Beautiful, Durable Dental Crowns in Huntingdale & Thornlie

Generally, well-fitted dental crowns are designed to be durable and secure for many years with proper care. However, they can get loose over time due to various factors:

• Poor Dental Hygiene:
  Failing to maintain proper oral care can lead to decay or gum disease around the crowned tooth, compromising the crown’s stability. It is important to brush and floss regularly and schedule routine dental check-ups.
• Wear and Tear:
  The constant pressure from chewing and biting can cause the cement holding the crown in place to weaken over time. It can also happen if you grind your teeth while sleeping. To address this, your dentist may suggest wearing a custom mouthguard.
• Accidents or Trauma:
  Any impact to the mouth, such as a sports injury or a fall, can dislodge a crown. This can lead to discomfort, chewing difficulties, and damage to the underlying tooth structure. To protect your crown, wear a mouthguard when playing sports.

Our dental crowns at Huntingdale-Thornlie Dental are designed to be durable and long-lasting. If your crown becomes loose, you must visit us promptly. Our team can assess the situation and re-cement the crown or provide a replacement if necessary.

On average, a well-maintained dental crown can last between 10 and 15 years. With proper care, some crowns can last even longer. Below are the factors that contribute to the longevity of a dental crown:

• Materials Used:
  Crowns made from high-quality materials such as porcelain, zirconia or metal tend to have a longer lifespan.
• Dental Crown Procedure:
  Skill and precision during the dental procedure are essential for a crown that fits well and functions properly.
• Oral Hygiene Habits:
  Consistent and effective oral hygiene practices contribute to the crown’s durability by preventing problems that could compromise it.
• Lifestyle Choices:
  The longevity of a crown can also be affected by lifestyle factors, such as the types of food consumed and whether the teeth are subjected to excessive force.

With proper care and maintenance, your dental crowns can serve you well for years. If you have any concerns or need advice on maintaining your dental crown, book an appointment with us today.

Getting a dental crown is a common procedure that usually involves minimal discomfort. Here’s what to expect during the process:

• Local Anaesthesia:
  To begin the procedure, your dentist will apply local anaesthesia to numb the area surrounding the tooth involved. This will help you remain pain-free throughout the treatment.
• Tooth Preparation:
  The dentist will reshape your tooth to make space for the crown. Due to the anaesthesia, you may feel some pressure or vibration but minimal pain or discomfort.
• Impressions:
  Dental impressions or digital scans of your teeth are taken to create a custom-fit crown. This part of the procedure is usually painless.
• Temporary Crown:
  A temporary crown will be placed to cover the tooth while the custom crown is being made in the dental laboratory. Mild discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure is common and can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relief medications.
• Final Placement:
  Once your custom crown is completed, it will replace the temporary crown. Your friendly dentist will make the required adjustments for a proper fit. During this adjustment, you may feel a bit of pressure, but it should not cause significant discomfort. Any sensitivity should be temporary and should resolve as your mouth adjusts to the new crown.

Many patients experience little to no pain during and after the dental crown procedure. With us, you can trust that the process will be as comfortable as possible.

Root canal therapy is not always required before placing a dental crown. However, certain conditions may necessitate this procedure. Here’s more information on when root canal therapy might be needed:

• Severe Tooth Decay:
  This is caused by poor oral hygiene, overconsumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks, and infrequent dental check-ups. Symptoms include intense tooth pain, holes in the teeth, increased sensitivity to hot and cold, and persistent bad breath. If a tooth has extensive decay that reaches the pulp, root canal therapy is often needed. This is to remove the infected tissue and prevent its spread before placing a crown.
• Infection or Abscess:
  This condition is often caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth. Symptoms include severe toothache, swelling of the gums, and a bad taste in the mouth. Root canal treatment may be performed to address the infection and prevent further complications.
• Damage or Trauma:
  This can be caused by biting on hard objects, accidents, or injuries. It results in sharp pain, sensitivity to temperature changes, and visible cracks or chips in the tooth. If the pulp is exposed, the tooth may need a root canal treatment to remove damaged tissue and alleviate pain.
• Previous Root Canal Therapy:
  Teeth that have already undergone root canal therapy are usually covered with a crown to protect and strengthen them.

In cases where the pulp of the tooth is not infected, a crown can often be placed without the need for a root canal treatment. At Huntingdale-Thornlie Dental, we conduct thorough assessments of our patient’s teeth. This helps us determine whether root canal therapy is needed to achieve the desired outcomes.

To place a dental crown, about 1.5 to 2 millimetres of tooth structure are usually trimmed on all sides for proper fit and function. However, the amount can vary based on the type of crown and the condition of the remaining tooth:

• Porcelain Crowns:
  Usually require about 1.5 to 2 millimetres of tooth reduction. This is necessary to create enough space for the porcelain material, which has to be thick enough to provide strength and durability while maintaining a natural look.
• Metal Crowns:
  Usually need less reduction, around 1 to 1.5 millimetres. They are stronger and thinner than porcelain, so they do not need as much space. This makes them a good option for molars, which endure significant chewing forces.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns:
  Require approximately 1 to 2 millimetres of reduction. The metal base provides structural support, while the porcelain overlay offers a natural appearance. The dual material necessitates reduction to make the crown fit properly and look aesthetically pleasing.

