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Dental Crowns

Achieve a Stunning, Confident Smile: Unraveling the Art and Science of Dental Crowns for a Brilliant Transformation

Dental Crowns

A gleaming smile can do wonders for one's self-esteem, but what if your teeth have taken a beating over the years? Dental crowns may be the solution you've been searching for. Here we'll delve into the world of dental crowns, their purpose, and how they can transform your smile.

First, let's get to the root of the matter. A dental crown, often referred to as a "cap," is a custom-made cover placed over a damaged tooth. This restorative procedure can help to strengthen and protect the tooth, while also improving its appearance. Dental crowns are commonly used for a variety of reasons, from chipped or broken teeth to severe decay and discolouration.

Now, you may be wondering what dental crowns are made of. Traditionally, dental crowns were fabricated using gold or other metals, which are incredibly strong and durable. However, the demand for a more natural appearance has led to the development of porcelain and ceramic crowns, which can be colour-matched to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. There are also crowns made from a combination of metal and porcelain, offering both strength and aesthetic appeal.

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. An impression of your tooth will then be taken, which is sent to a dental laboratory where your custom crown will be crafted. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth until the permanent crown is ready.

At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent one is carefully cemented into place. Your dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments, ensuring a comfortable and secure result. With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer.

Despite these potential downsides, dental crowns have proven to be an effective solution for many people in need of tooth restoration. If you're considering a dental crown, consult with your dentist to discuss your options and determine if this procedure is the best course of action for your unique situation. With the right approach, you can reclaim your radiant smile and enjoy the confidence it brings.

Dental crowns are a versatile solution for many dental issues, but what exactly prompts the need for this restorative treatment?  Here we'll explore the various reasons why a dental crown may be recommended by your dentist and the benefits it can offer.

  1. Damaged teeth: One of the primary reasons for needing a dental crown is a damaged tooth. Teeth can crack, chip, or break due to injury, accidents, or biting on hard objects. A dental crown can restore the tooth's shape, size, and strength, protecting it from further damage and preventing complications such as tooth loss.

  2. Extensive decay: When a tooth has experienced significant decay, a simple filling may not be sufficient to restore its structure and function. In such cases, a dental crown can be used to cover and reinforce the tooth after the decay has been removed, safeguarding it from additional harm and restoring its appearance.

  3. Root canal treatment: After a root canal procedure, the tooth's structure is often weakened and more susceptible to fractures. Placing a dental crown over the treated tooth provides necessary reinforcement and protection, ensuring the longevity of the tooth and the success of the root canal treatment.

  4. Dental bridge support: When replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge, dental crowns are used on the adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth, to support the bridge. These crowns provide a stable foundation for the bridge, ensuring proper function and aesthetics.

  5. Cosmetic enhancement: Dental crowns can also be used for purely cosmetic reasons. If a tooth is severely discolored, misshapen, or worn down, a dental crown can be placed to improve its appearance and give you a more confident and attractive smile.

  6. Dental implant restoration: Dental crowns serve as the final step in the dental implant process. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, a custom-made dental crown is attached to the implant's abutment, completing the tooth replacement and restoring both function and appearance.

In conclusion, dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution for a wide range of dental issues.  If you think you may need a dental crown or are facing any of the problems mentioned above, consult your dentist to discuss your options and determine if a dental crown is the best course of action for your specific needs. With the right treatment plan in place, you can enjoy a healthy and radiant smile for years to come.

In our quest for optimal dental health and a perfect smile, we may encounter the need for dental crowns to restore and protect damaged teeth. Here we'll explore the various materials used to craft dental crowns and their advantages and disadvantages.

Dental crowns can be made from a wide range of materials, each with its unique properties and benefits. Let's examine the most common ones:

  1. Metal crowns Metal crowns, such as gold alloy, palladium, nickel, or chromium, have been used in dentistry for decades. These crowns are exceptionally durable and can withstand strong biting forces. Metal crowns are ideal for out-of-sight molars, where their metallic appearance is less noticeable. The main drawbacks include potential allergies to specific metals and the visible contrast with natural teeth.

  2. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns PFM crowns provide a balance between strength and aesthetics. A metal base ensures durability, while the porcelain exterior can be colour-matched to your surrounding teeth for a natural look. However, over time, the metal may show through the porcelain as a dark line near the gumline. Additionally, the porcelain can wear down adjacent teeth if not polished properly.

