Life happens, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, our teeth bear the brunt. Cracks appear, decay burrows deep, or a sudden impact leaves a tooth fractured. In these situations, where a simple filling won't suffice, and extraction seems like the only option, dental crowns step in as a powerful restorative solution. Often referred to as "caps," dental crowns go beyond simply improving aesthetics; they are instrumental in restoring the essential functionality of damaged teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and speak with confidence once more.

Mending Cracks and Preventing Further Damage

Imagine a cracked tooth. Every time you bite down, the two segments shift slightly, causing pain and potentially leading to further fracturing. A dental crown, custom-designed to fit snugly over the entire visible portion of the tooth, acts like a reinforced helmet. It binds the cracked segments together, providing the necessary strength and stability to withstand the forces of chewing. This prevents further damage and eliminates the discomfort associated with movement. If you’re experiencing such issues, seeking advice from your dentist Drummoyne is crucial to explore the best course of action.

Protecting Teeth from Extensive Decay

Similarly, teeth weakened by extensive decay can benefit significantly from dental crowns. When decay has eroded a significant portion of the tooth structure, there isn't enough healthy enamel left to support a filling. A crown, in this case, protects the remaining tooth structure from further decay and prevents the tooth from collapsing under pressure. It essentially provides a new, strong outer layer, allowing you to use the tooth normally again. Ignoring severe decay can lead to more complex problems, potentially requiring an emergency dentist Drummoyne.

Strengthening Teeth Post-Root Canal

Dental crowns also play a vital role after a root canal procedure. While a root canal saves the natural tooth by removing the infected pulp, it often leaves the remaining tooth structure brittle and more susceptible to fracture. Placing a crown over the treated tooth provides the necessary reinforcement to protect it in the long term. Without this protection, the tooth could eventually break, negating the efforts of the root canal.

Restoring Functionality in Various Scenarios

Beyond structural damage and decay, dental crowns are also used to restore functionality in other scenarios. Teeth that are severely worn down due to grinding (bruxism) can be rebuilt to their original shape and size with crowns, improving bite alignment and relieving jaw pain. Misshapen or severely discoloured teeth that affect proper chewing can also be effectively restored with crowns, improving both function and aesthetics.

The Dental Crown Process

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves a couple of appointments. During the first visit, the Drummoyne dental professional will examine the tooth, prepare it by removing any decay or reshaping it as needed, and take impressions. These impressions are then sent to a dental laboratory where the custom crown is fabricated. A temporary crown is usually placed to protect the prepared tooth until the permanent crown is ready. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is carefully fitted and cemented into place.

If you have a damaged tooth, consulting with your dentist about whether a dental crown is the right solution can be a significant step towards regaining a healthy and functional smile.