Dental Crowns
Bring Back Your Smile with Dental Crowns in Hamilton
If you have misaligned or broken teeth, there are many ways to restore or replace them, and one such method is getting dental crowns. Dental crowns are a restorative dental procedure for damaged, stained, or misaligned teeth. For over 50 years, Olivieri Dental Care has provided professional dental crown services in Hamilton. Dental crowns serve the functional purpose of keeping teeth strong enough to withstand the chewing and grinding forces they are constantly subject to and add aesthetic value by restoring them to their optimal look.
At Olivieri Dental Care in Hamilton, our dental clinic provides dental services for all ages: children, teens, and adults. During the consultation, we encourage our patients to ask any questions they may have regarding the treatment. It is important to us that they fully understand the process and feel confident in their care. Don't wait for your dental health issues to worsen. Contact us for your dental crown treatment today.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a restorative solution designed to repair a damaged or weakened tooth, providing strength and improving its appearance. It functions as a "cap" that fits securely over the tooth, covering it entirely to restore its shape and function. Its primary function is reinforcing the tooth's structural integrity and safeguarding it against potential damage. Think of it as sturdy armour for your tooth, shielding it from further harm while restoring its appearance and functionality.
A dental crown can be used to address cracked or fractured teeth, severe decay, or discoloration. Regardless of the cause, the primary goal is to preserve the tooth’s structure and function.
It restores damaged teeth, enhancing both dental health and confidence in smiles.
Different Types of Crowns
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Metal crowns: Various alloys are available, the most common of which is gold. A Gold crown typically has a long lifespan and is not likely to chip or break. Platinum crowns are also available. Less costly metals with great strength can also be used to make crowns.
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Composite crowns: They will not chip as easily as composite fillings or “bonding” will, " but will wear out faster due to chewing and grinding forces than porcelain crowns.
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Porcelain crowns: Porcelain crowns are the most natural-looking crowns. They are more brittle than metal and can chip more easily. For this reason, they are mainly used on front teeth and rarely used on back teeth.
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Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: These are the classic crowns most commonly seen and used on both front and back teeth. Depending on how they are designed, a thin layer of metal substructure may be seen if your gums are thin or shrink away from the tooth/crown joint over time.
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Zirconia crowns: They are natural-looking crowns made of the tooth-coloured metal-like material Zirconium. They are the strongest, cheapest, and least likely materials to chip and break.
Olivieri Dental Care in Hamilton offers dental crowns tailored to your unique dental needs. Contact us today.
Benefits of Getting Dental Crowns
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They are natural-looking crowns made of the tooth-coloured metal-like material Zirconium. They are the strongest, cheapest, and least likely materials to chip and break.
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If you have lost large fillings or have decaying teeth where a filling will be too weak to properly fix the tooth (e.g. to last for more than six months), a dental crown can do the job in a way that will last the longest.
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Correcting misaligned teeth to give you a more even/natural look to your smile when moving the teeth with braces or "invisible" aligners is too costly, or cannot be done.
It should be stated that the longevity of dental crowns also depends on proper oral hygiene.
Procedures for Dental Crowns
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Initial consultation: We start with a thorough examination to assess the damage to your tooth and determine if a crown is the best solution.
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Discussing crown materials: Based on your needs and preferences, we will discuss the different crown materials available, such as porcelain, metal, or zirconia, to select the most suitable option for your situation.
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Preparation: We reduce the size of the tooth in all dimensions by the minimum amount needed to make room for the material the crown will be made of.
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Taking impressions: We take a precise impression of your tooth to ensure the crown fits comfortably and securely. The impression is used to create a custom crown tailored to your tooth's shape and size.
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Temporary crown: We may place a temporary crown to protect the treated tooth while fabricating your custom crown.
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Crown placement: Once the definitive crown is ready, we remove the temporary crown and carefully place it over the damaged tooth, checking for proper fit and ensuring it restores functionality and aesthetics. The definitive crown is then cemented or bonded onto the tooth.
