A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that’s placed over a tooth that is damaged, weak, broken or discoloured. It’s not a conservative option for fixing teeth; in fact, between 0.5 and 2 mm of the teeth’s surfaces has to be removed, which leaves a sort of peg on which the crown can be fitted.

Often, your general dentist will explore other options first, and will only use crowns to restore the tooth when there are no other solutions. But does that mean that crowns are bad for your teeth? In this guide, The Dental Boutique looks at the risks involved with dental crowns, and why proper application is required to protect the natural teeth.

The importance of a proper application

For a procedure such as this, choosing a dentist you can trust is imperative. Check their credentials and take the time to visit their premises before you begin the treatment; make sure they’re using leading technology and have state-of-the-art facilities.

The entire procedure – including removing part of the natural tooth and then fitting a crown – has to be done correctly. When best practices are not adopted, clients could suffer from long-term temperature sensitivity or pain in the mouth. The bondings should also be done well, to prevent any decay from forming underneath the crown.

When properly applied by a qualified dentist, dental crowns are durable and long-lasting. They’re designed to protect the tooth structure and prevent decay, and the only impact to your natural teeth should be the initial removal of some enamel.

What are the risks of dental crowns?

An improperly applied crown could lead to risks – whether these occur immediately or over time. This could include:

• Sensitivity to heat and cold
• Pain or discomfort
• A chipped crown
• A crown that becomes loose, exposing the natural tooth and making it more vulnerable to decay
• A crown that falls off

What are the benefits of dental crowns?

Of course, dental crowns are used in general dental practices across Australia because they offer a number of advantages to patients. They provide a strong, long-lasting solution to dental problems including:

• Decayed teeth
• Teeth that have become worn
• Protection for a tooth following root canal therapy
• Holding a cracked/broken tooth in place
• Covering a dental implant
• Improving the appearance of a tooth’s shape or colour

Dental crowns are a long-term option – they can often be fitted in a single appointment and are expected to last between 5 and 15 years.

Are dental crowns right for you? Book an appointment to find out

To find out if a dental crown is right for you, the dentists at The Dental Boutique in the Gold Coast will carry out a comprehensive assessment of your needs. This will help us to understand how the problem developed, and create a bespoke treatment plan – whether this is same day crowns, ceramic crowns, or a more conservative solution such as dental veneers.

Perfect your smile with The Dental Boutique. Book your assessment by emailing us on [email protected] or calling (07) 5591 2262.