- Crowns help to repair a tooth that has become heavily damaged or decayed
What is a crown?
A dental crown is a tooth shaped cap that is placed over the remaining part of a prepared tooth, to make it strong and give it the shape of a natural tooth.
Why do I need a crown?
Dental crowns can be used to strengthen a damaged tooth, improve a tooth’s appearance, shape or alignment or can be placed over a dental implant to provide a tooth like shape and structure for function.
Your dentist may recommend a crown to replace a large filling when there is insufficient tooth remaining, protect a weak tooth from fracturing, restore a fractured tooth, protect a tooth that has had root canal treatment or to improve the appearance of a discoloured or poorly shaped tooth.
What are crowns made of?
Crowns are normally made of a white, ceramic that can be colour matched to your natural teeth, so your crown will not stand out when you talk, eat or smile. Other materials may be used but your dentist will discuss these with you, prior to treatment.
How is a crown made?
Crowns are made in two appointments spaced roughly two weeks apart. At the first appointment, the dentist will prepare your teeth and take impressions. These are then sent to the dental laboratory for the dental technician to craft a custom-made crown. Between appointments the dentist will place a temporary crown on your tooth to protect it. When the permanent is ready, the temporary will be removed and the new crown will be cemented in place.
Will treatment hurt?
No, the dentist will use a local anaesthetic to numb your mouth prior to treatment, so it should feel no different to having a filling.
How do I care for my crown?
While crowns can last for many years they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown is to practice good oral hygiene. Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily. Also see your dentist and hygienist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
Benefits of Crowns
- Crowns support a tooth that has been badly damaged – crowns can protect and strengthen teeth, helping to increase the life span of your natural teeth.
- Crowns improve the appearance of teeth – Crowns can be used to add length or width to misshapen teeth, mask tooth discolouration’s and cover a dental implant.
- Crowns look natural – crowns resemble the look of natural teeth. This means that they can be used to give the illusion of always having a healthy, bright smile.
- Crowns are long lasting – studies have shown that crowns last longer than any other type of dental restoration. However, once a tooth is crowned it will always need a crown, there is no going back.
- Crowns give you the confidence to smile again – damaged or broken teeth can make you feel embarrassed and afraid to smile. Crowns can restore the look and function of your smile.