Restorative Dentistry
Porcelain Crowns
Calgary, Alberta
For people with significant damage to their teeth, whether as a result of fracture, decay, or a failed restoration, a tooth crown is a good solution. The crown is a porcelain sheath that fits over the tooth, restoring it to its original shape and size. It protects and strengthens the tooth. At the Aesthetic Dental Studio we offer both three-quarter and full crowns.
Three-quarter Crown for Cusp Fracture
A tooth can be significantly weakened by the presence of a filling. Sometimes, as a result, the tooth will suffer what is known as a cusp fracture, in which a significant portion of the top of the tooth, or cusp, breaks off, leaving the tooth uneven, unsuitable for chewing, and vulnerable to further damage. In order to restore the tooth, old fillings are first removed and new fillings added to shape the tooth to receive the teeth crown. Then an impression of your tooth is made. At this time, you will be fitted with a temporary crown. A new crown is custom-crafted, then placed atop the damaged tooth.
Full Crown
In some cases, the tooth is best served with a full porcelain crown. This could be for several reasons. Sometimes an old or cracked filling has fostered further decay in an area where further filling is either not possible or not advisable. A large fracture of the tooth from trauma may also require a crown. Occasionally the tooth's root can been affected by decay, necessitating a root canal, leaving the tooth without a pulp. A tooth without a pulp is still functional, but the requirements for cleaning out a diseased pulp will leave the tooth too fragile. The best solution in all of these cases is a full crown.
After decay and old fillings have been removed, the tooth is prepared for the crown and an impression of the mouth is made. A new temporary crown is made for your tooth to last you while your new crown is custom-crafted at a lab. Finally, the permanent crown is bonded in place.
The Porcelain Advantage
Unlike old metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, the all-porcelain crown is an aesthetically ideal restoration. The porcelain has the same sheen and luster as dental enamel, and responds to the thermal changes in a similar fashion to minimize heat sensitivity or possible thermal cracking of the teeth. In addition, because porcelain has the same hardness as tooth enamel, the crown will neither damage nor be damaged by your other teeth.
To ensure maximum lifespan for this restoration, treat your crown as you would your teeth, with good dental hygiene and regular cleanings.
To find out more about porcelain crowns and whether they are good restorations for you, please watch these movies on the subject:
To get direct answers to your questions from dentist, Dr. Chee, Dr. Chernesky, or Dr. Geminiano, contact the Aesthetic Dental Studio in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to set up an appointment.
