Our Delta and Surrey dentists will sometimes use a dental crown to restore the appearance and functionality of a damaged tooth. However, were you aware that not all damaged teeth require a crown? We explain how to determine whether a crown might be your best choice.
What are dental crowns?
Many types of tooth replacement can be used to surround a tooth's entire surface, restoring it to its original shape and size.
Also referred to as a cap, crowns are custom-made to match the shape, size and colour of your natural tooth, leaving you with a long-lasting smile. When it comes to these durable dental restorations, tooth-coloured porcelain crowns are most commonly chosen.
When is a dental crown my best option?
If you have one of these, our dentists might recommend a dental crown?
- Fractured fillings
- Discoloured teeth that would not be improved with teeth whitening
- Cracked or weakened teeth that require reinforcement
- Large cavities that your dentist is unable to repair using a dental filling
- Broken or decayed teeth that need to be restored
- Dental bridge that needs support
- Misshapen teeth that need concealing
- Tooth that has had a root canal
- Dental implants that require a tooth replacement to cover them
The Procedure
Typically, you'll need to visit our office twice to have the dental crown procedure completed. During your first visit, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic and file down the damaged teeth, allowing room for the crown to be placed atop them. Then, an impression will be made and used to construct your restoration that will then be custom-fitted to your tooth.
Until your permanent crown is ready, you'll wear a temporary crown. The dentist will soon remove the temporary restoration and place the permanent dental crown.