Ceramic Dental Crowns Patient Guide

Why You Might Need a Ceramic Crown

A crown is usually needed when a tooth has lost much strength to be treated safely with just a filling. This often happens after a large filling has weakened the tooth. A cracked tooth is another reason for needing a crown.

Ceramic is especially popular for teeth because it can be made to look very much like natural enamel. The colour and shape are matched to your smile. The finished tooth doesn’t stand out.

What Happens Before Treatment

Before the crown is made your dentist will examine the tooth. Check how your bite fits. An X-ray may be needed if there is concern about the root or the bone around the tooth.

You’ll usually have some preparation done to make space for the crown. The dentist removes a part of the tooth structure then takes measurements or a digital scan so the lab can make the crown accurately.

The Crown Appointment

At the appointment the temporary crown is removed if you’ve been wearing one. Then the ceramic crown is checked carefully for fit and appearance.

Your dentist will also ask you to bite down. This step is more important than people think. A crown that looks good but feels too high when you close your teeth needs to be adjusted before it’s permanently fixed.

What You Should Expect Afterwards

• A strange feeling at first is normal. Your tongue notices everything

• If your bite feels high after the numbness wears off tell your dentist of just putting up with it.

• Keep brushing around the crown because the tooth underneath still needs protection even though the ceramic itself can’t decay.

• Sticky foods deserve a caution early on especially if your dentist gave you special instructions for a temporary crown.

Looking After Your Ceramic Crown

Once you’re comfortable treat the crowned tooth like your other teeth. Brush properly and clean between your teeth. There’s no need to be overly careful.

Don’t think a crown makes the tooth indestructible. Biting hard objects is still a bad idea. Teeth under crowns can still develop problems if oral hygiene is neglected.

Ceramic crowns are a choice for patients who want a strong restoration without giving up a natural-looking smile. I also think the best crowns are the ones you eventually forget about. If you’re constantly aware of your crown something probably needs checking.

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