  3. All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns These crowns offer the most natural appearance, making them an excellent choice for front teeth. All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns are biocompatible, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. The downside is that they may not be as strong as their metal counterparts, making them less suitable for patients with bruxism or those requiring crowns on molars.

  4. Zirconia crowns Zirconia crowns are a relatively recent addition to the world of dental materials. They combine the strength of metal crowns with the aesthetics of all-ceramic crowns. Zirconia is biocompatible and can be colour-matched to your natural teeth. However, these crowns can be more expensive than other materials.

  5. Resin crowns Resin crowns are the most affordable option, but they may not be the most long-lasting. They are more prone to wear and tear, which could lead to the need for replacement sooner than other materials. Their main advantage is the lower cost, making them an accessible option for those on a tight budget.

The choice of material for your dental crown will depend on various factors, including the location of the tooth, your budget, and your personal preferences. You should of course discuss your options with your dentist to find the best solution for your unique needs. A well-crafted dental crown can restore your tooth's function and appearance, giving you the confidence to smile brightly once more.

Preparing a tooth for a dental crown usually requires two - three appointments – the first step involves examining and preparing the tooth, the second visit involves placement of the permanent crown.

Examining and preparing the tooth. At the first visit, your dentist may take a few x-rays to check the roots of the tooth receiving the dental crown and surrounding bone. If the tooth has extensive decay or if there is a risk of infection or injury to the tooth’s pulp, a root canal treatment may first be performed.

Before the process of making your dental crown is begun, your dentist will anaesthetize your tooth and the gum tissue around the tooth. Next, the tooth receiving the crown is filed down along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown. The amount removed depends on the type of dental crown used (for instance, all-metal crowns are thinner, requiring less tooth structure removal than all-porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal ones). If on the other hand, a large area of the tooth is missing (due to decay or damage); your dentist will use filling material to “build up” the tooth enough to support the crown.

After reshaping the tooth, your dentist will use impression paste or putty to make an impression of the tooth to receive the crown. Impressions of the teeth above and below the tooth to receive the dental crown will also be made to make sure that the crown will not affect your bite.

The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where the dental crown will be manufactured. The crown is usually returned to your dentist’s office in 5 -14 days (in Budapest 5 and in London 14). Your dentist will also select the shade that most closely matches the colour of the neighbouring teeth. During this first office visit your dentist will make a temporary crown to cover and protect the prepared tooth while the crown is being made. Temporary crowns usually are made of acrylic and are held in place using a temporary cement.

Receiving the permanent dental crown. At your second visit, your dentist will remove your temporary crown and check the fit and colour of the permanent crown. If everything is acceptable, a local anaesthetic will be used to numb the tooth and the new crown is permanently cemented in place.  Some degree of pain and sensitivity is normal for a weeks or so and the tooth should settle down naturally.  Your new crown may require a small bite adjustment to achieve a comfortable fit.

Dental crowns can transform the appearance and function of damaged teeth, but how long can you expect these restorations to last? Here we'll discuss the longevity of dental crowns and the factors that can impact their lifespan.

The lifespan of a dental crown can vary significantly, with estimates ranging from 5 to 15 years or even longer. However, it's essential to note that several factors can influence a crown's longevity, such as the material used, the location of the crown, and the patient's oral hygiene habits.

  1. Material: Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), all-ceramic or all-porcelain, zirconia, and resin. Generally, metal and zirconia crowns tend to be the most durable, while resin crowns are more prone to wear and tear. It's crucial to consider the strength and longevity of the material when choosing a dental crown.

  2. Location: The position of the crown in the mouth can also impact its lifespan. Crowns placed on molars experience more pressure and force from chewing and grinding, which can cause them to wear out faster than crowns on front teeth. As a result, it's essential to select a material that can withstand the demands of the tooth's location.

  3. Oral hygiene: Proper dental care plays a significant role in the lifespan of dental crowns. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help maintain the health of the tooth and surrounding gum tissue, ensuring the crown remains securely in place. In contrast, poor oral hygiene can lead to complications, such as decay or gum disease, which can compromise the integrity of the crown.

