Fix Your Smile with Dental Crowns: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever had a tooth that’s been damaged, decayed, or weakened, you know how it can affect not just your smile, but your overall oral health. Dental crowns are an effective solution for restoring both the appearance and function of a compromised tooth. At Grand Dental in Surrey, BC, we offer high-quality dental crowns that can help you regain your confident smile. In this blog, we’ll explore what dental crowns are, the benefits they offer, and what you can expect during the treatment process.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a custom-made covering that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth. Crowns are designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. They’re typically made from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal, each chosen to match the color of your natural teeth and withstand the forces of chewing.

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Dental crowns are a versatile solution and may be recommended in several situations, including:

• Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth has a large cavity that’s too extensive for a filling, a crown can provide the necessary protection and restore the tooth’s function.
• Cracked or Fractured Teeth: Crowns can hold together parts of a cracked tooth and prevent further damage, especially for teeth that are subject to heavy biting forces.
• Following a Root Canal: After a root canal, a tooth can become brittle and more prone to breaking. A crown helps reinforce the tooth and restore its full function.
• Cosmetic Enhancements: Crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or worn-down teeth, giving you a more attractive smile.
• Dental Bridges: Crowns are used to anchor a dental bridge, filling the gap left by a missing tooth.

The Benefits of Dental Crowns

Choosing to restore your tooth with a dental crown comes with several significant benefits:

1. Restored Functionality
   • Crowns restore the full function of your tooth, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably. This is especially important for molars and other teeth that endure a lot of pressure during eating.
2. Durable and Long-Lasting
   • Dental crowns are made from strong, high-quality materials that can last many years with proper care. This durability makes them an excellent long-term investment in your oral health.
3. Natural Appearance
   • Porcelain and ceramic crowns are crafted to match the color and translucency of your natural teeth, ensuring that your restored tooth blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
4. Protection for Damaged Teeth
   • A crown provides a protective cover for a damaged or weakened tooth, preventing further decay or injury and potentially saving the tooth from extraction.
5. Improved Confidence
   • By restoring the appearance of a damaged or discolored tooth, crowns can significantly boost your confidence, allowing you to smile without hesitation.

What to Expect During the Dental Crown Process

Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to our Surrey office. Here’s what you can expect during each step:

1. Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation
   • During your first visit, we’ll examine the tooth that needs a crown and take X-rays to assess its condition. If a crown is the right solution, we’ll begin by numbing the tooth and surrounding area. Next, we’ll reshape the tooth by removing a portion of the outer structure to make room for the crown. Once the tooth is prepared, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to create a custom crown that fits perfectly.
2. Temporary Crown Placement
   • While your permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental lab, we’ll place a temporary crown to protect your tooth. This temporary crown will function just like your natural tooth, allowing you to eat and speak normally.
3. Permanent Crown Placement
   • At your second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is checked for fit and color. Once you and our dentist are satisfied with the appearance and fit, the crown is permanently bonded to your tooth using dental cement.
4. Final Adjustments and Care Instructions
   • After the crown is placed, we’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite. We’ll also provide you with care instructions to help maintain your crown and keep it in excellent condition for years to come.

Taking Care of Your Dental Crown

Caring for a dental crown is just like caring for your natural teeth. Here are a few tips to keep your crown and surrounding teeth healthy:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Keep your crown clean by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Pay special attention to the area where the crown meets the gumline to prevent plaque buildup.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Although crowns are durable, biting down on hard foods like ice or hard candy can damage them. Try to avoid these foods or be cautious when eating them.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Continue visiting Grand Dental every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. These visits allow us to monitor your crown and ensure your overall oral health.

Restore Your Smile at Grand Dental Today

If you’re dealing with a damaged, decayed, or unsightly tooth, a dental crown could be the perfect solution. At Grand Dental in Surrey, BC, we’re dedicated to helping you restore your smile and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, functional mouth.

Visit Us: 10741 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V3T 2W6

Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a beautiful, lasting smile!