When a tooth becomes weakened due to decay, cracks, or large fillings, restoring its strength is essential to protect long-term oral health. One of the most commonly recommended restorative treatments is a dental crown. Patients searching for dental crowns London, Ontario often need a solution that restores both function and appearance while preserving their natural tooth.
A dental crown acts as a protective cap that covers the visible portion of a damaged tooth. It strengthens the tooth structure, improves appearance, and helps restore normal chewing ability. At Apple Tree Dental in London, Ontario, dental crowns are frequently used to repair weakened teeth and support long-term oral health through modern restorative dentistry.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over an existing tooth. It fully covers the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line and restores its shape, size, strength, and function.
Dentists recommend crowns when a tooth cannot be restored effectively with a filling but can still be preserved. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), crowns are commonly used to strengthen weakened teeth and protect them from further damage.
Modern crowns are designed to match the natural colour and contour of surrounding teeth, allowing them to blend naturally into your smile.
Common materials used for crowns include:
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Porcelain or ceramic
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Zirconia
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Porcelain fused to metal
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Gold or metal alloys
Each material offers different benefits depending on the location of the tooth and the patient’s dental needs.
When Are Dental Crowns Recommended?
Dentists recommend dental crowns in several situations where additional protection or structural support is necessary.
Severe Tooth Decay
When a tooth has extensive decay and cannot support a filling, a crown restores the remaining structure and protects the tooth from further damage.
Cracked or Fractured Teeth
A cracked tooth can worsen over time. A crown holds the tooth together and reduces the risk of further fracture.
After Root Canal Treatment
Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy often become more fragile. Placing a crown helps strengthen and protect the treated tooth.
Large Existing Fillings
If a tooth contains a large filling and little natural structure remains, a crown can provide the stability needed to maintain normal function.
Cosmetic Restoration
Crowns can improve the appearance of misshapen, worn, or discoloured teeth while maintaining natural aesthetics.
For patients looking for dental crowns London Ontario, a dental examination helps determine whether a crown is the most appropriate restorative treatment.
Types of Dental Crowns Used in Modern Dentistry
Different crown materials provide different advantages depending on durability and appearance.
Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns
These crowns closely resemble natural tooth enamel. Dentists often use them for front teeth because they offer excellent aesthetics.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a highly durable ceramic material. These crowns provide strength and natural appearance, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
These crowns combine a metal base with a porcelain exterior. The metal structure provides strength while the porcelain improves appearance.
Metal Crowns
Gold or metal alloy crowns are extremely durable and resistant to wear. Dentists usually place them on molars where biting pressure is highest.
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable crown type based on bite pressure, tooth location, and aesthetic preferences.
The Dental Crown Procedure: Step-by-Step
Getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments at a dental clinic.
Step 1: Examination and Tooth Preparation
The dentist begins by examining the affected tooth and taking X-rays if needed. This allows the dentist to evaluate the tooth roots and surrounding bone.
The tooth is then reshaped slightly so the crown can fit securely. After preparation, impressions or digital scans are taken to create a custom crown that fits precisely.
A temporary crown protects the tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated.
Step 2: Crown Placement
Once the final crown is ready, the dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the fit and colour of the permanent one.
After confirming proper fit and bite alignment, the dentist permanently bonds the crown to the tooth.
This process restores the tooth’s strength and allows normal chewing function to return.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns provide several important benefits for patients with weakened or damaged teeth.
Strengthen Weakened Teeth
Crowns protect teeth that are cracked, worn down, or structurally compromised.
Restore Normal Function
A crown restores chewing ability and helps distribute bite pressure evenly.
Improve Smile Appearance
Modern crowns are designed to match natural teeth in colour and shape.
Protect Teeth Long-Term
Crowns help prevent further damage to weakened teeth and can delay or prevent tooth loss.
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) notes that restorative treatments such as crowns play an important role in maintaining long-term oral health when natural tooth structure becomes compromised.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown varies depending on oral hygiene habits, chewing forces, and crown material.
According to guidance from the ADA and CDA, many dental crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care.
Patients can extend the lifespan of their crown by:
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Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
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Flossing regularly around the crown
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Avoiding hard foods such as ice or hard candies
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Attending regular dental checkups
Consistent oral hygiene protects both the crown and the natural tooth underneath.
Choosing Dental Crowns in London Ontario
When considering restorative treatment, choosing a qualified dental clinic is essential. Dentists evaluate several factors before recommending crowns, including tooth structure, bite alignment, and overall oral health.
Patients searching for dental crowns London Ontario often benefit from modern dental technologies such as digital impressions and advanced ceramic materials that improve crown accuracy and durability.
At Apple Tree Dental in London Ontario, treatment planning focuses on preserving natural teeth whenever possible while restoring comfort and functionality. Each crown is carefully designed to match surrounding teeth and support long-term oral health.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Even though crowns are strong, they still require proper care to maintain their longevity.
Patients should continue practicing daily oral hygiene and attend routine dental checkups. Regular examinations allow dentists to monitor the crown and surrounding gum tissue.
If you notice symptoms such as discomfort, looseness, or sensitivity, contacting a dentist promptly can help prevent further complications.
Maintaining healthy habits protects both the crown and the natural tooth structure beneath it.
When to Consider Dental Crowns in London Ontario
If you have a cracked, heavily restored, or structurally weakened tooth, a dental crown may be recommended to restore strength and function.
Many patients searching for dental crowns London Ontario choose crowns as a long-term solution to protect natural teeth while improving chewing comfort and appearance.
A professional dental evaluation helps determine whether a crown is the most suitable treatment for your situation.
FAQ
How do I know if I need a dental crown?
A dentist may recommend a crown if a tooth is severely decayed, cracked, weakened after root canal treatment, or unable to support a large filling.
Are dental crowns painful to get?
The procedure is usually comfortable because local anesthesia is used during tooth preparation. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal and typically resolves quickly.
Can a dental crown look natural?
Yes. Modern ceramic and porcelain crowns are designed to match the colour and shape of natural teeth, making them blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
How long does the dental crown process take?
Most crown procedures require two dental visits. The first visit prepares the tooth and takes impressions, while the second visit places the final crown.
How should I care for my dental crown?
Brush and floss regularly, avoid biting very hard foods, and visit your dentist for routine checkups to maintain the health of the crown and surrounding teeth.
