Prosthetic Dentistry

What is a crown?
Well, crowns are the best way to reconstruct teeth that are chipped off or that have become weak due to decomposition or an extremely large filling.

Why would I need a crown?
Well, there are several reasons. For example:
- the tooth might have become weakened due to an extremely big filling
- you wish to enhance your tooth’s appearance since you have stained fillings
- you have undergone a root filling that requires a crown to shield it
- you met with an accident and your tooth is damaged
- it may assist in securely holding in place a denture or bridge.

What are crowns made of?
Different kinds of materials are used in crowns and there are new materials being developed constantly. The following are a few of the alternatives available today:
Porcelain fused with precious metal: in fact the majority of crowns are manufactured from this. A precious metal foundation is created and porcelain layers are then smeared on top of it. Although they are tough enough, they are not used in anterior teeth because of the lack of esthetic. Porcelain without precious metal: They are very naturel and they can be used in both anterior and posterior teeth.

How is a tooth prepared for a crown?
Well the dentist shapes the tooth so that the crown perfectly goes over it. This indicates that a large part of the tooth’s outer surface is removed so that only a tough inner core is left. The amount of your tooth taken out is equal to the new crown’s thickness. After shaping the tooth, the dentist takes the prepared tooth’s impression, one of the jaw on the other side and perhaps another to indicate how you bite together. Now these impressions are dispatched to the technician together with any necessary details they require for crown fabrication

Will the crown be noticeable?
Not at all. The crown is fabricated to closely match the other teeth. The adjacent teeth color is duly registered to ensure the crown color appears real and corresponds to the color of the neighboring teeth. A provisional crown, generally made of plastic, is fixed at the close of the initial visit and is worn till such time the permanent crown is made. These provisional crowns may be quite visible, but they have to be worn for a couple of weeks only.

Does it hurt to have a tooth prepared for a crown?
Not at all. Local anesthesia is given and the tooth preparation feels just like filling. In case the tooth has no nerve then a local anesthesia is not required.

How long will a crown last?
A crown’s life span is based on well it is maintained. While the crown is not subject to decomposition, but rot can set in where the crown’s edge meets the tooth. Now it is extremely vital to ensure that this part is kept just as thoroughly clean as the other teeth, or the crown may face the risk of decay. If the crowns are looked after very well, then they will survive for a number of years.

Will the crown feel different?
Initially you may feel a difference since the crown shape will be marginally different from your tooth shape prior to crowning. However, in a couple of days it feels all right and you will no longer become aware of it. If the crown seems higher than the adjacent teeth, then it requires some modification. However, if you feel very discomfited, request your dentist to examine and modify it.

Why should I replace missing teeth?
To enhance your looks. Besides, the space caused due to a missing tooth indicates larger pressure on the neighboring teeth. In addition, the presence of gaps affects your ‘bite’ as the teeth beside the gap can tend to incline towards the space and change the way the lower and upper teeth come together. This results in food particles becoming wedged into the space, which gives rise to decomposition and gum disease also.

Can I always have a bridge to replace missing teeth?
Certainly, if there are a number of healthy teeth with strong bone support. Your dentist will suggest to you the best and most reasonable means to fix your missing teeth.

What are bridges are made of?
Generally, a precious metal foundation is used in bridges. If the bridge is visible, then porcelain is fused to the foundation. At times, in order to bring down expenses, the foundation may contain other metals that are non-precious.

How do I look after my bridge?
Well, you have to clean the bridge daily so as to avert halitosis and gum disease problems. What's more, you need to daily clean beneath the false tooth too. Your dentist will demonstrate to you how to clean using special floss since an ordinary toothbrush will be unable to access the area.

Are there other methods for fixing false teeth?
These are fairly specialized dentures and hence you should consult your dentist regarding them. Also, you can have teeth implants – check with your dentist for more details. Bear in mind that taking care of your other teeth is as vital as restoring missing teeth.