If you suffer from a broken, weak or damaged tooth a crown can be placed over the tooth to restore its original size, shape and strength, as well as improving its appearance. They can be made from metal, ceramic or a mixture of both.
Unlike other treatments, such as implants, crowns allow you to keep the root of your tooth. The crown, which fits above the gum and over the existing tooth, is normally made from a metal shell covered in aesthetic porcelain for a more natural look. The crown is placed over the damaged tooth, restoring its original strength.
To fit a traditional crown usually requires two appointments.
During your first visit we will take impressions of your teeth and match your new crown’s colour to that of your surrounding teeth. We then create your custom made crown before you return for your second appointment, where we then bond it permanently into place.
Porcelain Crown
Posterior ceramic Crown
Crowns can be made from different materials depending on where the crown will be placed. For example, crowns made from porcelain are more popular because they look more like natural teeth and are perfect for teeth that are more visible. If your crown is going to be placed in the back of your mouth where it’s less likely to be seen, we may make your crown from a strong and solid gold alloy.
Because we use a local anaesthetic during the procedure your experience should be mostly pain free. Also, if your tooth’s nerve has been removed previously and we are making a post crown we probably won’t even need to use any anaesthetic at all. You may have some slight sensitivity for a short period of time after the crown is placed but it should settle within a few days.
Taking care of your new crown is as simple and straightforward as looking after your natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing will keep your crown clean and the gums surrounding it healthy. Some crowns may need a slight adjustment but otherwise it should look and feel healthy, strong, and natural.