In the bustling city of Edmonton, the quest for the perfect smile is often met with a critical decision: selecting the right dental crown. Whether it’s the gleaming porcelain or the sturdy metal, each type of crown carries its own set of benefits. Let’s embark on a journey through the world of dental crowns, navigating the waters of aesthetic appeal, durability, and much more.

Aesthetic Appeal

The first stop is the realm of aesthetics. Porcelain crowns are celebrated for their ability to mimic the natural clarity and color of your teeth, making them a preferred choice for those front-row pearly whites. They blend in seamlessly, offering a picture-perfect smile tailor-made for the selfie spots around the High-Level Bridge or the Muttart Conservatory.

Durability and Strength

As we delve deeper, the durability and strength of metal crowns come to the forefront. These stalwarts, made from alloys like gold, platinum, or base metal, are well-suited for the back teeth. They withstand the rigors of Edmonton’s diverse culinary delights, from the hearty steaks of Alberta to the crunchy delights of local farmers’ markets.

Biocompatibility

For Edmontonians with sensitivities, the biocompatibility of porcelain crowns is a beacon of relief. These crowns are well-tolerated by the body, making them an excellent choice for those with metal allergies or specific health concerns.

Stain Resistance

Porcelain crowns also boast a remarkable resistance to staining. They maintain their sparkle amidst a city known for its vibrant food scene and love for coffee and wine, ensuring your smile stays bright and inviting.

Minimal Tooth Preparation

In preserving the integrity of your natural teeth, metal crowns often require less removal of the tooth structure during preparation. This aspect is crucial for patients who prioritize the conservation of their original dental framework.

Longevity

Longevity is a shared attribute of both porcelain and metal crowns. With proper care, these crowns can accompany an Edmontonian through many seasons, from the snowy winters to the sunny summers.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

The hybrid, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns offer the best of both worlds. They combine the durability of metal with the aesthetic grace of porcelain, making them versatile for various dental scenarios across Edmonton.

Tooth Location

The decision also hinges on the location of the tooth. Porcelain crowns are typically chosen for their visual appeal for front teeth, while metal crowns are favored for their strength in less visible areas.

Cost Considerations

Budget plays a pivotal role in this choice. While porcelain crowns are often pricier, metal crowns provide a more cost-effective yet less aesthetic solution. Edmontonians must weigh their financial capacity against their cosmetic desires.

Dental Crown Procedure

The journey culminates with the dental crown procedure. This process, involving a consultation, tooth preparation, and crown fitting, is a transformative experience, one that requires expert guidance from Edmonton’s skilled dental professionals.

Initial Consultation and Examination:

• The process begins with a dental examination. The dentist assesses the damaged or decayed tooth to determine if a crown is the best treatment option.
• This may involve taking X-rays to evaluate the roots of the tooth and surrounding bone. In cases of extensive decay or risk of infection or injury to the tooth’s pulp, additional treatments like a root canal may be necessary before proceeding with the crown.

Tooth Preparation

• Once it’s decided that a crown is needed, the next step is preparing the tooth. This involves reshaping the tooth to ensure a proper fit for the crown.
• The amount of tooth structure removed depends on the type of crown being used. For instance, metal crowns usually require less removal than porcelain crowns.
• If there is extensive damage to the tooth, the dentist may need to build up the core of the tooth to support the crown.

Impression Making:

• After reshaping the tooth, the dentist takes an impression of the tooth that will receive the crown, along with the opposing jaw and the teeth next to the tooth.
• These impressions are sent to a dental lab where the crown will be custom-made. Modern dental practices may use digital technology for this step.

Temporary Crown Placement

• In most cases, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made. This temporary crown is usually made of acrylic or composite materials and is not as durable as the permanent crown.

Fabrication of the Permanent Crown

• The dental lab uses the impressions to create the crown. This can take a few days to a few weeks. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination (like porcelain-fused-to-metal).

Final Placement

• Once the permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office. The dentist removes the temporary crown and fits the new permanent crown onto the tooth.
• Before cementing the crown in place, the dentist checks the fit, color, and bite to ensure comfort and functionality.

Follow-Up

• After the crown is placed, a follow-up visit may be scheduled to ensure the crown is functioning correctly.

Whether it’s the natural allure of porcelain or the robust resilience of metal, Edmonton offers a crown for every need and lifestyle. It’s about balancing aesthetics with functionality and personal health considerations with financial realities, all while under the expert care of dental professionals. Remember, the right crown not only enhances your smile but also mirrors your unique journey through life in Edmonton.