Embrace a More Beautiful Smile with Dental Crowns in North Perth

Dental crowns are custom-made tooth caps. They are designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain or metal. They are normally used in several situations:

• Tooth decay:
  When a tooth has a large cavity that a filling cannot address, a crown is needed. The crown covers and protects the entire tooth from further decay and restores its functionality.
• Root canal treatment:
  After a root canal treatment, teeth become fragile and prone to breakage. A crown provides strength and protection to the treated tooth, enhancing its durability.
• Broken or worn teeth:
  Excessively worn, cracked, or chipped teeth from grinding require crowns. Crowns restore their healthy tooth structure and prevent further damage.
• Cosmetic enhancement:
  For poorly shaped or discoloured teeth, crowns offer a cosmetic improvement. They enhance the overall appearance of the teeth, improving the smile.
• Dental implants:
  Crowns are used to complete a dental implant procedure. They serve as the visible part of the implant, resembling a natural tooth.

Each of these situations demonstrates the versatility and necessity of dental crowns in restorative dentistry. They not only restore the integrity of damaged teeth but also contribute to a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing smile.

The material chosen for a crown depends on various factors, including the tooth’s location and the patient’s preference. Several materials are commonly used for making dental crowns:

• Porcelain:
  Porcelain crowns are popular for their natural appearance. They closely mimic the translucency and colour of natural teeth. Porcelain is highly biocompatible, making it suitable for people with metal allergies. It’s often used for front teeth due to its aesthetic appeal.
• Gold Alloys:
  Gold alloy crowns are a mixture of gold, copper, and other metals. They provide strength and don’t wear down the teeth opposite them in the mouth. Gold crowns are highly durable and are often used for back teeth.
• Metal Alloys:
  These crowns are made from non-noble metals that are highly resistant to corrosion. They are the strongest in terms of resisting wear and fracture. Metal alloy crowns are usually recommended for back teeth due to their strength.
• Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM):
  PFM crowns offer a combination of porcelain’s natural appearance and metal’s strength. The metal structure provides strong support, while the porcelain exterior gives a tooth-like appearance. They are suitable for both front and back teeth.

Selecting the right material for your dental crown is essential for achieving functionality and aesthetic match with your natural teeth. Your dentist can provide guidance on the suitable material for your specific needs.

The dental crown procedure usually involves two separate visits to the dentist, each lasting about an hour to ninety minutes. The first visit involves preparing the tooth and taking impressions, while the second is for fitting the crown.

Several factors can influence the duration of the dental crown procedure:

• Condition of the tooth:
  Extensive tooth preparation, such as a large filling or a tooth root canal treatment, may extend the process. This preparation is crucial for the crown to fit well and function properly.
• Customisation of the crown:
  The time taken to create a custom crown can vary. Specific colour matching or intricate shaping may require additional lab work time.
• Dental lab scheduling:
  The turnaround time at the dental lab can affect the overall timeline. Busy periods at the lab may extend the waiting period between the two dental visits.
• Adjustments and fittings:
  Sometimes, additional adjustments are needed for a precise fit. If the crown requires multiple fittings or adjustments, this can extend the overall duration of the procedure.
• Dentist’s schedule:
  The dentist’s schedule and availability can also impact the timeline. Longer waiting times for appointments can extend the overall duration of the crown procedure.

Understanding these factors helps in setting realistic expectations for the dental crown procedure. It’s a process that requires precision and high-quality dental care, focusing on the desired outcome for your dental health and comfort.

No, dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, usually making them unnoticeable. The visibility of a dental crown can vary depending on several factors:

• Material used:
  The type of material impacts the crown’s appearance. Porcelain crowns mimic the translucency and colour of natural teeth, making them less noticeable. Metal crowns, while durable, are more visible due to their colour.
• Colour matching:
  The dentist’s skill in colour matching plays a crucial role. A crown that closely matches the shade of your natural teeth will be less noticeable. Inaccurate colour matching can make the crown stand out.
• Placement of the crown:
  Crowns on the front teeth are more visible and require precise colour and shape matching. Crowns on back teeth are less noticeable and can be made from different materials.
• Craftsmanship and fit:
  The quality of the dental lab and the dentist’s skills in fitting the crown affect its noticeability. A well-crafted and properly fitted crown will blend in more effectively with your natural teeth.
• Gum health:
  Healthy gums contribute to the natural appearance of dental crowns. Receding gums can expose the crown’s base, making it more noticeable.
• Wear and tear:
  Over time, crowns can experience wear, which might affect their colour and fit. Regular dental check-ups allow for crowns to remain in good condition and are less noticeable.

Choosing the right crown involves considering these factors to achieve a natural, harmonious look with your existing teeth. Your dentist can guide you in choosing the suitable material and design for your specific dental situation.

Proper care for a dental crown is essential to extend its lifespan and maintain oral health. Like natural teeth, crowns require regular and effective maintenance. Good ongoing care prevents potential problems like tooth decay under the crown or gum disease. To care for your dental crown, consider the following steps:

• Regular brushing:
  Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Focus on the area where the gum meets the crown to reduce plaque and prevent gum disease.
• Flossing daily:
  Floss around the crown to reduce food particles and plaque. Slide the floss gently to avoid dislodging the crown.
• Avoiding hard foods:
  Chewing hard foods can damage crowns. Avoid ice, hard candies, and other similar foods to protect the crown’s integrity.
• Using a night guard:
  If you grind your teeth, consider using a night guard. This helps protect the crown and your natural teeth from excessive wear.
• Regular dental check-ups:
  Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. This allows the crown and surrounding teeth to remain in good condition.
• Avoiding sticky foods:
  Sticky foods can pull at and loosen crowns. Foods like caramel or chewing gum should be avoided to maintain the crown’s stability.

Caring for your dental crown through these steps will help maintain its condition and your overall oral health. Regular maintenance and dental visits are key to enhancing the longevity of your dental crown.

Dental crowns usually last between 5 to 15 years, but they can last longer with proper care. The lifespan of a dental crown depends on various factors. Here’s how these factors can affect the longevity of dental crowns:

1. Material of the crown:
   Metal crowns are highly durable and ideal for withstanding strong biting forces. Tooth-coloured porcelain crowns, while aesthetically pleasing, are more prone to chipping under heavy pressure.
2. Oral hygiene practices:
   Effective brushing and flossing reduce the risk of decay and gum disease around the crown. Good oral hygiene is essential to maintain the crown’s stability and prevent its early failure.
3. Personal habits:
   Habits like teeth grinding exert extra pressure on crowns, risking damage. Using a night guard can protect the crown from undue stress.
4. Quality of dental work:
   A crown’s longevity is greatly influenced by the precision of its fit and the craftsmanship. Properly fitted teeth crowns distribute biting forces evenly, reducing the risk of wear or damage.
5. Location in the mouth:
   Crowns for teeth on the back part face more wear due to chewing forces, potentially reducing their lifespan. Front teeth crowns generally experience less mechanical stress, often lasting longer.
6. Regular dental check-ups:
   Regular visits to the dentist help in early detection of problems with the crown. Timely intervention can address issues like loosening or wear, thereby extending the crown’s lifespan.

Understanding and addressing these factors can significantly contribute to the durability of your dental crown. Regular care and dental visits are key to allowing your crown to remain in optimal condition for as long as possible.

Yes, dental crowns for teeth are not just about restoring function; they play a significant role in cosmetic dentistry, too. Covering damaged or imperfect teeth offers a transformative effect on your smile.

