Dental Crowns Mississauga
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth while restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly recommended for teeth that have been extensively damaged by decay, fractures, large fillings, or root canal treatment. They can also be used to restore the appearance of severely discoloured or misshapen teeth and, in some cases, to complete a dental implant restoration.
The Role of Dental Crowns in Restoring Teeth
Dental crowns, sometimes called tooth caps, are designed to cover the visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. Unlike a dental filling, which replaces a smaller portion of a damaged tooth, a crown surrounds the remaining tooth structure to provide additional support and protection. Depending on the location of the tooth and your individual needs, crowns may be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or other dental materials selected for their strength and appearance.
A dental crown can restore a tooth that has lost significant structure while helping it function normally. For teeth that are visible when you smile, a tooth-coloured crown can also be designed to blend with the surrounding teeth for a natural-looking result.
When Might a Dental Crown Be Recommended?
- A large filling has fractured or no longer provides adequate support
- A significant portion of the tooth has been lost due to decay
- The tooth has extensive structural damage or a fracture
- A weakened tooth needs additional protection from further damage
- The tooth requires restoration following root canal therapy
- A severely discoloured, misshapen, or worn tooth needs cosmetic improvement
- A damaged or heavily worn tooth needs to be restored for improved function
- A dental implant requires a crown to replace the visible portion of a missing tooth
The Process of Getting a Dental Crown
The dental crown process begins with an examination and consultation with one of our dentists. Your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth, surrounding gums, and your bite to determine whether a crown is the appropriate restoration. If a crown is recommended, the tooth is carefully prepared by removing a small amount of tooth structure to create space for the restoration and allow the crown to fit securely.
After the tooth has been prepared, our dentist will take an impression or digital scan of the tooth and surrounding area. This information is used to create a custom dental crown that matches the required shape, size, and colour. A temporary crown may be placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made at the dental laboratory.
At your next appointment, the permanent crown is carefully tried in and evaluated for fit, appearance, and bite. Once the dentist is satisfied with the restoration, the crown is permanently cemented in place. The result is a restored tooth designed to provide both functional support and a natural-looking appearance.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Depending on your individual dental needs, a crown can help protect a weakened tooth from further damage, restore chewing function, and improve the appearance of a damaged or discoloured tooth. With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a properly maintained crown can be a long-term solution for restoring a compromised tooth.
