Dental crowns are used to restore the appearance, shape and function of damaged or decayed teeth. Often referred to as a “cap,” a crown covers and protects a tooth whose structure has deteriorated due to a large filling, root canal or fracture. Once in place, the crown makes it so the tooth feels and functions like one of your natural teeth.
What are the types of dental crowns? There are three basic types of dental crowns, each of which offers certain advantages. • Full gold. These metal crowns are long lasting and won’t chip or break over time. However, most people find that they aren’t aesthetically pleasing since they don’t resemble natural teeth. They’re usually placed on teeth at the back of the mouth where they’re harder to see. • Porcelain-fused-to-metal. The metal base of these crowns makes them highly durable while the porcelain coating makes them look more like your natural teeth. However, while they’re less noticeable than gold crowns, they can’t fully capture the look of natural teeth as light cannot pass through the metal base. • Full ceramic. Full ceramic crowns look the most natural. These crowns don’t contain metal and are composed entirely of dental ceramic, creating an exterior that mimics the translucent and reflective quality of real teeth. Although ceramic crowns were once more susceptible to chips and cracks, advances in dental technology now make them a durable as well as aesthetic option. How much do crowns cost? The cost of dental crowns varies considerably based on the type of crown that you choose and the condition of your tooth. Most Canadian dental insurance plans offer coverage for dental crowns as long as they aren’t for purely cosmetic reasons. Check your plan to make sure it covers the cost of your crown. What will the procedure be like? The procedure for getting a dental crown typically occurs over two appointments. The dentist begins by administering a local anaesthetic and then reduces the tooth to make room for the crown. Afterwards, he or she makes an impression of your prepped tooth, which is used to create the permanent crown. After taking the impression, a temporary crown is put in place. Between the appointments, a dental laboratory constructs a crown fitted to your tooth. During the second visit, the permanent crown is placed on your tooth. After checking that the crown fits well and doesn’t interfere with your bite, the dentist cements it into place. Consult a dental professional to learn more If you’re in need of a dental crown in Kamloops, the dentists at Aberdeen Dental Arts are here to advise you on how to proceed. Contact us to schedule an appointment.