Here’s how our procedure for dental crowns in North Perth can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your teeth:

• Restoring tooth shape:
  Crowns are custom-made to match the shape of your natural teeth. When a tooth is broken or worn down, a crown is shaped to mimic the original tooth, restoring its natural appearance and symmetry with the rest of your teeth.
• Improving tooth colour:
  Crowns for teeth that are discoloured or stained beyond what whitening can address is an effective option. By covering the entire visible surface of the tooth, a crown provides a uniform, natural-looking colour, effectively masking deep stains or discolouration.
• Aligning tooth size:
  For teeth that are smaller or uneven compared to adjacent teeth, crowns can be designed to match the ideal size and shape. This helps in creating a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing dental line, contributing to a balanced smile.
• Closing gaps:
  While not a standard option for gaps, in some instances, crowns can be used to close or reduce spaces between teeth. By slightly increasing the size of the teeth crowns on either side of a gap, it can be made less noticeable, improving dental alignment.
• Covering chips and cracks:
  Crowns are tooth caps that can provide a protective cover over chipped or cracked teeth. This not only conceals these imperfections for a better appearance but also shields the tooth from further damage like breakage or decay.

Dental crowns are a versatile and effective way to address a range of cosmetic dental concerns, offering a path to a restored, more aesthetically pleasing smile. Their ability to improve tooth appearance while also providing protection makes them a popular choice in cosmetic dentistry.

No, getting a dental crown in North Perth is generally not a painful process, as measures are taken to maintain patient comfort. Various methods are used to make the procedure comfortable and alleviate any anxiety:

• Local anaesthesia:
  This is crucial in reducing pain. The dentist administers an anaesthetic to the area around the tooth, effectively numbing it. You might feel some pressure or movement, but the sensation of pain is significantly diminished during the tooth preparation and crown fitting.
• Gentle dental techniques:
  Dentists perform crown procedures with care and precision. They shape the tooth for the crown, causing minimal impact on surrounding tissues. This approach helps in reducing potential discomfort during the procedure.
• Sedation options for anxiety and comfort:
  Sedation in dentistry is used to help patients relax and feel comfortable during procedures. It ranges from mild sedatives that ease anxiety to deeper forms that induce a state of near-sleep. Sedation is especially helpful for the candidate for crowns who experiences dental anxiety or is undergoing longer procedures. Here are the twilight or conscious sedation options Enso Dental North Perth offer our patients:
  • Intravenous IV sedation:
    Administered through a vein, this sedation allows for quick onset and a deep state of relaxation, which is especially beneficial for anxious patients.
  • Inhalation Sedation:
    A sedative inhaled through a mask creates a relaxed state and eases discomfort. Its effects wear off quickly after removal.
  • Oral Sedation:
    Prescribed for calming nerves and reducing anxiety, these tablets are taken before the procedure.

These methods focus on patient comfort and reducing anxiety associated with dental procedures. The aim is to make the experience of getting tooth caps as pain-free and stress-free as possible.

Health fund cover for dental crowns varies depending on your specific policy and fund. Generally, dental crowns are considered a major dental procedure. Most health funds categorise them under major dental benefits, but details can differ. Understanding your health fund’s policy on dental procedures is important to determine cover.

Cover for dental crowns is often case-by-case, influenced by several factors:

• Type of health fund:
  Different health funds have varying policies regarding dental cover. Some may offer more comprehensive cover for major dental work, including crowns, while others might offer limited or no cover.
• Level of cover:
  Your level of cover plays a significant role. Higher levels of private health funds normally provide greater cover for major dental procedures like crowns.
• Annual limits:
  Most health funds have annual limits for dental claims. This limit is the maximum amount you can claim for dental procedures, including crowns, in a year.

• Waiting periods:
  Some health funds impose waiting periods for major dental work. You might need to hold the policy for a certain period before you can claim benefits for a dental crown.

• Pre-approval requirements:
  For certain high-cost dental services, your health fund might require pre-approval. This process involves submitting a treatment plan to the fund for approval before undergoing the procedure.

Contact your health fund directly to get detailed information about your cover, limits, and any waiting periods or pre-approval requirements. This will help you understand the extent of cover for your dental crown procedure.

