Dentist Robina crowns are caps that restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength and appearance after damage has occurred. They can be used to protect a weak tooth from breaking, cover a discoloured or misshapen tooth, support a large filling, or complete a root canal treatment or dental implant.
How Does a Crown Work?
The first step is to prepare your tooth for a crown by shaping the outer tooth structure. This may require a local anesthetic, as well as the removal of any existing decay or filling material.
Next, a model is taken of your tooth using dental x-rays and impressions. This is then sent off to a lab to be custom-made into the shape, colour and size of your new crown.
There are a few different types of crowns, including ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal and stainless steel. All these materials have their pros and cons, so it is important to consult with your dentist about which one is best for you.
Porcelain crowns are the most popular type of crown, due to their ability to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. They are also stain-resistant and can be matched to your teeth’s natural colour.
Stainless steel crowns are also available, but they can be a little bit less attractive than porcelain crowns. They are often used for out-of-sight back teeth or when a tooth is severely worn down.
The crown is then placed onto the prepared tooth with a special adhesive, which creates a seamless transition between the new tooth and the crown. Then, a local anesthetic is applied around the tooth to numb the area and keep you comfortable while the crown is being made.
At your second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and your new permanent crown will be fitted. This will also be numb, so you can eat without discomfort.
Once the crown is in place, you should continue to practice good oral hygiene habits and attend regular dental appointments. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss and have routine exams to make sure your crown is in good condition.
Your new dental crown should last a lifetime as long as you take care of it properly. To do this, you should avoid chewing on hard foods and be diligent about visiting your dentist for cleanings and checkups.
It’s also important to remember that the edge of a crown can still develop cavities, so it is vital to keep up with your dental hygiene routine. If you notice any discomfort or pain, let your dentist know so they can help you decide if you need to have the tooth re-cleaned or replaced.
In some cases, your dentist may recommend an onlay, which is a similar restoration to a crown but covers a larger area of the tooth. This is usually recommended for teeth that have had extensive tooth decay, and can be a more cost-effective option than crowns.