When does my tooth need a crown?

 

The outside of each tooth is made of enamel, which is extremely hard. Although teeth are strong a crown is recommended if there is:

 

• Substantial chips or broken teeth/fillings due to fall or any other type of trauma.
• Tooth decay may also severely weaken a tooth, with a high risk that the tooth may fall apart.
• Root canal treatment, where the pulp of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels is removed, can also weaken a tooth.
• Large fillings can reduce a tooth’s strength and eventually the tooth can break.
• Tooth wear over time can dramatically reduce the size of a tooth and even expose the nerve Cosmetic needs can also be treated with crowns, restoring tooth strength, function and enhancing the overall health and beauty of your mouth.
• Very crooked teeth can sometimes be dramatically improved with crowns if braces or porcelain veneers are not suitable.

 

A crown fits over the existing natural crown, the part of the tooth seen above the gums.

 

Most crowns on front teeth are made of full porcelain, like veneers, and look every bit as natural, leaving no black line at gum level like traditional crowns. Porcelain crowns are as strong as natural teeth and are also recommended for replacing old crowns on front teeth.

 

Other types of crowns, particularly on the back teeth, contain a high gold alloy and have porcelain fused onto the gold alloy. Our expert advanced dental technician also ensures this type of crown will look as real as a healthy tooth. On rare occasions full gold crowns are used when the back tooth is in an extremely heavy bite situation and clearance levels are minimal. The gold contains alloys to enhance its strength.

 

Dental bridges literally bridge a gap left by one or more missing teeth. Not only are bridges a good way to eliminate gaps, but they can also improve your appearance.

 

Furthermore, bridges can improve speaking, chewing and stress on nearby teeth.