At Haas Dental Centre in North York, Dr. Dan Haas offers dental crowns (also known as tooth crowns or caps) to help restore, protect, and enhance the appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. These custom-made restorations are designed to cover the visible portion of your tooth, offering a natural, seamless look that blends in perfectly with your smile. Dental crowns can be created to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, so no one will know you've had the procedure. Whether you're dealing with a cracked tooth, a cavity, or need to complete a dental implant, dental crowns can provide the solution.

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Dental crowns can be used in a variety of situations to address dental concerns:

• Protect and reinforce a tooth that is weakened by decay, cracks, or fractures.
• Ensure proper chewing and speaking ability with a damaged tooth.
• Improve the appearance of a tooth that is chipped, stained, or misshapen.
• Dental crowns can be placed over dental implants to replace missing teeth.
• Crowns are often used to anchor a dental bridge in place.
• Aesthetic crowns can improve the overall look of your smile.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns, each with its own advantages depending on the situation:

• Porcelain or All-Ceramic Crowns: Ideal for front teeth due to their ability to mimic the natural color and translucency of real teeth. These crowns provide the most natural appearance and are highly aesthetic.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: Offering both strength and aesthetics, these crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth. They provide durability, with the porcelain exterior resembling a natural tooth and the metal providing strength.
• Metal Crowns (Gold or Other Metals): These crowns are the most durable, making them ideal for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. Though not aesthetically ideal for visible teeth, they are the most long-lasting option.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Crowns

All Porcelain Crowns

• Advantages: Natural-looking appearance that blends seamlessly with your teeth. Perfect for front teeth or areas that are visible when smiling. It can be customized to match the exact color of your natural teeth. Dr. Dan Haas uses premium porcelain crowns like Procera, Empress, and IPS e.max for excellent aesthetic and functional results.
• Disadvantages: Not as strong as other materials, which can lead to wear on opposing teeth. It may not be ideal for back teeth, where strength is a higher priority.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

• Advantages: Strong and durable, ideal for back teeth. Provides a natural appearance with the strength of metal.
• Disadvantages: The metal can sometimes be visible at the gum line, reducing aesthetic appeal. The porcelain can wear down adjacent teeth over time.

Metal Crowns (Gold or Other Metals)

• Advantages: Extremely durable and long-lasting, especially for back teeth. Very resistant to wear and tear, minimizing damage to adjacent teeth.
• Disadvantages: Not aesthetically pleasing for front teeth, as they are noticeable in your smile. Typically used in areas that are not visible.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The process of getting a dental crown at Haas Dental Centre involves two visits:

• First Visit - Tooth Preparation: Dr. Haas will shape the affected tooth to accommodate the crown. A digital scan of the tooth will be taken using our iTero scanner, creating a precise model that is sent to a dental lab to craft your custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed over your tooth while the permanent one is being made.
• Second Visit - Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to our office, where we'll remove the temporary crown and fit the new one. The crown will be securely placed to ensure a perfect fit and a comfortable bite.

Care and Maintenance of Dental Crowns

Taking care of your dental crown is simple and similar to the care of natural teeth:

• Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup and maintain oral health.
• Regular checkups are important to ensure that the crown remains intact and your overall dental health is on track.

With proper care, your dental crown can last many years, giving you a functional and beautiful smile.

If you're dealing with a cracked, damaged, or weakened tooth, or you need a crown as part of your dental treatment plan, dental crowns could be the ideal solution. Call us at (416) 638-8999 to book your appointment with Dr. Dan Haas and learn how dental crowns can help restore the strength and beauty of your smile.