Dental Crowns

Metal crowns may be made of materials including alloys of gold or other non-precious medal based alloys. These type of crowns require the least amount of tooth substance to be removed because the metal base is in thin section. Metal based crowns are very good at taking biting forces and are very good crowns to be placed in the back molar regions where aesthetics are not so important but chewing strength is.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns are very good choice for both anterior and posterior teeth. They can be colour matched to one’s own existing teeth.

Metal free all ceramic crowns represent the ultimate in high aesthetics and look like natural teeth.Zirconium and E-max crowns are translucent in color, which ensures the closest color match to your natural teeth. This also helps to eliminate the ugly metal band around the gum line that is characteristic of porcelain fused to metal crowns. Since they are made of ceramic, there is no risk of metal allergic reactions.

The lifespan of a dental crown can vary depending on several factors, including the material used, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and the amount of wear and tear the crown is subjected to. On average, dental crowns can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance.

Here are some factors that can affect the longevity of a dental crown:

1. Material: Different types of crown materials have different durability levels. For example, ceramic crowns are more prone to chipping or cracking compared to metal. However if the crown is made with the appropriate recommended dimensions, they will have longevity.

2. Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and attending regular dental check-ups, can help prolong the life of a dental crown by preventing decay and gum disease around the crown.

3. Teeth grinding: Habitual teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, can put excessive pressure on the crown and may cause it to wear down or become damaged over time.

4. Diet: Consuming hard or sticky foods can increase the risk of damaging or dislodging a dental crown. Avoid biting on hard objects like ice or using teeth to open packages.

5. Trauma: Accidents or injuries to the mouth can impact the integrity of a dental crown and may require repair or replacement.

If a dental crown becomes loose, damaged, or falls out, it is essential to see a dentist promptly for evaluation and potential repair or replacement. Regular dental check-ups can help detect any issues with dental crowns early on and ensure they are properly maintained for longevity.

Overall, with proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can provide long-lasting support and protection for a damaged or weakened tooth. Our dentists can provide guidance on how to care for your dental crown and recommend the best materials for your specific needs.

A dental crown is usually completed over two appointments. At your first visit, your dentist will numb the area with local anaesthesia and carefully reshape the tooth to create enough space for the crown. We then take either a digital scan or an impression of the tooth, which is sent to our dental laboratory to create your custom crown.

You’ll receive a temporary crown to protect the tooth while your final crown is being made.

At your second appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary crown, check the fit and colour of your new crown, and ensure it sits perfectly from the gumline to the top of the tooth. Once you’re happy, the crown is permanently cemented into place.

Preparing a tooth for a dental crown is not painful as local anaesthetic will usually be administered to ensure you do not feel any pain.

Replacing a dental crown is generally not painful. The tooth and surrounding area are numbed with local anaesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients feel only slight pressure while the old crown is removed and the tooth is prepared.

After the appointment, you may experience mild sensitivity for a day or two — this is completely normal and settles quickly. If you ever feel discomfort beyond this, our team is here to help.

The main disadvantage of having a crown is that it usually requires some preparation of your tooth to create space for the crown. However crowns are usually recommended on teeth that are structurally compromised and therefore most of the preparation occurs on parts of the teeth that have already previously been lost as a result of decay or trauma.

Crowns are usually recommended on root canal treated teeth but can also be recommended on teeth in which the nerve is still vital. There is a chance on vital teeth that the tooth may be sensitive for a small period of time post fitting of the crown. However ensuring the preparation is minimal and as little as possible can help reduce the risk of this. If we are worried about the status of the nerve our dentists will inform you about this and discuss the options in more detail.

The cost of a dental crown will vary according to the material chosen and also the dental laboratory that is used to fabricate the crown. At the Cosmetic Dental Gallery we have established excellent relationships with our exceptional dental labs who ensure excellent aesthetic outcomes on the crowns they provide. Typically the cost of a ceramic or porcelain crown will start from £850.

Often the term cap is used interchangeably with a crown. A dental cap is usually the term a patient will use but the dental terminology is a crown.

A crown may be required to restore a decayed tooth. However all of the decay must be removed first before placing a crown. Often our dentists will remove the decay, restore the tooth with a composite resin and then prepare the tooth for a crown if required. This way we can ensure all of the decayed area of the tooth has been removed and therefore all of the bacterial contaminants have been removed.

Dental crowns are strong and long-lasting, and with proper care they can last many years. To keep your crown in excellent condition, we recommend the following:

• Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss or use interdental brushes around the crown to prevent plaque buildup.
• Avoid very hard or sticky foods that could dislodge or crack the crown.
• Attend regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments so we can monitor the crown and surrounding gum health.
• If you grind your teeth at night, consider a nightguard to protect your crown and natural teeth.

An alternative option to a crown would be a partial crown or onlay. An onlay tends to involve less preparation of the tooth as it only extends from a third to half way down the tooth structure. Often an onlay will be suggested for teeth that are vital as it preserves more tooth structure and reduces the risk of nerve irritation. An onlay may not be suitable if a significant portion of the tooth has been lost or damaged and so a full coverage crown may be suggested.

The decision to go for a large filling or an onlay/crown will be based on the structural assessment of the tooth by our dentists. A large filling does not provide any structural strength to the tooth and when a tooth requires a restoration of a significant size an onlay or crown will be the preferred option.