At Beach Grove Dental Tsawwassen, Dr. Beeram uses porcelain dental crowns (sometimes called caps) to improve the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth. Unlike dental fillings which are used to restore the function and integrity of a small missing part of a tooth due to cavities or external trauma, dental crowns can provide a better and longer-lasting restoration than a filling since the whole tooth is surrounded and protected from fractures.
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ToggleRestoration of Your Teeth
Dental crowns are often used to restore damaged teeth (e.g. broken or worn) and teeth affected by extensive decay. By restoring your teeth, it is possible to rehabilitate your bite or occlusion and the functionality of the tooth. Strong materials are used to fabricate dental crowns, therefore with proper dental hygiene, preventative care, and routine dental examinations, dental crowns can last between 15 and 30 years.
Improve the Appearance of Your Teeth
If your teeth have been significantly discolored due to fillings or misshapen, dental crowns can be installed over the problematic existing teeth and instantly correct the discoloration or misshapen teeth. Additionally, a dental crown lengthening procedure is used to correct a “gummy” smile where your teeth are covered with excess gum tissue. Since dental crowns are custom-made, they are designed to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth and when the area surrounding the dental crown heals, you will not be able to distinguish it from your natural teeth.
Strengthen Your Teeth
Another common use of dental crowns is to strengthen teeth after extensive damage by decay where a large part of a tooth needs to be replaced by filling. Crowns are also often used to protect teeth after a root canal procedure, especially if the upper part of the tooth has been seriously affected by decay.
Relieve Pain
One of the most important benefits of dental crowns is that they can relieve the pain caused by fractured or broken teeth when you eat or drink. After a damaged tooth has been restored, it may still be vulnerable to additional damage in the future, however, if you opt to protect the tooth with a crown you will reduce the possibility of further damage and sensitivity.
How Dental Crowns are Fabricated and Installed
Dental crown treatment is relatively simple and minimally invasive. Once Dr. Beeram cleans the enamel of your tooth, it is then shaped to provide a firm fit for a crown. After the shaping procedure, Dr. Beeram makes an impression of your tooth that he sends to dental technicians who create your custom-made crown that is designed to match your existing teeth. A temporary crown will be placed over your tooth to protect it until your crown is fabricated. Once the crown is ready, Dr. Beeram uses a strong dental adhesive to attach the crown to your tooth.
Protecting Your Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can endure for up to 30 years depending on your oral hygiene and upkeep. You should consider your crown as if it were a natural tooth and brush your teeth at least twice a day, and whenever possible right after every meal. This will help protect your crowns as well as your natural teeth.
If you have any questions regarding dental crowns or if you are wondering whether they are right for you, contact us online or call us at 604-943-6768 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Beeram!