Being told you need a dental crown can naturally lead to questions.
Why has a crown been recommended?
What does the treatment involve?
Are there other restorative options that could be considered?
A crown can be an appropriate treatment for many teeth, however restorative dentistry isn't always one-size-fits-all. The condition of the tooth, remaining tooth structure, existing restorations, cracks and other clinical findings can all influence which treatment options are considered.
We believe patients should understand their options before making decisions about their care. A second opinion can provide another opportunity to do exactly that.
Why Preserving Natural Tooth Structure Matters
One of the principles behind biomimetic dentistry is preserving as much healthy natural tooth structure as possible.
For Dr Ewan Jones, this philosophy has shaped his approach to restorative dentistry over many years. Rather than looking at every damaged tooth in the same way, the first step is understanding what has happened to the tooth and how much of its structure has been affected.
A small area of damage, for example, may present very differently from a tooth with a large existing restoration, significant structural loss or a more extensive crack.
This is why diagnosis comes before deciding on the restoration.
Understanding Different Restorative Options
Depending on the individual tooth, different restorative approaches may be considered.
These can include direct composite restorations, where a tooth-coloured resin material is bonded directly to the tooth, or ceramic inlays and onlays, which are made outside the mouth and bonded to selected areas of the tooth.
A crown is another restorative option and may be recommended depending on the condition and requirements of the tooth.
These treatments aren't interchangeable, and there isn't one option that is appropriate for every patient. What is recommended depends on the individual tooth and the findings from a clinical assessment.
Where Biomimetic Dentistry Fits In
Biomimetic dentistry means working with the natural structure and behaviour of the tooth in mind.
At Melbourne Biomimetic Dental Centre, adhesive dentistry plays an important role in this approach. Materials such as composite resin and ceramic can be bonded to remaining tooth structure, with the type of restoration selected according to the individual clinical situation.
Our biomimetic process may also incorporate techniques such as selective caries removal and immediate dentine sealing as part of restorative treatment.
The underlying philosophy is conservative: understand what needs to be treated, consider the available options and preserve healthy tooth structure where possible.
Treatment decisions should reflect the condition and needs of the individual tooth.
Why Consider a Second Opinion?
Seeking a second opinion is an opportunity to gather information and better understand the treatment being recommended.
If you've been told you need a crown, a second assessment can give you the opportunity to ask:
Why has this treatment been recommended?
What is the current condition of the tooth?
Are there other restorative options that could be considered?
What are the benefits and limitations of each option?
What would each treatment involve?
Following an assessment, a crown may still be recommended. In other circumstances, different restorative options may be discussed.
The purpose of a second opinion is to help you better understand your diagnosis and make an informed decision about your care.
Our Approach to Restorative Dentistry
At Melbourne Biomimetic Dental Centre, treatment planning begins with understanding the individual tooth and the person it belongs to.
Dr Ewan Jones' approach is guided by a simple philosophy: do as little as possible, but as much as needed.
That means carefully assessing the tooth, explaining the findings and discussing the restorative options relevant to the individual situation.
If you've been told you need a crown, asking questions about your treatment is completely reasonable. Understanding why a particular restoration has been recommended, what it involves and what other options may be considered can help you make a more informed decision about your dental care.
To learn more about our approach to biomimetic and restorative dentistry, visit www.melbournebiomimeticdentalcentre.com.au.
