There are now more ways than ever to restore the look and functionality of your teeth. When people get cavities or experience minor tooth decay in their teeth, they can usually get by with traditional fillings. For situations where the structure and strength of the teeth are compromised dental crowns are a better treatment option.
Dental crowns are also called “caps” they are generally considered to be a restorative dental treatment because they can protect the tooth and prevent further damage. They look like a natural tooth in size, shape, and color and they cover the entire tooth. Learn more about how you can benefit from dental crowns and restorative dentistry in Burnaby, BC.
Why Do People Get Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns restore teeth that are damaged to the point where fillings no longer suffice. These comprehensive tooth-colored caps will cover and seal existing fillings and restore the tooth’s form and function. The Canadian Dental Association describes the restorative function of crowns: “If your tooth is damaged but not lost, a crown can be used to restore its shape, appearance, and function.”
Instead of losing a decayed tooth or having to pull it out and wear a bridge or partial denture, a dental crown can protect a tooth for years. They can delay more costly dental operations. Learn more about the cost of dental crowns in Vancouver.
Patients love the results of dental crowns because they can restore the function and esthetics of their teeth. They also help to prolong the lifetime of your natural tooth, even after trauma. Your dentist will need to make some preparations to shape your tooth, make an impression of your teeth and make a custom-fitted crown. It will be matched to your other teeth and bite. Todays’ dental crowns can look so realistic that even your close friends may not realize that your real teeth have been covered up.
Here are some specific instances in which patients need crowns:
1. Broken or Fractured Teeth
Teeth that have cracks or fractures are vulnerable to bacteria which can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss. In addition, these teeth are often weakened and at risk for further breakage. By covering the damaged tooth with a crown, your dentist can seal and secure the fracture and improve the strength and integrity of the tooth. Thereby preventing further fracture and tooth loss.
2. Worn-down Decayed Teeth
Some people have worn down a large volume of their teeth due to grinding, long term wear and in other cases due to decay or fracture. Trying to rebuild these teeth with fillings is often not the best solution. The filling materials generally do not have the strength or wear resistance to last. The fillings will tend to chip, break or even fall out or wear prematurely.
However, if the gums and root of the teeth are still healthy and solid enough, the teeth can be rebuilt with a crown that can last for many years. This enables you to use your natural tooth root and immediately get back into your normal life without the extra cost and time you need to invest in tooth replacement surgery or tooth replacement options.
3. Breaking, Leaking or Failing Fillings
Sometimes dental fillings can fail. If you find a broken filling or discover leaking from your tooth with a filling, it may be time to cover the entire tooth with a crown. Particularly if this seems to occur repeatedly with the same filling. Of course, your dentist needs to rule out other issues before crowning your teeth, such as bite or bonding issues.
4. Aesthetics & Self-Confidence
In some cases, people will request crowns to improve their smile. Crowns can change the color, size, or shape of the teeth. If you don’t like the appearance of your smile then crowns can conceal the aspects you don’t like. Dental crowns are very similar to veneers in the sense that they improve the aesthetic appearance of your entire tooth.
Dental crowns can sometimes be an excellent alternative to certain cosmetic dental procedures if the tooth is fractured, decayed or otherwise aesthetically compromised. However, make sure to ask your dentist about other simpler and potentially less expensive options such as whitening, bonding or orthodontics.
5. Correct a Bite
Some people may have a bite that needs to be corrected for functional reasons. Orthodontics can also be used to correct a bite issue. But if there are other factors such as excessive wear, fractures or esthetic issues crowns may still be inevitable. This may be a shortcut to using braces if your problems are very minor or if there are limitations to the use of orthodontics. Learn more about whether or not dental crowns can correct your bite by getting your bite checked at the dentist.
Essentially, dental crowns are a restorative dental procedure that can help preserve the natural look and health of your tooth; even after severe cavities, chips or minor cracks. They protect the tooth from further decay and prolong the lifespan of your natural teeth.
Dental Crowns in Vancouver
At the Vancouver Centre for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we will fully examine your teeth to see if they are right for a set of crowns. We will also show you all your treatment options that can help you meet your cosmetic and dental health goals. When you come for a consultation, we’ll explain everything so that you can make a fully informed decision. To find out more information or to schedule your own consultation with one of our dentists, contact us at (604) 434-0248.
