CROWNS ARE USED FOR MANY REASONS.
MOST COMMONLY TO PROTECT OR COVER A BROKEN OR SEVERELY DECAYED TOOTH
E-max crowns – the latest in dental technology
As a patient you want the best for your teeth since they are a vital part of your overall well-being. You want them to look perfect so that you won’t have to compromise on your smile. You feel confident when your smile is perfect and dazzling. However, it may be confusing sometimes as to what treatment you should go for. Here we will walk you through the different types of crowns available and which among them is the best for you.
What is a crown?
A dental crown or cap is a sort of covering for the tooth or teeth which can be used in a variety of cases. The basic function is to protect the tooth. In many cases, however, it may be used to change the appearance of tooth/teeth. They can broadly be of two types: ceramic combined with metal and those made up of only ceramic.
Metal ceramic crowns are the traditional ones which are less expensive but do not give as satisfactory results as ceramic crowns do. On the other hand, all ceramic crowns are a bit more expensive but have far better aesthetics and are specially preferred for front teeth because the colour of the crown matches exactly your tooth colour. Both zirconia and E-max are all ceramic crowns.
Crowns are not directly placed on the tooth. the tooth is first prepared by filing it a little from all sides (depending on the condition of the tooth). Then an impression is taken of the tooth which is sent to the lab for fabrication of the crown. Each crown is custom made according to the size of the original tooth. If more than one tooth requires capping, it may take longer and may even require a temporary crown for a short while. When the new crown is returned to the dentist, it will be cemented to the tooth. This whole procedure may take 2-3 visits to your dentist.
When do you need one?
Dental crowns can be used in varied scenarios. For example, if you have undergone a root canal treatment for a tooth infection, a crown is required to protect the treated tooth from damage since the natural tooth becomes brittle after such procedures, and also may discolour over time. Also, often crowns will be placed for aesthetic purposes. Stains which cannot be managed by bleaching methods such as those caused by fluorides, may require a crown to cover them. They are also needed for bridges where support from adjacent teeth is required to replace missing tooth.
What is an E-max crown?
These are special type of crowns made from lithium disilicate material. Also, these crowns are made from a single block of this material which makes it a high strength crown. Lithium disilicate is known for its superior strength and appealing aesthetics as a restorative crown material. E-max crowns are slightly translucent and hence come closest to matching your teeth colour. This property has made it a popular choice for crown restoration especially in front teeth.
How is a Crown Fitted?
Before we can place your new crown the original tooth will need to be prepared. This will involve removing any old fillings and grinding the tooth down under a local anaesthetic. This will make space for the crown to sit level with your other teeth. Once the original tooth is suitably prepared an impression will be taken and used to manufacture your crown.
During the manufacturing process (which should take around 2 weeks), a temporary acrylic crown will be placed on the tooth.
At your next appointment, the crown will be checked for fit and size to ensure optimum comfort. Once you are happy, it will be securely fixed in place with a dental adhesive.
You will need to be careful with your crown in the first few hours and days after fitting- avoid biting on any hard foods so that you don’t cause any damage.
Remember that your crown could be damaged over time by hard foods- attend regular dental check-ups so any problem can be spotted early.
Contact Us today to book a consultation and find out how we can help you make your dream smile a reality.
