about our dental emergency and telehealth services during COVID-19?
DENTAL EMERGENCY SERVICES DURING COVID-19
4 Reasons Why You May Need a Dental Crown
There are a number of reasons why your dentist might suggest you need a dental crown, but four of the main scenarios include:
1. You Need a Root Canal
If your tooth has become irreparably decayed or infected, your dentist will most likely suggest a root canal. Once this root canal is completed, a crown will then be used to restore strength to the weakened tooth.
2. Your Tooth is Close to Breaking
Cracked teeth often require a crown since this damage puts the structure of the tooth at risk. Due to increased sensitivity, a cracked tooth can be very painful and a crown will offer relief, while making your tooth stronger.
3. Your Tooth Is Discoloured or Damaged
If your tooth is discoloured or damaged, then your dentist can enhance its appearance using a ceramic or porcelain crown. If you have a glaring metal filling, then a crown can also be used to cover that up for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
4. You’ve Had a Dental Implant
When you are missing a tooth, a dental implant takes the place of the missing root and a crown can be used to replace the missing tooth. Once the dental implant is placed into your jawbone, the crown will cover the top of the implant, allowing you to chew normally.
How to Look After Your Dental Crown
After your dental crown procedure, it’s important to take the necessary steps to look after your crown and affected tooth. Avoid hard or chewy foods, as they could potentially damage your crown.
Do You Grind Your Teeth? Talk to Your Dentist About a Custom Mouthguard
If you are in the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, most dentists will advise that you wear a custom mouthguard at night for protection. This is important because over time, repeated grinding will wear down a crown, and your teeth in general.
If a crown is fit properly by your dentist, and cared for appropriately by you, then it should last 10-15 years.
CUSTOM SPORT AND NIGHT GUARDS IN CALGARY
Have A Dental Emergency or Urgent Question About Oral Care?
If you have an urgent question about your oral health, or you believe you have a dental emergency, our Calgary dentists are only a phone call away. During this telephone consultation, we will ask you for information regarding your situation and advise on the necessary next steps.
If you do need to visit our clinic, we will book an appointment. To find out more, contact us at 403-248-2066 or fill in our online contact form.
