It can be difficult for us to know what we need to have done, especially when it’s inside our mouths and we can’t see it!
Generally speaking, a crown is an extremely strong ceramic covering that sits over a tooth to help increase its strength or improve its appearance. Crowns are much stronger than fillings and last much longer. They are often suggested by a dentist if the tooth in question is compromised (chipped, cracked, or requires a large filling), and/or if we’re trying to improve the appearance for a smile makeover for example, as ceramics look much nicer than filling materials.
During a consultation with our dentists, if they do not think you require the treatment you have come in for (crown/bridge/veneer, implant, or wisdom tooth removal), they will let you know and will be able to refer you to another dental practice that can continue with your care should you require it.
Occasionally some patients get frustrated that we refuse to do the treatment they think they need. For example, some patients come to us convinced they need their wisdom teeth out. The procedure itself carries risks and if our dentists don’t feel your wisdom teeth need to be removed, we will not offer that treatment. We will not act on the treatment plan of another dentist without assessing if that treatment is needed.
To help prevent this situation, when you call us our trained team on reception will ask you a series of questions to assess, as much as is possible, whether you might be suitable for the treatment you’re after.