  4. Bruxism: Patients who suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding, may experience more rapid wear and tear on their dental crowns. It's crucial for individuals with bruxism to discuss this with their dentist, as some materials may be more suitable for withstanding the forces generated by grinding.

  5. Dental check-ups and professional maintenance: Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of dental crowns. Your dentist can identify any issues with your crown early, such as signs of wear or loosening, and provide appropriate treatment or recommendations for prolonging its life.

Although dental crowns have a finite lifespan, proper care and maintenance can help extend their longevity. You should of course discuss your expectations and concerns with your dentist when considering a dental crown. By working together, you can ensure your dental crown serves you well for years to come, safeguarding your smile and oral health.

In the world of dental restorations, zirconia crowns have emerged as a popular choice for their remarkable blend of strength and aesthetics. Here we'll dive into what zirconia crowns are and how they are crafted to restore your smile.

Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a durable, biocompatible material that has been widely used in medical applications, such as hip replacements and dental implants. Zirconia boasts remarkable strength and fracture resistance, making it an ideal choice for dental crowns. In addition to its durability, zirconia can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a lifelike appearance.

The process of creating a zirconia crown involves several steps, combining both traditional dental techniques and cutting-edge technology:

  1. Consultation and examination: Your dentist will assess your tooth to determine if a zirconia crown is the best solution for your needs. This may involve taking X-rays, examining the tooth, and discussing your dental history and preferences.

  2. Tooth preparation: After numbing the area with local anesthesia, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay or damaged tooth structure and shaping the tooth to accommodate the crown.

  3. Impression: Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will take an impression using dental putty or a digital scanner. This impression will be sent to our dental laboratory, where technicians will create your custom zirconia crown.

  4. CAD/CAM technology: Dental technicians utilize computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology to create a precise digital model of your tooth based on the impression. The model is used to design the zirconia crown, ensuring a perfect fit and natural appearance.

  5. Milling: The digital design is then sent to a milling machine, which carefully sculpts the zirconia crown from a solid block of zirconium dioxide. This process ensures that the crown is made to the exact specifications of the digital model, providing a highly accurate and consistent result.

  6. Customization: After milling, the zirconia crown is polished and stained to match the color of your natural teeth. The dental technician may also apply a glaze to enhance the crown's appearance and mimic the luster of tooth enamel.

  7. Fitting and cementation: Once your custom zirconia crown is ready, your dentist will place it on your prepared tooth, checking the fit and making any necessary adjustments. When the fit is perfect, the crown is cemented into place, completing the restoration.

Zirconia crowns offer a remarkable balance of strength and aesthetics, making them a popular choice for many patients seeking dental restorations. We encourage you to discuss your options with your dentist to determine if a zirconia crown is the right choice for you. With the right dental solution in place, you can enjoy a beautifully restored smile and the confidence that comes with it.

Emma's Story

Emma Powerell’s problems started as a child when many of her adult teeth failed to grow. She was left with baby teeth that were out of proportion with her adult face and were also crooked. As she grew up, Emma perfected her closed mouth, ‘Victoria Beckham’ style smile. Whilst she knew it made her look tense and unhappy, at least she wasn’t showing her crooked, baby teeth.

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  • Step 1 - Consultation and Most Dental Work

    London

    Initial Consultations • Fully Costed Treatment Plans • Implants • Hygiene Sessions • Fillings • Extractions • Crowns • Bridges • Veneers

  • Step 2 - Major Work and Makeovers

    Budapest

    Range of Implants • Full surgical procedures • Dentures • Cosmetic procedures • Largest clinic in Budapest • On-site technicians • Biggest Savings

  • Step 3 - Aftercare

    London

    Check-ups • Hygiene Treatments • Adjustments • On-going Care

The Smile Savers’ Experience

  • Step 1 - Consultation and Most Dental Work

    London

    Initial Consultations • Fully Costed Treatment Plans • Implants • Hygiene Sessions • Fillings • Extractions • Crowns • Bridges • Veneers

  • Step 2 - Major Work and Makeovers

    Budapest

    Range of Implants • Full surgical procedures • Dentures • Cosmetic procedures • Largest clinic in Budapest • On-site technicians • Biggest Savings

  • Step 3 - Aftercare

    London

    Check-ups • Hygiene Treatments • Adjustments • On-going Care

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