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Final adjustment: After placing the crown, we make necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and proper function.
Our team at Olivieri Dental Care in Hamilton is committed to making the crown procedure as smooth and comfortable as possible while delivering a long-lasting and natural-looking result. Book an appointment today.
When Do You Need a Crown?
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Severe tooth decay: When a tooth is too decayed for a filling to provide adequate support, a crown can restore its strength and function.
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Large fillings: If a large filling is needed in a structurally weak tooth, a crown can provide the needed structural strength, and prevent the tooth from breaking.
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Cracked or fractured teeth: A crown is needed to hold together a tooth that has a crack or fracture, but hasn’t yet fully split into pieces. and prevent further damage. If a tooth is cracked or severely fractured.
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Root canal treatment: After a root canal procedure, a crown is typically placed over the treated tooth to ensure it doesn’t fracture or break apart (as root canalled-teeth are at a risk of fracturing).
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Tooth discolouration or damage: A crown can restore a tooth's natural look and improve your smile for discoloured or aesthetically imperfect teeth.
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Tooth misalignment: A crown is sometimes used to correct misalignment and restore a more even and functional bite.
Further reading: Will I Need a Crown After My Root Canal?
Contact Olivieri Dental Care in Hamilton for a consultation to discuss how dental crowns can restore your smile and dental health!
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Proper care and maintenance of your dental crown are essential to ensure its longevity and effectiveness in protecting your tooth. Here are some guidelines to help you keep your crown in optimal condition:
Practice good oral hygiene: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily are crucial for maintaining the health of your crown and the surrounding teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the crown's surface.
Avoid hard foods: Be cautious when consuming hard or sticky foods, as they can put excessive pressure on your crown and cause it to crack or become dislodged. Crowns are strong restorations, but if the crown has porcelain, it is possible to chip the porcelain. Opt for softer foods and cut hard items into smaller pieces to minimize the risk of damage.
Protect against teeth grinding: If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, consider wearing a night guard to protect the teeth your crown will grind against to prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Consult your dentist for the most suitable night guard for your needs.
Attend regular dental check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues promptly. Your dentist can detect early signs of damage or decay and recommend appropriate treatment to maintain the integrity of your crown. Remember, you can always get a cavity on the tooth structure your crown is attached to.
By following these simple yet essential tips, you can prolong the lifespan of your dental crown and enjoy a healthy, functional smile for years to come.
FAQ
How Long Does A Dental Crown Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown can vary depending on various factors, including the material used, the location of the crown in the mouth, and the individual's oral hygiene habits. On average, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
Will My Crown Look Natural?
Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues promptly. Your dentist can detect early signs of damage or decay and recommend appropriate treatment to maintain the integrity of your crown. Remember, you can always get a cavity on the tooth structure your crown is attached to.
Can A Crowned Tooth Get A Cavity?
While the crown cannot develop cavities, the tooth underneath can still be susceptible to decay if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. It's essential to continue brushing and flossing regularly, paying particular attention to the area where the crown meets the gumline to prevent plaque buildup and decay. Regular dental check-ups are also essential for detecting and addressing early decay signs promptly.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost? Will Insurance Cover It?
The cost of a dental crown varies depending on the material and complexity of the procedure. We recommend discussing costs during your consultation at Olivieri Dental Care. Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for crowns, but the extent of the coverage depends on your plan. Our team can help you navigate your insurance options during your appointment.
Your Local Dentist In Hamilton
Olivieri Dental Care is a full-scope family dentistry clinic in Hamilton. We ensure you don’t need to switch between different clinics to get the treatment done for you and your family. We believe each case is unique and requires an individualized approach. We also welcome new patients. When you make an appointment with us, we will understand your concerns and customize the treatment plan to help you get healthy teeth. We know getting dental treatment can be stressful, and our staff uses a personalized approach to provide comfort. Let’s connect to improve your oral health!
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