To determine how much of the tooth structure needs to be trimmed for your crown, our skilled team of dentists will conduct a detailed assessment. We will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and evaluate your overall health. This way, we can provide you with a crown that will fit securely and function effectively.

The dental crown procedure generally takes at least two appointments, with the entire process spanning between two and three weeks. Each appointment can range from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case. Here’s what you can expect:

First Appointment: Preparation and Impression-taking (Duration: 60 to 90 minutes)

The dentist first removes any decay and then shapes the tooth to accommodate the crown. Next, an impression of the tooth is taken to create a mould that will be used in designing a custom crown that aligns with the patient’s bite and natural tooth shape. A temporary crown is placed on the tooth for protection until the final crown is ready.

Second Appointment: Crown Placement (Duration: 30 to 60 minutes)

The dentist takes out the temporary crown. The dentist will check the fit and colour of the crown, making any necessary adjustments to match your bite and natural teeth. Once the fit is confirmed, the crown is cemented into place.

These time frames may not be the same for everyone. They can differ based on individual circumstances and specific dental needs. Through proper assessment and planning, our dental team can provide you with a comfortable and stress-free experience. The goal is to help you achieve favourable outcomes for your unique dental needs.

After getting a dental crown, you can usually resume eating normally, but it’s helpful to start with softer foods for the first few days, particularly if you have a temporary crown. This helps manage any initial sensitivity and keeps the temporary crown in place. Once your final restoration is fitted, you can eat as you normally would. However, it’s advisable to avoid very hard or sticky foods that could put undue stress on the crown or affect its longevity. By gradually reintroducing different foods and monitoring how your crown feels, you can experience a smooth adjustment and maintain the results of your treatment.

Yes, teeth can still face issues under crowns. However, many problems can be prevented with proper care. A dental crown itself doesn’t cause the tooth to deteriorate, but underlying issues can arise. Here are some potential problems:

• Decay:
  Although a crown covers most of the tooth, the area near the gum line is still exposed. Bacteria can accumulate here, leading to decay if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained. Symptoms of decay under a crown may include sensitivity to hot or cold, pain, or visible discolouration near the gum line.
• Gum Disease:
  Inadequate brushing and flossing around the crown can lead to gum disease, which may affect the surrounding gum tissue and the tooth beneath the crown. Symptoms include redness, swollen gums, and bleeding during brushing or flossing.
• Crown Damage:
  This can occur due to chewing hard foods, grinding teeth, or trauma to the mouth. If the crown is damaged or becomes loose, bacteria can enter the space between it and the tooth, leading to decay or infection.
• Root Canal Issues:
  If the tooth had a root canal treatment before the crown was placed, there could be a risk of re-infection if the root canal treatment is not entirely successful. Symptoms may include pain, sensitivity, or swelling around the tooth.

In summary, maintaining good oral hygiene and having regular dentist appointments are keys to preventing these issues and promoting the long-term success of your dental crown.

Caring for your dental crown is essential to maximise its benefits and longevity. Proper care involves both routine oral hygiene practices and specific measures to protect the crown, such as:

• Brush Regularly:
  Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. This removes plaque and prevents decay around the crown and near the gum line.
• Floss Daily:
  Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between your teeth and around the crown. Use dental floss or interdental brushes. These tools are designed to clean between the teeth and around crowns, where toothbrushes can’t reach.
• Use Antibacterial Mouthwash:
  Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and prevent gum disease.
• Avoid Hard, Sticky, Crunchy Foods:
  Limit consumption of hard, sticky, and crunchy foods, which can damage or loosen the crown.
• Regular Dental Check-ups:
  Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. Your dentist will check the crown’s condition and verify that there are no issues with the underlying tooth.
• Address Issues Promptly:
  If you notice any pain or sensitivity or if the crown feels loose, contact your dentist immediately to address these issues early.

Knowing these proper care and maintenance techniques allows you to enjoy the benefits of dental crowns for a long time. Our dental team is here to provide professional guidance and support for any questions regarding your dental crown.

A dental crown can usually be replaced multiple times throughout its lifespan, depending on the condition of the underlying tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. Generally, a crown may need replacement if it becomes damaged or worn or if there are issues with the tooth underneath. Each replacement involves evaluating the tooth’s health and verifying that the new crown fits properly. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the condition of your crown and address any potential issues before they require replacement.

During the recovery period after a dental crown procedure, you may experience temporary discomfort or sensitivity around the tooth. It’s common to feel mild soreness, especially when chewing or biting. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort. You might also notice some sensitivity to hot or cold foods, which usually subsides as your mouth adjusts to the new crown.

It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for oral care, including maintaining good hygiene practices and avoiding certain foods that could stress the crown. Any adjustments needed to improve the fit or comfort of the crown can typically be addressed during follow-up appointments. For a smooth healing process, adhere to your dentist’s post-procedure care instructions. This will allow you to enjoy the benefits of dental crowns as soon as possible and for years to come.

