What are Crowns?
Crowns are ceramic or gold/metal tooth replicas that strengthen teeth which have been weakened or discolored through the passage of time or earlier restorative procedures. They work by completely covering the affected tooth, while protecting the deeper layers of the tooth structure.
If your tooth is badly broken or worn down, a crown replaces tooth structure and protects the remaining tooth.
Crowns are used for both restorative and cosmetic dental procedures.
Crowns provide strength, durability, aesthetics and tooth stability.
Crowns are durable and usually last for at least 5-15 years.
When is a crown needed?
- When there is a very large filling on a tooth causing the existing tooth structure to become weaker.
- When there has been extensive damage by decay.
- When you want to improve the appearance and alignment of your smile.
- When you have hairline fractures in your teeth. Grinding your teeth, an improper bite, age and tooth decay can all be contributing factors in the wearing down, cracking or breakage of your teeth.
What's the process?
It’s a two stage process. At the first appointment the tooth is prepared, an impression taken and then sent to a ceramist who will handcraft the crown, (usually within 2 -3 weeks).
In the meantime an acrylic temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth.
Once the permanent crown is returned, we check it for a close fit, you check it for looks and when both parties are happy, we cement it permanently. Textbooks will quote a 15 year life span.