Dental Crowns

Crowns are an ideal way to rebuild teeth which have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. A crown fits right over the remaining part of the tooth, making it strong and giving it the shape and contour of a natural tooth. Crowns are sometimes also known as ‘caps’. An ‘Anterior Crown’ is a term used to describe a crown fitted to the front eight teeth. Dental crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of damaged or worn teeth.

Why would I need a crown?

1. A natural tooth may have broken and restoring it with a filling is not possible
2. To prevent a tooth breaking (which has been weakened by a large filling)
3. You may have discolored fillings and would like to improve the appearance of the tooth.
4. A tooth which has been root treated will need a crown to protect it.
5. You may have had an accident and damaged the tooth.It may help hold a bridge or denture firmly in place.

Does it hurt to have a tooth prepared for a crown?

No. A local anesthetic is used and the preparation should feel no different from a filling. If the tooth does not have a nerve, and a post crown is being prepared, then local anesthetic may not be needed

How long will a crown last?

The life of a crown will depend on how well it is looked after.The crown itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the crown joins the tooth. It is very important to keep this area as clean as your other teeth, or decay could endanger the crown. Properly cared for crowns will last for many years – your dentist will be able to tell you how long.

Will the crown feel different?

Because the shape of the crown will be slightly different from the shape of your tooth before it was crowned, you may be aware of it to begin with. Within a few days it should feel fine, and you will not notice it. The crown may need some adjustment if it feels higher than the surrounding teeth. If it is at all uncomfortable ask your dentist to check and adjust it.

Crowns on implants

Different types of crowns can be used on dental implants, namely cement retained or screw retained crowns can be used. Click here for more information

 

See our price list for more information