Dental Crowns Brighton, QLD
If one or more of your teeth are showing signs of age, wear, damage or decay, dental crowns could be the answer you have been looking for. A dental crown can be used in a variety of situations and to treat several different conditions.
A recent survey found that almost 50 per cent of all New Yorkers have at least one crown by the age of 55. Dental crowns in Brisbane are becoming almost as common!
What is a Dental Crown?
Think of a crown worn on the head. A dental crown is positioned on a tooth in the same way. The difference is that it is moulded to the tooth so that it is not noticeable. The crown fits over the entirety of the tooth right down to the gum line.
Having a crown on the tooth adds strength and protects a weakened tooth from further deterioration. It also brings aesthetic benefits in terms of its shape and colour. Crowns come in different types, and we will take a look at each of them, along with their pros and cons, in just a moment.
Image attributed to Bim im Garten
Dental Crowns are Often The Answer
Even when you follow every dental hygiene recommendation to the letter, teeth lead a punishing life day in and day out. Tooth decay, infected gums and damage from accidents are common and happen to most of us from time to time over the years.
Your dentist has a number of possible solutions available for all sorts of situations. A dental crown will often be recommended when the tooth damage is too severe to restore with a filling, as it would not have sufficient structural strength. The great thing about dental crowns is they carry out two roles when fitted to a weakened tooth. First, they give teeth the strength to do their job efficiently. Second, they protect the weakened tooth from minimising any further deterioration.
A dental crown is a versatile solution that will be recommended in a number of circumstances. For example, if any of the following situations apply to you, the dentist is likely to suggest having a crown fitted:
- Significant tooth decay – if the decay has caused severe damage to the tooth, a crown will protect what is left and provides an effective solution that looks great.
- Large fillings – fillings don’t last forever. If you have had a filling in the past and it becomes loose, or the tooth needs further attention, filling it again is not always the best option. A crown offers a better fix for long-term protection against further deterioration.
- Chipped or damaged teeth – even a small crack or chip in the tooth can spoil the look of your smile. But even worse, it provides a weak point from which further bigger issues can arise, ranging from further damage if pressure is put on the weak spot to infection and decay. A crown restores stability to the tooth, making biting and chewing easier while protecting the tooth and improving its appearance.
- Post-root canal protection – a root canal removes infected tissue from a tooth and can leave it in a weakened state. A dental crown restores function and appearance while giving the tooth the best possible chance of long-term survival.
- Cosmetic Dentistry Brisbane – increasingly, patients are choosing dental crowns in Brighton as the most practical and effective solution for cosmetic issues like misshapen, and uneven or severely discoloured teeth.
- Replacing missing teeth – when used in combination with a dental implant or bridge, a crown can serve as an effective replacement for a tooth that has been lost or extracted.
Types of Dental Crowns Available
Your dental crown dentist can offer a variety of different types of crowns, made from various materials. The best solution depends on a number of factors, including the condition of the underlying tooth and the type of repair, but also on some factors that are up to you, such as aesthetics and budget.
Porcelain and Ceramic Crowns
These are the more traditional crowns. They look great and are highly resistant to staining and damage. Once fitted, you won’t know they are there, and as long as you take care of them with good dental health habits, you can reasonably expect them to last for many years.
The disadvantage compared to same-day crowns is you will need to pay two visits. The first is to prepare the tooth and take impressions and measurements for the crown. The dental crown dentist will also deal with any issues like tooth decay or defective fillings at this point. You’ll then receive a temporary crown just to keep everything functional so you can eat and talk and so on. Two weeks later, you will be called back in to have your crown fitted.
Image attributed to Bim im Garten
Gold Crowns
If you like your bling, this is just the thing. A gold crown certainly makes a statement and is also eminently practical in as much as it is incredibly durable. The overall process is the same as with porcelain and ceramic crowns; again, it will take two visits.
The strength and durability of a gold crown are second to none. The only disadvantages are that they are not exactly subtle, which might or might not be an issue for you, plus, gold can cause sensitivity in some patients. Also, gold is expensive compared with the other materials under discussion.
A Look at Alternatives to Dental Crowns
Your dentist will always present different alternatives when possible. In the case when a dental crown is likely to be appropriate, these are the most common alternatives that are likely to be possible:
Repairing the Affected Tooth
- A filling is the most common repair when part of the tooth is lost due to decay. For a small cavity, a filling is usually the best option, as it takes less than an hour and is relatively inexpensive. However, for a larger cavity, a dental crown is likely to be a better option, as it stabilises the structure of the tooth and provides a more effective long-term solution.
Covering The Damaged Tooth
- A veneer is an extra layer, a little like a false fingernail, that is added to the tooth. Veneers are worth considering to resolve mostly cosmetic issues, such as chips, discolouration or uneven teeth. However, if the tooth is substantially damaged, a crown is better to restore strength and prevent the tooth from weakening further.
Removing The Affected Tooth
- Extraction is always an option if a tooth is severely damaged through infection or decay. However, dentists treat this as a last resort and will always try to save the tooth if it is practical to do so. In this case, a crown is a better option to lend strength and functionality to the weakened tooth and leave you with the best possible appearance.
Are you ready to get started? Dental Crowns are a solution to many dental conditions, such as fillings, chipped teeth, tooth decay or root canal treatment. If you find you’re suffering from any of these reach out to our team today! Same-day and late opening hours are available to keep your time with us convenient for you. Do you have dental cover? Your rebate can be claimed on the spot with HICAPS. We are a preferred provider for Medibank, HCF and MDF.
* Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.
Common Questions & Answers Related to Dental Crowns
How much does it a dental crown cost?
The cost of a dental crown starts from $1800 depending on the type of material used.
How long do dental crowns last?
A dental crown will, on average, last for 10 to 15 years. Some last indefinitely. If you maintain a good dental hygiene routine of brushing, flossing and regular check-ups, you greatly increase the chances of your crowns lasting a long, long time.
Is it painful having a crown fitted?
No, having a dental crown fitted is minimally invasive and most patients say they feel no pain or discomfort at all. With any dental procedure, there is always the possibility of some feelings of sensitivity during and after the treatment, but this is usually minor. In the unlikely event that you feel pain, tell the dentist immediately, and he or she will numb the affected area immediately.
Are dental crowns a good idea?
Dental crowns are a highly effective and long-lasting restoration treatment for teeth, with a high success rate. This is why they have become such a popular option. The dentist will always talk you through other alternatives that might be appropriate for your circumstances, too, so you can be certain whether or not crowns are right for you.
Do teeth decay under crowns?
A crown encases a tooth, providing an extra layer of protection. However, it is still possible for the tooth to decay, especially if you do not brush and floss regularly. Signs of decay include inflammation, sensitivity, bleeding gums and toothache. If you experience any of these, book an appointment with the dentist without delay.