A crown is placed over a tooth to cover or protect it, and securely held in place by strong dental adhesive. Crowns are used for several reasons, including:
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, ceramic or metal alloys. A combination of metal and ceramic is also possible to maximise strength and simulate the appearance of natural teeth.
Firstly, a thorough clinical examination is conducted with radiographs by the dentist. The suitability for crowns is assessed and any preparatory work is carried out. Your dentist will also be able to advise on material choices, treatment sequence and any other concerns you may have.
At the second appointment, the teeth to be crowned are prepared. This involves reduction of the tooth size (usually under local anaesthesia) followed by an impression or mould of the prepared tooth. This trimming of the tooth is required to create space for the crown to be fitted. The mould taken is then sent to a laboratory where skilled technicians will fabricate the crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is made and fitted onto the trimmed tooth.
At the third appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the tooth surfaces cleaned. The completed crown is tried on the tooth for fit, harmony with the bite, and appearance. Finally, the crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth with dental cement.
It varies depending on each individual, but you can expect your crown to last up to 15 years before needing to be replaced. Ceramic on the surface may chip or fracture, so we recommend you avoid chewing or biting into very hard foods to protect your crown.
Crowns are made of inert materials that do not deteriorate over time. However, the underlying tooth is still prone to decay and gum disease. Daily brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining good oral health as well as keeping the crown trouble-free. The most vulnerable portion of the crown is the margin or the junction between tooth and crown.
Regular check-ups will enable your dentist to detect any problems with your crown and recommend necessary treatment.
You are able to choose the shade of your crown, based on your personal preferences. We can accurately colour match the ceramic material to your natural teeth, ensuring it blends into your smile perfectly and can’t be distinguished from your existing teeth. If you are considering teeth whitening treatment for your natural teeth, you may wish to have your crown created in a whiter shade, as whitening gels are not effective on the dental restoration. Depending on your case, your dentist may suggest whitening your teeth first so they can ensure a more exact match.
We use local anaesthetic to numb the affected area before we begin preparing your tooth for crown treatment to make sure you won’t feel any pain. We also make sure you are feeling relaxed and comfortable in the chair before we begin your treatment. Many patients report that having a crown is no more uncomfortable than the treatment for a filling.
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