A loose or fallen-out dental crown can be a concerning experience, but it’s a manageable situation. It’s important to act promptly and correctly to prevent further dental issues. Handling a loose or dislodged crown correctly can allow the tooth to remain protected and the crown to still be re-attachable. If your dental crown becomes loose or falls out, follow these steps:

1. Remove the crown if loose:
   If you notice the crown is loose, carefully take it out of your mouth. This prevents the risk of swallowing or inhaling it, which could lead to complications.
2. Store the crown safely:
   Place the removed crown in a small, secure container. This protects it from being lost or damaged. It’s important to bring this with you to your dental appointment for potential reattachment.
3. Contact your dentist immediately:
   Call your dentist as soon as you can. Explain the situation clearly and schedule an emergency dental appointment. The sooner you get professional help, the better the chances of reattaching the crown successfully.
4. Avoid chewing on the affected side:
   To protect the exposed tooth and reduce discomfort, refrain from chewing food on the side where the crown is located. This helps prevent further damage to the tooth and surrounding area.
5. Clean the crown and tooth gently:
   If possible, use a soft toothbrush to gently clean the inside of the crown and the exposed tooth. This helps remove any debris and keeps the area clean, reducing the risk of infection.
6. Temporary dental adhesive:
   If you’re unable to see your dentist immediately, you may use a temporary crown dental adhesive or some type of denture adhesive available at pharmacies. Apply a small amount to the inside of the crown and carefully place it back over the tooth. Avoid using super glue or other non-dental adhesives.
7. Attend your dental appointment:
   During your appointment, your dentist will assess the situation. They will clean the tooth and the crown, and if the crown and tooth are in good condition, they will reattach it. If the crown or tooth is damaged, they may need to prepare a new crown.

Following these steps allows you to manage a loose or fallen-out crown effectively. This is for maintaining oral health and preventing further complications until you receive professional dental care from our friendly team.

Yes, a dental crown can be used on a tooth that has undergone a root canal treatment. After root canal therapy, a tooth often needs a crown to restore its strength and functionality. The procedure takes out infected or damaged pulp, leaving the tooth more fragile and susceptible to breakage. A crown provides the necessary protection and structural support. Here’s a detailed explanation:

• Restoring strength:
  A root canal treatment can weaken a tooth, as it involves removing the tooth’s pulp. A crown restores strength, enabling the tooth to withstand the forces of biting and chewing.
• Preventing breakage:
  Teeth that have had a root canal treatment are more prone to fractures. A crown acts as a protective cover, significantly reducing the risk of breakage.
• Improving appearance:
  Root canal treatment can sometimes cause discolouration. A crown not only strengthens the tooth but also improves its appearance, offering a natural look.
• Long-term protection:
  Crowns on root canal-treated teeth provide long-term protection. They seal the tooth from bacteria, preventing future infections and tooth decay.

Using a crown on a tooth after a root canal is a common and effective practice. It enhances the longevity and health of the tooth while also maintaining a natural appearance.

While getting a dental crown is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks associated with it. These risks are relatively rare and can often be mitigated with proper dental care and technique. It’s important for patients to be aware of these potential risks when making decisions. The risks associated with getting a dental crown include:

• Tooth sensitivity:
  After crown placement, some patients may experience sensitivity to hot and cold. This can occur due to the process of shaping the tooth for the crown and usually subsides over time. Using desensitising toothpaste can help manage this sensitivity.
• Gum irritation:
  The area around the new crown can sometimes become irritated or inflamed. This usually happens due to the procedure itself or the materials used. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following post-procedure care instructions during the healing time can alleviate this issue.
• Allergic reaction:
  Although rare, some patients may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in crowns, such as metal. Discussing any known allergies with your dental team beforehand can help avoid this risk.
• Loosening or falling out:
  Crowns can sometimes become loose or fall out, often due to improper fitting or weakened dental cement. Regular dental check-ups allow for early detection and reattachment if necessary.
• Chipping:
  Porcelain crowns, in particular, can chip under pressure. Avoiding hard foods and not using teeth as tools can prevent this.

Understanding these risks and how they can be managed or avoided is important for anyone considering a dental crown. Maintain regular dental care and communication with our friendly team at Enso Dental North Perth to maximise the success and longevity of your dental crown.