Yes, there are several risks or complications associated with dental crowns, including:

• Sensitivity:
  If the pulp of the tooth is still healthy, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may occur. This is often caused by the removal of enamel during the crown preparation, exposing the dentin layer of the tooth. Symptoms include a sharp, sudden pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
• Chipping or Cracking:
  Although crowns are durable, they can still chip or crack, particularly if you grind your teeth or bite on hard objects. Symptoms may involve discomfort, sharp pain when biting, or noticeable damage to the crown’s surface.
• Loose Crown:
  If the cement holding the crown in place washes out, the crown can become loose. This allows bacteria to seep in and cause decay, leading to symptoms such as discomfort, sensitivity, and bad breath.
• Allergic Reaction:
  Some people may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in the crown, such as metal or porcelain. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, itching, or a rash around the gum area.
• Gum Irritation:
  If not properly managed, the area around the crown can become inflamed, leading to gum disease. This can be caused by poor oral hygiene or ill-fitting crowns.
• Nerve Damage:
  Excessive drilling or deep decay near the nerve can cause nerve damage, which could lead to persistent pain or the need for root canal treatment.

If you have any concerns about getting a dental crown due to these risks, please let us know. Our team at Huntingdale-Thornlie Dental is here to discuss them with you. We aim to provide clarity on how they may relate to your specific situation.

Dental crowns themselves do not inherently damage gums, but improper placement or poor oral hygiene can lead to gum problems. Here’s a look at how dental crowns and gum health interact:

Potential Gum Issues

• Gum Irritation:
  Crowns that don’t fit well can irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and discomfort.
• Gum Recession:
  Poorly placed crowns may lead to gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth. As a result, the root is exposed, making it more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
• Infection:
  If the crown margins are not sealed properly, bacteria can enter, leading to gum infections and possibly periodontal disease. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, bleeding, and discomfort around the crown area.

For those in need of dental crowns in Huntingdale & Thornlie, our team is here to provide high-quality dental restoration options. We use quality materials and modern techniques to deliver exceptional care and results for our patients.

The cost of dental crowns in Huntingdale & Thornlie usually ranges from $1,700 to $2,200 per tooth. It depends on the type of crown and the complexity of the procedure. Additional factors, such as the location of the dental clinic and the dentist’s experience, can also influence dental crown costs.

• Type of Crown:
  The type of crown you choose impacts the overall cost and durability of the dental restoration. Different materials offer varying levels of aesthetics, strength, and longevity, which are reflected in their prices:
  • Ceramic: $1,700 to $1,900
  • Porcelain: $1,700 – $1,900
  • Full Metal: $1,700 – $2,200
  • Porcelain-fused-to-Metal: $1,600 – $2,000
• Location:
  Dental clinics in metropolitan areas may charge more than those in regional areas. This is mainly due to higher operating costs, such as rent, utilities, and staff salaries. Additionally, metropolitan clinics often invest in more advanced technology and equipment.
• Dentist’s Experience:
  Experienced and reputable dentists may charge higher fees for their services. This is because they bring a wealth of knowledge, advanced skills, and a proven track record of successful treatments.

To get an accurate quote for your dental crown, contact our team today. We’re here to help you understand your options and provide you with an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs.

Health funds often cover a portion of dental crown costs, depending on the specific policy and level of cover you have. To find out if yours does, here are the steps you need to take:

1. Review Your Policy:
   Check the specifics of your health fund policy regarding major dental treatments.
2. Contact Your Health Fund:
   Call your health fund to get a detailed understanding of your cover and any applicable limits.
3. Get a Quote:
   Obtain a quote from your dentist and submit it to your health fund for a pre-treatment estimate.

Contact your health fund provider to find out the specific amount covered for dental crown costs under your plan. Knowing this information helps you manage your dental care expenses and avoid unexpected costs.

Yes, there are several alternatives to dental crowns, depending on the specific dental issue you are facing. Here are a few common options:

• Dental Veneers:
  Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of the teeth. They are suitable for improving the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, chipped, or slightly misaligned. They are less invasive than crowns, requiring less removal of the natural tooth structure.
• Dental Bonding and Tooth-Coloured Fillings:
  Dental bonding uses a tooth-coloured resin to address minor imperfections like chips or gaps, generally completed in a single visit. Tooth-coloured fillings, made of composite resin, are ideal for small cavities and blend well with natural teeth. Both options are less invasive than crowns.
• Inlays and Onlays:
  Inlays and onlays are custom-made fillings made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin. They are used to restore large damage or decay on teeth. They are suitable for cavities that are too extensive for regular fillings but not severe enough to require a crown. Compared to crowns, inlays and onlays preserve more of the natural tooth structure.

Each alternative has its own indications and benefits. To determine the suitable option for you, our team at Huntingdale-Thornlie Dental will assess your dental condition and needs. By understanding your unique situation, we can recommend the appropriate treatment for you to achieve good dental health and aesthetics.