Dental crowns are one of the most effective ways to restore both the appearance and function of damaged teeth. Whether you have a cracked, decayed, or discolored tooth, a dental crown can offer a long-lasting solution that looks and feels just like a natural tooth. At Harbour Dental in Kingston, ON, we specialize in providing high-quality crowns that enhance the strength and beauty of your smile.

In this blog, we’ll explain what dental crowns are, when they are needed, the types of crowns available, and how Harbour Dental can help restore your smile with a custom crown.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used when a tooth is too damaged for a filling but still strong enough to avoid extraction. Crowns not only protect the tooth but also improve its overall look, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.

At Harbour Dental, our crowns are crafted with precision to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth, ensuring a beautiful, natural-looking result.

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Dental crowns can be used to address a variety of dental issues. Here are some common situations where a crown may be necessary:

1. Severely Decayed or Damaged Teeth

If a tooth has suffered from significant decay or trauma, a crown may be needed to restore its structure. Crowns offer protection and prevent further damage, ensuring the tooth remains functional.

2. Cracked or Chipped Teeth

Crowns are an ideal solution for teeth that are cracked or chipped. By covering the entire tooth, the crown holds it together and prevents further cracking or breaking.

3. After Root Canal Therapy

Following root canal therapy, a crown is often placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its strength, as the tooth becomes more brittle after the procedure.

4. Worn-Down Teeth

Teeth can become worn down over time due to grinding (bruxism) or other factors. Crowns can restore the lost tooth structure, improving both appearance and function.

5. Cosmetic Improvements

If a tooth is discolored, misshapen, or uneven, a crown can improve its appearance, giving you a more uniform and attractive smile.

Types of Dental Crowns

At Harbour Dental in Kingston, we offer different types of crowns to suit your needs and preferences. Here’s a quick overview of the most common options:

1. Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are a popular choice because they offer the most natural-looking results. These crowns are made to match the color of your natural teeth, making them ideal for visible teeth like the front incisors. Porcelain crowns are also biocompatible, meaning they don’t cause any adverse reactions in the body.

2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the aesthetics of a porcelain exterior. These crowns are durable and offer a natural appearance but may show a dark line near the gumline as the metal core becomes exposed over time.

3. All-Metal Crowns

Metal crowns, typically made from gold or other alloys, are known for their durability and strength. They are usually recommended for molars or back teeth, where the force of chewing is greatest. While metal crowns are very strong, they are less aesthetically pleasing due to their metallic color.

4. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are a newer option that combines the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. These crowns are highly durable and resistant to chipping, making them a great choice for both front and back teeth.

The Process of Getting a Crown at Harbour Dental

Getting a crown is a straightforward and pain-free process that typically requires two visits to our Kingston office. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation

During your first visit, we’ll examine the tooth to determine if a crown is the best solution. If it is, the tooth will be reshaped to make room for the crown. We’ll then take impressions of your tooth, which will be used to create your custom crown.

2. Temporary Crown Placement

While your permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it.

3. Permanent Crown Placement

Once your custom crown is ready (usually within a few weeks), you’ll return to our office for the final placement. We’ll ensure the crown fits perfectly and matches your surrounding teeth before bonding it securely in place.

4. Final Adjustments and Care

After placing the crown, we’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable. We’ll also provide instructions on how to care for your new crown, ensuring it lasts for years to come.

How to Care for Your Crown

Taking care of your dental crown is simple and similar to caring for your natural teeth. Here are a few tips to keep your crown in great condition:

• Brush and floss daily: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent decay around the crown.
• Avoid chewing hard objects: Be mindful of chewing ice, hard candy, or pens, as this can damage the crown.
• Regular dental checkups: Visit us at Harbour Dental regularly so we can monitor your crown and the health of your surrounding teeth.

With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer.

Why Choose Harbour Dental for Your Dental Crowns?

At Harbour Dental, we combine expertise, advanced technology, and a compassionate approach to offer exceptional dental care. Here’s why patients in Kingston, ON trust us with their dental crown needs:

• Expert Craftsmanship: Our dentists have years of experience in designing and placing crowns that look natural and feel comfortable.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest techniques and materials to ensure your crown fits perfectly and lasts a long time.
• Patient-Focused Care: We understand that dental procedures can feel overwhelming, so we prioritize your comfort and peace of mind every step of the way.

‍