Dental Crowns Lacombe: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, you’re not alone. Dental Crowns Lacombe patients receive are one of the most common restorative treatments in modern dentistry. A crown can save a damaged tooth, restore your bite, and protect your smile for years to come. At Aurora Dental Group, Dr. Brock Wilde helps patients understand exactly what crowns are and when they’re the right choice.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a natural tooth. It covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline. Crowns restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are designed to blend in naturally with your surrounding teeth.

Crowns can be made from several different materials. These include porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Your dentist will recommend the best material based on the tooth’s location and your specific needs. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular because they closely match natural tooth colour.

Crowns are a key part of Restorative Dentistry at our Lacombe practice. They work alongside other treatments to rebuild damaged or weakened teeth. Understanding your options helps you make confident decisions about your oral health.

When Do You Need Dental Crowns in Lacombe?

Not every damaged tooth requires a crown. However, certain situations make a crown the best solution. Dr. Wilde assesses each case individually to determine the right approach. There are several common reasons a crown may be recommended.

• A tooth is severely cracked or broken
• A large cavity has destroyed too much tooth structure for a filling
• A tooth has undergone root canal treatment and needs protection
• A tooth is badly worn down from grinding or acid erosion
• A dental bridge needs support from an anchor tooth
• A tooth has a significant cosmetic concern affecting your confidence

Crowns are also used to cover dental implants. They replace missing teeth and restore full chewing function. If you’ve recently had a root canal, your dentist may recommend a crown right away. This protects the treated tooth from fracture over time.

Sometimes patients also need crowns alongside Dental Bridges. Bridge anchor teeth require crowns to hold the bridge securely in place. Your treatment plan will depend on your unique dental situation.

The Dental Crown Procedure: Step by Step

Getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments. Knowing what to expect helps reduce any anxiety about the process. Dr. Wilde and the Aurora Dental Group team make every effort to keep you comfortable throughout.

1. Consultation and examination: Dr. Wilde examines your tooth and takes X-rays. This helps assess the roots and surrounding bone. A treatment plan is created based on your needs.
2. Tooth preparation: The tooth is shaped to make room for the crown. A small amount of enamel is removed from the outer surface. Local anaesthetic ensures you stay comfortable during this step.
3. Impressions: Detailed impressions of your prepared tooth are taken. These are sent to a dental laboratory. A temporary crown protects the tooth while your permanent crown is made.
4. Crown placement: At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed. The permanent crown is checked for fit and colour match. Once everything looks right, the crown is permanently cemented in place.

The entire process is straightforward and well-tolerated by most patients. You may experience some sensitivity after preparation, but this is temporary. Your new crown should feel natural within a short adjustment period.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last between 10 and 15 years or longer. Some patients keep their crowns for two decades or more. The lifespan depends largely on your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle factors. Grinding your teeth, for example, can wear a crown down faster.

Maintaining your crown is simple. Brush twice daily and floss around the crowned tooth every day. Avoid chewing very hard foods like ice or hard candies. Regular checkups at Aurora Dental Group help monitor crown condition over time.

Routine Dental Cleanings are especially important for crowned teeth. Plaque can still accumulate at the gumline around a crown. Professional cleanings remove buildup that brushing alone cannot address. This helps prevent gum disease and decay at the crown margin.

If your crown chips, loosens, or causes persistent discomfort, contact our office promptly. Early attention prevents small issues from becoming bigger problems. Caring for your crown is an investment in your long-term oral health.

Dental Crowns vs. Other Restorative Options

It’s natural to wonder whether a crown is truly necessary. Sometimes a large filling or a different treatment might work instead. Dr. Wilde always explains your options clearly before recommending any procedure. The goal is always the most conservative treatment that achieves lasting results.

Here’s a quick comparison of dental crowns and common alternatives:

• Fillings: Best for small to moderate cavities. Not suitable when too little healthy tooth structure remains.
• Inlays/Onlays: A middle ground between fillings and full crowns. Cover part of the tooth rather than the whole surface.
• Veneers: Thin shells placed on the front of teeth. Used mainly for cosmetic improvements, not structural repair.
• Tooth extraction: A last resort when the tooth cannot be saved. May be followed by a bridge or implant to replace the missing tooth.
• Dental crowns: The best option when the tooth needs full coverage, strength, and protection.

Dr. Wilde takes time to explain why a crown is recommended in your specific case. You’ll always receive a clear explanation before any treatment begins. Informed patients make better decisions about their dental care.

Caring for Your Smile After a Crown

After your crown is placed, a few simple habits protect your investment. Avoid very sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours. This gives the cement time to fully set. After that, most patients return to their normal diet without any issues.

If you grind your teeth at night, ask Dr. Wilde about a nightguard. Grinding puts significant pressure on crowns and natural teeth alike. A custom nightguard reduces this pressure and extends the life of your crown. It’s a small step that makes a significant difference.

Keep attending your regular dental checkups every six months. During these visits, Dr. Wilde will examine your crown for signs of wear. Early detection of any issue means simpler and less costly solutions. Consistent preventive care is the foundation of a healthy smile in Lacombe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does getting a dental crown hurt?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the crown procedure. Local anaesthetic is used during tooth preparation to keep you comfortable. Some mild sensitivity may occur for a few days after, but this typically resolves on its own.

How do I know if I need a dental crown or just a filling?

This depends on how much healthy tooth structure remains. A filling works well for smaller areas of decay. When a cavity is large, or when the tooth is cracked or weakened, a crown provides better protection. Dr. Wilde will examine your tooth and explain which option is right for you.

Can a crowned tooth still get a cavity?

The crown itself cannot decay, but the natural tooth structure underneath can. Decay can develop at the margin where the crown meets the gumline. This is why daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings are so important, even for crowned teeth.

How long will I have a temporary crown before my permanent one is ready?

Temporary crowns are usually worn for one to two weeks. This is the time it takes for the dental laboratory to craft your custom permanent crown. The temporary crown protects your prepared tooth and maintains your appearance during this period.

Is a dental crown covered for children and teens?

Crowns can be placed on adult teeth in older teens when necessary. For younger children, stainless steel crowns are sometimes used on baby teeth to protect them until they naturally fall out. If you have questions about your child’s dental needs, our team at Aurora Dental Group is happy to help. You can also explore our Pediatric Dentistry services for more information.

At Aurora Dental Group in Lacombe, AB, Dr. Brock Wilde and our team are committed to helping you understand every aspect of your dental care. Whether you need a crown to restore a damaged tooth or simply want to learn more about your options, we’re here to guide you. Book Now to schedule your appointment with our team.