Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap, which completely covers and protects a weakened tooth. Crowns are bonded to the tooth using special dental cement, giving you a strong and durable solution. A dental crown may also be screwed into a dental implant, otherwise known as an implant crown.
When may a dental crown be required?
Cracked or Broken Teeth
Crowns shield fractured teeth from further damage.
Large Cavities
When a cavity is too extensive for a filling, a crown offers a more robust solution.
Root Canals
Crowns can protect teeth that have undergone
root canal treatment, ensuring their long-term health.
Dental Implants
Crowns are the visible part of a dental implant, restoring both function and aesthetics.
What is the procedure for getting a crown?
Planning
Initially records such as x-rays, impressions or scans of the tooth may be taken for planning the crown treatment.ļ»æ
Preparation
The tooth is then prepared ready for the crown, this is a similar process to having a filling done.
Record
An accurate record of the tooth and surrounding area is taken either through a digital scan or traditional impression.
Temporary Crown
While your permanent crown is being crafted in a lab (which can take a few weeks), a temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth.
What material will my crown be made of?
Crowns come in various materials, each with its own advantages. The two following materials are the most common:
Alternatives to Dental Crowns:
Crowns are a fantastic option for many patients, but there are alternatives to consider:
- Inlays: For moderate tooth damage, inlays act like fillings but are stronger and more durable.
- Onlays: Similar to inlays, onlays offer a more conservative approach for teeth with more extensive damage.
Inlays and Onlays may sometimes be known as partial crowns
- Veneers: These thin porcelain shells are ideal for restoring chipped, discoloured, or worn front teeth.
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