Dental crowns, often referred to as "caps," are restorations that cover or encase a damaged tooth. They are designed to restore the tooth's shape, strength, and function, while also enhancing its appearance. At Brite Dental, with practices in Paisley, Bridge of Weir, Clarkston and Edinburgh, we offer expert solutions for patients requiring dental crowns.

When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

Several situations may necessitate the placement of a dental crown:

• Protecting a Weakened Tooth: Teeth weakened by decay or fractures may be at risk of breaking. A crown provides a protective cover, preventing further damage and preserving the tooth's integrity.
• Restoring a Broken or Severely Worn Tooth: Teeth that are broken or extensively worn down can benefit from crowns, which restore their original shape and functionality.
• Supporting a Tooth with a Large Filling: When a tooth has a large filling and not much natural tooth remaining, a crown can support and protect the remaining structure.
• After Root Canal Treatment: Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy can become brittle. Crowning these teeth helps in reinforcing them, reducing the risk of future fractures.
• Anchoring a Dental Bridge: Crowns are used to hold dental bridges in place, replacing one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth.
• Covering Dental Implants: Crowns are placed over dental implants to replace missing teeth, providing a natural-looking and functional restoration.
• Enhancing Aesthetics: Discoloured or misshapen teeth can be covered with crowns to improve their appearance, contributing to a more confident smile.

Types of Dental Crowns

Depending on individual needs and preferences, various materials are available for dental crowns:

• Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: These offer a natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth due to their ability to match the colour of adjacent teeth.
• Metal Crowns: Made from alloys containing gold or other metals, these crowns are durable and withstand biting and chewing forces well, making them suitable for molars.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: Combining the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, these crowns are versatile and commonly used.
• Zirconia Crowns: Known for their strength and aesthetics, zirconia crowns are a popular choice for both front and back teeth.

The Procedure for Placing a Dental Crown

Receiving a dental crown typically involves the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation: Our dentists assess the tooth to determine if a crown is the appropriate treatment.
2. Tooth Preparation: The tooth is shaped to accommodate the crown. This may involve removing a portion of the tooth structure.
3. Impression Taking: An impression of the prepared tooth is made to fabricate a custom crown that fits precisely.
4. Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
5. Permanent Crown Placement: Once ready, the permanent crown is fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

To ensure the longevity of your dental crown:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay and gum disease.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard objects can damage the crown.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine visits allow us to monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues promptly.

Why Choose Brite Dental for Your Crown Procedure?

At Brite Dental, we combine modern technology with a friendly environment to deliver exceptional dental care. Our services include:

• Restorative Dentistry: From dental crowns to bridges, we offer treatments to repair and enhance your smile.
• Preventive Care: Regular check-ups and hygiene appointments to maintain optimal oral health.
• Cosmetic Dentistry: Procedures like veneers and teeth whitening to improve the aesthetics of your smile.

Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised care tailored to your unique needs. If you're considering a dental crown or have concerns about your dental health, contact Brite Dental today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Paisley, Bridge of Weir, Clarkston or Edinburgh.

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