Understanding Dental Crowns in Kensington

When it comes to restoring and enhancing your smile, dental crowns play a crucial role. Located in the heart of Kensington, Kensington Dental Studio offers a wide range of dental services, including expertly crafted dental crowns. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you understand what dental crowns are, their types, benefits, procedure, and aftercare.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a type of restoration that completely covers or "caps" a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and aesthetic appearance. Crowns are used to protect compromised teeth, improve visual appeal, or support a dental bridge. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, resin, or a combination of materials.

Why Would You Need a Dental Crown?

There are several reasons why a patient may require a dental crown:

• Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is extensively decayed, a crown can provide the necessary protection and support.
• Cracked or Worn Teeth: If a tooth is fractured or severely worn down, a crown can restore its shape and function.
• Post-Root Canal Treatment: Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy often need a crown to provide strength and protect the remaining structure.
• Cosmetic Improvement: Crowns can also be used to enhance the shape or color of a tooth, helping improve the overall aesthetics of your smile.
• Support for Bridges: Dental crowns are often used as anchors for bridges to replace missing teeth.

Types of Dental Crowns Available in Kensington

At Kensington Dental Studio, you’ll find a variety of dental crown types, each with its unique advantages:

1. Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are renowned for their natural appearance. They are designed to match the color and translucency of your surrounding teeth, making them an excellent choice for front teeth restorations.

2. Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are known for their durability and strength, making them ideal for back teeth. They typically withstand chewing forces better than other types and have a longer life span.

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

This hybrid solution combines the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The metal base provides durability, while the porcelain exterior offers a natural-looking finish.

4. Resin Crowns

Resin crowns are less expensive than other options but are less durable. They are often used as a temporary solution while waiting for a permanent crown to be fabricated.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The process for obtaining a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist:

Visit One: Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation

During your first appointment, your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth needing a crown. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Diagnosis: The dentist examines the tooth and surrounds gums to determine the best treatment plan.
2. Preparation: If required, the dentist will administer local anesthesia and prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown.
3. Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken, often digitally, to create a custom crown that fits perfectly.
4. Temporary Crown: A temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.

Visit Two: Crown Placement

Once your custom crown is ready (usually within a couple of weeks), you will return for the placement:

1. Removal of Temporary Crown: The temporary crown is taken off, and the dentist will ensure that the tooth is ready for the final restoration.
2. Initial Fitting: The dentist places the crown on the tooth to check its fit and make any necessary adjustments.
3. Cementing the Crown: Once satisfied with the fit, the crown is permanently cemented in place.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Investing in dental crowns at Kensington Dental Studio comes with numerous benefits:

• Enhance Strength: Dental crowns provide significant structural support, allowing you to eat and speak without worry.
• Natural Appearance: Crown options like porcelain and ceramic enable a seamless integration with your natural teeth.
• Longevity: With proper care, crowns can last many years, making them a durable solution for tooth restoration.
• Improved Oral Health: By restoring damaged teeth, crowns help maintain overall oral health and prevent further complications.

Caring for Your Dental Crowns

Once you have received your dental crowns, maintaining them is essential to ensure longevity and optimal functionality. Here are some helpful tips:

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly to keep your gums healthy and to prevent decay around the crown.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious with hard foods that may damage your crowns. Consider cutting them into smaller pieces or avoiding them altogether.
• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to monitor the health of your crowns and surrounding teeth.
• Avoid Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, discuss protective measures like a mouthguard with your dentist to avoid damaging your crowns.

The Cost of Dental Crowns in Kensington

The cost of dental crowns can vary based on material, lab fees, and the complexity of your case. On average, you can expect dental crowns in Kensington to range from £500 to £1,200 per tooth. At Kensington Dental Studio, we offer financing options and work with various insurance plans to help make dental crowns more accessible.

Conclusion: Choose Kensington Dental Studio for Your Dental Crowns

Unlock the full potential of your smile with expertly crafted dental crowns at Kensington Dental Studio. Our team of experienced dental professionals is dedicated to providing you with personalized care, ensuring you leave our office feeling confident and satisfied.

Ready to transform your smile? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how dental crowns can enhance your oral health and appearance.

For more information on dental crowns in Kensington, visit Kensington Dental Studio.