Bridges & Dental Crowns Winnipeg

Throughout our lives, our natural teeth endure a lot of damage—they chew tough foods, are subject to extreme temperatures, and may be damaged by impact. Naturally, our teeth require repairs once in a while to restore their functionality and appearance. An effective way to repair damaged teeth is by adding a dental crown.

Dental crowns (or caps) are used to protect, restore, and enhance your natural teeth. They address common oral health issues such as:

• Chips

• Cracks

• Stains

• Decay

• Recovery from a root canal

• Uneven teeth

Are dental crowns right for you? Keep reading to find out more about how a dental crown can improve your smile:

 

What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are made from porcelain, metal (like gold or an alloy), or porcelain fused to metal. Each material has its own advantages, so you should consult with your dentist to determine what’s best for you.

You can understand dental crowns as being an extra layer of protection for your teeth. Due to damage and decay, the natural structures of the teeth can be worn away, which leaves the enamel and roots exposed. This makes a tooth more vulnerable to infections. With a dental crown, that area is completely sealed by a protective cap.

The process of applying dental crowns takes several steps and may take 2 or 3 appointments. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during a dental crown procedure:

1. First, a local anaesthetic is administered. This will numb the area so that the procedure is painless. The broken tooth is shaved down and any decay is removed completely. This ensures that the dental crown will fit firmly and accurately to the broken tooth. In some situations, a root canal may be required to remove damaged or infected tissue.
2. Then, a customized mould is made of the tooth. This is done so that the dental crown fits your specific tooth.
3. Next, the impression is sent to a dental lab, where the final dental crown is designed and produced.
4. Finally, your dentist will permanently cement the dental crown to your tooth. It creates a strong bond that can withstand chewing, acidic beverages, and harmful bacteria.

Once your procedure is complete, you can get back to enjoying your life without worrying about cracked, sensitive, or stained teeth.

 

Who Needs a Dental Crown?

For small cavities that are caught early on, a filling is often enough to replace the decayed material and restore the tooth. But when more extensive decay occurs, a dental crown may be required to protect the entire tooth and repair its structure.

Are you considering a dental crown, but aren’t sure if it’s right for you? Keep in mind the following benefits:

• Dental crowns can restore your confidence. A porcelain dental crown will blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth—you won’t be able to tell a difference! Some people choose to get dental crowns solely for aesthetic purposes; they want to cover stains, discolouration, or misshapen teeth. By restoring your damaged teeth, you’ll feel confident each time you flash your smile!

 

• Reduce your sensitivity to extreme temperatures. If you have a large cavity, the tooth enamel may be exposed to hot, cold, or acidic substances. A crown will completely surround the tooth so that you’re protected from sensitivity. However, in the days following your procedure, your tooth may be sensitive as it heals.

 

• Protect your natural tooth. Teeth with chips and cracks may be more susceptible to breaking under the stresses of chewing or trauma.  They may suffer further damage to the point where an extraction is deemed necessary. Dental crowns work ideally in this situation—they’re your last defence against losing a tooth. Due to the invasive nature of a root canal, there will not be enough structure to support a filling after the procedure. Dental crowns are recommended on molars that have had root canal treatment to protect the tooth.

 

• Cracked teeth can make it difficult and painful to eat the foods you love. A cracked tooth may have a structural weakness that will cause pain when the tooth is under functional stress.  If you find yourself wincing in pain when you try to enjoy your favorite meal,  a crown will restore your ability to chew your favourite foods.

 

• They’re incredibly durable. Some patients are hesitant to invest in dental crowns due to the upfront cost. They wonder if it may be better to leave the tooth be or have it extracted. However, we need our teeth to last us a lifetime. A crown can help you protect and preserve these essential tools.

 

Difference Between Crowns and Bridges

Another popular procedure in restorative dentistry is with the use of dental bridge. Dental crowns are also used in this procedure, but a bit differently.

Dentures aren’t the only way to fill gaps in your smile. Patients with a missing tooth or several missing teeth can benefit from a dental bridge. With this procedure, an artificial tooth is inserted in the space where the tooth is missing. Then, to support it, a crown is bonded to the other teeth on either side of the artificial tooth. This provides functionality and a natural aesthetic. And it’s much cheaper than dental implant.

So, what’s the difference between these two procedures? Crowns are used mainly for restorative, preventative, and aesthetic purposes; they’re attached to the structure of a natural tooth. On the other hand, dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth and are supported by dental crowns.

If you have one decaying tooth, a crown might be the best fit for you; if you have a missing tooth or several missing teeth, a bridge is one option!

 

Take Care of Your Crowns

By following these tips, you can make your dental crowns last for years. After your procedure, be sure to practice the following:

• Stay away from hard foods. If you’re a fan of chewing ice or hard candies, it’s time to give it up! These foods can damage your crown and shorten its lifespan. Even though crowns are durable, the force of your jaws is powerful enough to damage them. Try to avoid food that may damage your crown.

 

• Visit the dentist regularly. You may not look forward to your semi-annual cleaning, but maintaining oral hygiene is a great way to protect your crown (and your other teeth, too!). Besides, with our compassionate and friendly dentists, you’ll feel more comfortable in the dentist’s chair than you’d expect.

 

• Brush and floss every day! Keeping your crown clean is the best way to ensure its longevity. Strong brushing and flossing habits will fend off bacteria, decay, and stains.

When dental crowns are taken care of, they can last for 10 years or longer—now that’s an investment that pays off!

 

Book an Appointment

Interested in scheduling a procedure for Winnipeg dental crowns? Call Fresh Dental! At our clinic, you will be treated by a compassionate, honest, and experienced dental team. We utilize the most modern technology to provide high-quality treatment to patients of all ages.

If you’re interested in improving your oral hygiene, protecting your teeth, and restoring your smile, please view our other services. We’re proud to provide comprehensive dental care in Winnipeg.