What is a Dental Crown, and When is it Needed?

A dental crown is a cap that goes over a tooth to make it stronger and look better. Dental crowns in NW Calgary help protect teeth that are weak, broken, or have large cavities. Crowns can also make your smile look nicer.

Crowns are not just for looks; they keep your teeth safe and help you chew without pain.

Knowing what a crown is, when you might need one, and how to take care of it can help keep your teeth healthy for a long time.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is like a helmet for your tooth. It covers the whole tooth and protects it. Crowns can be made from metal, porcelain, or a mix of both.

They are made to fit your tooth perfectly. This helps you bite comfortably and keeps your tooth looking natural. Crowns are often used when a tooth is too weak for a filling or after a root canal.

When is a Dental Crown Needed?

You might need a crown if a tooth is cracked, worn, or has a big cavity.

Some common reasons include:

  • A tooth with a large cavity
  • A tooth that is broken or cracked
  • A tooth that had a root canal
  • A tooth that looks uneven or discoloured
  • To hold a dental bridge in place

A dentist in NW Calgary can check if a crown is the right choice for your tooth.

Types of Crowns

There are different types of crowns:

  • Metal Crowns: Very strong, good for back teeth.
  • Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: Look natural, good for front teeth.
  • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: Strong like metal but looks like porcelain.

A dentist can help you choose the best crown for your teeth.

Temporary vs. Permanent Crowns

Sometimes, a temporary crown is used while your permanent crown is being made. Temporary crowns protect your tooth and keep it from moving. They are usually made of plastic or resin.

Permanent crowns are stronger and made to last many years. Your dentist will make sure the permanent crown fits perfectly and feels comfortable.

Temporary crowns are just a short-term solution, but they are important for protecting your tooth.

How Crowns Help Your Teeth

Crowns protect weak teeth from breaking. They make it easier to bite and chew. Crowns also help keep your teeth in the right position.

Visiting a dentist in NW Calgary makes sure your crown fits well and keeps your bite healthy.

What are the Steps to Get a Crown

Here’s what usually happens when you get a crown:

  1. Check-up and Prep – The dentist looks at your tooth and removes any decay.
  2. Impression – A mold of your tooth is made so the crown fits perfectly.
  3. Temporary Crown – A temporary crown protects the tooth while the permanent one is ready.
  4. Permanent Crown – The new crown is put in place and cemented.

A dental clinic to get a dental crown can make this process easy and comfortable.

How to Care for Your Crown

To make your crown last a long time:

  • Brush and floss daily around the crown
  • Avoid biting hard foods or chewing ice
  • Visit a dental clinic near you for regular check-ups
  • Tell your dentist if it feels loose or painful

Crowns can last 10–15 years or even longer with good care.

What are the Signs Your Crown Might Need Replacement

Sometimes crowns need to be replaced. Watch for:

  • Pain or sensitivity around the tooth
  • A crown that feels loose
  • Chips or cracks in the crown
  • Trouble biting or chewing

Your dentist can fix issues before they damage the tooth underneath.

Keep Your Smile Safe with a Crown

Dental crowns protect teeth, make chewing easier, and improve your smile. They are useful for broken teeth or to complete a dental bridge.

At Foothills Dental Group, we help you choose the right crown that makes it fits comfortably. Book a visit with our team today to keep your teeth strong and your smile looking bright!

FAQs

How long does a dental crown last?

Crowns can last 10–15 years or more with proper care.

Does getting a crown hurt?

No, local anesthesia keeps it comfortable, and only minor soreness may happen.

Can a crown break?

Yes, dental crowns can break if you eat hard foods.

Do I need special cleaning for a crown?

No, brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly.

Can I eat normally with a new crown?

Yes, but it’s best to avoid very hard or sticky foods for a few days until the crown settles in.

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