Stronger than teeth - The Benefits of Crowns & Onlays

 

Many people have quite large fillings in their back teeth. This is usually either because the filling is quite old or someone chose the cheaper option at the time.

However, this can be shortsighted. Large fillings replace the tooth's original structure and it can make it weaker. At some point it will not be strong enough to withstand normal biting and chewing. This may cause the tooth to crack or break completely.

Crowns and onlays create an entirely new biting surface for the tooth while retaining the integrity of the root and connection to the jawbone.

The process for having a dental crown placed is a bit different than that of getting a filling, but overall, when the person is done, they will continue to have a working and functioning tooth where the cavity was located.

It commonly takes two appointments. In the first one the decayed tooth tissue is removed. Once there is no cavity or tooth decay left in or on the tooth, then either a physical impression is taken or a digital scan of the tooth. This is then sent to a dental laboratory where they make the crown or onlay. A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until the work is returned by the lab.

At the second appointment, the dentist will install the crown or only over the tooth where the cavity was. The dental crown works as a cap that keeps everything protected, and it also keeps the natural look and feel of the tooth.

Because of how they are crafted and made for each patient, dental crowns and onlays can be one of the most personalised options for keeping a tooth that has a cavity in the best shape and health possible.

 

To start your journey with crowns or onlays today give Gentle Dental a call on 03 548 4601