What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. It encases the tooth completely, providing protection and reinforcement while restoring its shape and size. Crowns are designed to match the colour and contour of your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from the rest of your smile.
Crowns serve both functional and cosmetic purposes. They strengthen teeth that have been weakened by decay, cracks, or large fillings, and they can also improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, misshapen, or worn down. By covering the entire tooth, a crown distributes biting forces evenly and helps prevent further damage.
When You Might Need Dental Crowns in Niagara Falls
Several situations can make a dental crown the most appropriate treatment option. If you’ve had a root canal, a crown is typically placed over the treated tooth to protect it from fracture, as teeth can become more brittle after the procedure. Large cavities that leave minimal healthy tooth structure may require a crown rather than a filling to provide adequate support. Cracked or broken teeth often need crowns to hold the remaining structure together and prevent the damage from progressing.
Teeth that have been worn down over time from clenching or grinding may benefit from crowns to restore their original height and protect them from further wear. Crowns are also used to anchor dental bridges, replacing missing teeth by supporting the restoration on either side of the gap. During your examination, Dr. Sante Aceti or Dr. Juliana Galessiere will assess your tooth and recommend whether a crown is the right solution for your situation.
Types of Crowns We Offer
Crowns can be made from different materials, each with its own advantages. The choice depends on the location of the tooth, your aesthetic preferences, and functional requirements.
Porcelain crowns are popular for their natural appearance and ability to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth. They are particularly well suited for front teeth where aesthetics are a priority. Porcelain fused to metal crowns combine the strength of a metal base with a porcelain outer layer, offering durability and a natural appearance. Metal crowns, typically made from gold alloy or other metals, are strong and resistant to wear, making them a practical choice for back teeth that endure heavier chewing forces.
We will discuss the advantages of each material and help you choose the option that aligns with your needs and budget.
The Crown Placement Process
Getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments. During your first visit, we prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. Using digital impressions, we capture precise measurements of your tooth and the surrounding area to support an accurate fit. We also select a shade that matches your natural teeth to help the crown blend in seamlessly.
While your permanent crown is being fabricated, we place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. This temporary restoration allows you to eat and speak normally while you wait for your final crown.
At your second appointment, we remove the temporary crown and evaluate the fit and appearance of your permanent crown. Once everything looks and feels appropriate, we bond the crown securely to your tooth using dental cement and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable and natural.
Caring for Your Crown
With proper care, dental crowns in Niagara Falls can last many years. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to protecting both the crown and the tooth beneath it. Brush twice daily and floss around the crown as you would with your natural teeth. The margin where the crown meets your tooth is particularly important to keep clean, as this area can be vulnerable to decay if plaque accumulates.
Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects, as this can damage crowns. If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a nightguard to help protect your crown and surrounding teeth from excessive wear. Regular dental examinations allow us to monitor the condition of your crown and address any concerns early.
What to Expect After Getting a Crown
Some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures is normal in the days following crown placement, particularly if the tooth still has its nerve. This sensitivity typically subsides within a few weeks as the tooth adjusts. If you experience ongoing discomfort or pain when biting down, contact our office so we can evaluate the fit and make any necessary adjustments.
Your crown should feel comfortable and natural once you have adjusted to it. If your bite feels uneven or the crown seems too high, we can refine the surface to improve your comfort.
Restoring Strength and Confidence
Dental crowns offer a reliable way to repair damaged teeth and prevent further problems. They allow you to chew comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence while protecting your natural tooth structure. Whether you need a single crown or multiple crowns as part of a broader treatment plan, Dr. Sante Aceti and Dr. Juliana Galessiere will work with you to achieve results that support your oral health and meet your expectations.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown may be the solution you need. Contact Niagara Dental Centre today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Sante Aceti or Dr. Juliana Galessiere. We will examine your tooth, discuss your options, and develop a treatment plan designed to restore your smile and protect your oral health.