Capping a tooth for strength and appearance

Capping a tooth for strength and appearance

A look at both the practical and cosmetic role of dental crowns.

The dental crown is a well established procedure that is in common use at dental practices across the world.

It can be used to improve both the strength and the appearance of a tooth, as our Bromley cosmetic dentist explains.

Broken teeth

The most common use of a dental crown is where a tooth has broken. In the event of it actually snapping, perhaps due to an accident, a crown is an obvious choice. Key to success though is prompt action on the part of the patient. Breaking a tooth can lead to the dentin layer being exposed, and, if not attended to quickly, can allow bacteria to access the area and cause tooth decay.

If left for a long period of time, it may be that the tooth goes beyond saving and has to be extracted. Whilst there are effective replacement methods such as dental implants; at the Smile Dental Practice we prefer to save the natural tooth wherever possible.

Large fillings

Where decay has taken hold to the extent that a filling would not provide a tooth with sufficient strength for everyday use, a crown is often used instead. This offers both strength and longevity. In some cases, however, inlays or onlays may be preferable and this will be discussed following examination of your damaged teeth.

Dental bridge

Where a dental bridge is used to replace a missing tooth, or teeth, a crown is often needed either side of the artificial replacement teeth, in order to hold the bridge in place. This entails preparation of the teeth either side of the gap, after which the crowns that hold the bridge in place, are attached securely using strong dental adhesive.

Root canal treatment

To perform a root canal procedure, it is necessary to remove the top of the tooth in order to access the canals. Even once the canals have been treated and filled, this can leave the tooth significantly weakened. To both strengthen the tooth and add aesthetic appeal, a dental crown, usually made of porcelain, is added to the top of the tooth to give it a natural appearance.

Dental implant

Another key area of dentistry where the crown is used, is to complete a dental implant. Whilst the titanium implant that is placed into the jawbone is an essential part of this procedure, the crown attached to the implant gives it its practical use, as well as aesthetic appeal.

If you would like to know more about crowns and how we use them at our Bromley dental practice we’d be delighted to assist. To arrange a consultation with one of our team, please call the Smile Dental Practice on 020 8462 2473 where one of our friendly reception team will deal with your call.