The Blog

15/12/2016Dental Knowledge

You need a dental crown when you don’t have enough teeth to support a filling, if the filled tooth has a lot more filling than tooth, if there is discoloration or damage to the tooth from decay. Since these kinds of teeth are at risks for fractures and cracks, they need a crown for structure, support and strength. The tooth is reduced to make more room for the crown. If you are going for a gold crown, then only a small amount of tooth has to be shaved off as the gold fillings can be fairly thin. Once the crown is cemented in place with soft paste, your dentist will leave it there till it adjusts to your bite. Here are a few precautions that you need to take on your end:

• Don’t bite your cheek, tongue while you are numbed out.
• Don’t chew anything for 30 minutes after the placement of the crown to ensure that the cement is properly set.
• Stay away from hot drinks and eat only soft food items while you are numb.
• Take a mild painkiller as long as it does not contraindications with your existing medication.
• If your tooth becomes sensitive, use desensitizing toothpaste.
• To reduce discomfort or swelling, rinse with salt water at least thrice a day.

Make sure that you floss around the area at least once every day and avoid eating curries as it can turn your temporary crown orange or bright yellow. If the crown comes loose, visit the dentist immediately.

For more details, schedule a consultation with Dr Sofie Bui to assess and discuss your treatment options. Tel. (07) 5593 2810.

Read More

06/12/2016Dental Knowledge

A dental crown can be described as a cap in the shape of a tooth that is placed over a patients tooth to protect it, restore its size, shape, and strength. It also greatly improves the persons appearance. There are several different kinds of dental crowns available in the market and they are used during different situations. Here are common situations where the need for a dental crown may arise.

• Root canal: After this treatment, the tooth is hollowed out and it could cause the remaining tooth to start cracking. A crown will prevent the tooth from cracking and getting damaged further.
• Fillings: In case of large fillings that involve a major portion of the tooth, a crown will need to be secured over the tooth so that the tooth remains protected.
• Excessive wear: Some people have the habit of gritting and grinding their teeth. This causes their teeth to become shorter and weaker over time. The enamel can also become eroded due to bulimia, gastrointestinal acid reflux, or even an acidic diet.
• Cracked teeth or broken cusps: Teeth can become cracked or broken due to incorrect chewing techniques or trauma. Crowns can hold teeth together and prevent the tooth from being damaged further or falling off.
• Unpleasant appearance: Teeth play a major role in a persons appearance, so unacceptable cases like discoloration, misshapen teeth, or gaps can be rectified using crowns which given a very natural look.

These are the common situations where dental crowns become necessary. For more details on dental crowns and their applications, schedule a consultation with Dr Sofie Bui to assess and discuss your treatment options. Tel. (07) 5593 2810.

Read More