What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits precisely over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. It covers the entire visible part of the tooth above the gum line, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. When made from the right material and fitted correctly, a crown looks and functions just like a natural tooth.
Crowns are one of the most versatile restorations in dentistry. They are used across a wide range of situations including:
- Protecting a tooth that has been weakened by extensive decay or a large filling
- Restoring a tooth that has been fractured or cracked
- Covering and strengthening a tooth following root canal treatment
- Securing a dental bridge in place
- Restoring a dental implant with a lifelike visible tooth
- Improving the appearance of a severely discoloured or misshapen tooth
When a crown is used to restore a dental implant, it forms the visible, natural-looking part of the replacement tooth that sits above the gum line. Crowns are also the restoration of choice following root canal treatment, where the treated tooth needs protection from fracture to function reliably long term.
Crown Materials Available at MK Smiles
The material used for your crown depends on several factors including the location of the tooth, the strength required, your bite, and your aesthetic priorities. At MK Smiles we will discuss the options with you and make a recommendation based on your specific situation.
Porcelain Crowns
Full porcelain crowns offer the most natural appearance of all crown materials. They reflect light in a way that closely mimics real tooth enamel, making them virtually indistinguishable from surrounding teeth. Porcelain crowns are an excellent choice for front teeth where aesthetics are the priority.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a high-strength ceramic material that combines excellent durability with a natural tooth-coloured appearance. Zirconia crowns are increasingly popular because they offer the aesthetic qualities of porcelain with greater resistance to chipping and wear. They are suitable for both front and back teeth and are a strong long-term option for most patients.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
These crowns have a metal inner structure for strength with a porcelain outer layer for aesthetics. They are durable and have been used successfully in dentistry for many years. A thin grey line at the gum margin can occasionally become visible over time, which is why full porcelain or zirconia options are often preferred for visible teeth.
Gold and Metal Crowns
Gold and metal alloy crowns are extremely strong and long-lasting. They are generally reserved for back teeth where strength is the primary concern and appearance is less critical. Some patients with heavy biting forces or bruxism find metal crowns the most practical long-term option.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With good care, dental crowns typically last between ten and twenty years. The longevity of your crown depends on the material chosen, the position of the tooth, your bite, and how well you maintain it.
Crowns benefit from the same care as natural teeth. Brush twice daily, clean between your teeth, attend regular hygiene appointments, and avoid habits such as grinding your teeth or using your teeth to open packaging. If you grind at night, your dentist may recommend a protective night guard to extend the life of your restoration.
Attending your regular dental hygiene appointments supports the longevity of your crown and the health of the gum tissue around it. A dental check-ups also allows us to monitor your crown and identify any early signs of wear or deterioration before they become a larger problem.
Happy Clients
“Best dental experience at MK Smiles! Highly recommend. I have recently seen Dr Aranxta with her nurse Bimola, at my dental practice where she has just completed composite bonding on my front 4 teeth and to say I am pleased with the outcome is an understatement! She is empathetic, kind, a true perfectionist and her work on my teeth is incredible!! They look so natural I cant believe they are my own teeth. At every stage she asked if I was happy with the shade, shape, edges and could not have been more professional. I have also had a dental implant at the practice with Dr Roshwin which I am very pleased with, and now at the stage where he is shortly fitting my implant crown. Fab experience at this practice, the patient care and service I have received is outstanding. I am looking forward to my return visit and thank you!!”.
FAQs
A: Your dentist will recommend a crown when a tooth has been damaged, weakened, or structurally compromised to the point where a filling alone would not provide adequate protection. Common reasons include extensive decay, a cracked or fractured tooth, a heavily filled tooth that has little natural structure remaining, or a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment. The decision is always explained clearly, and a written estimate is provided before any work begins.
A: The preparation appointment is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity around the prepared tooth is normal in the days between your preparation and fitting appointments while you are wearing the temporary crown. This settles once the permanent crown is in place. If at any point you are uncomfortable, contact us, and we will advise you.
A: Porcelain crowns offer the finest aesthetic result and are ideal for front teeth where colour matching is the priority. Zirconia crowns are stronger and more resistant to chipping, making them well suited to back teeth or patients with heavier biting forces. Modern zirconia is also more translucent than older versions, so it can be used effectively for visible teeth too. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate material based on your specific tooth and priorities.
A: It is uncommon but possible for a crown to become loose or detach, particularly if the cement has worn over time or if the tooth underneath has developed further decay. If your crown comes off, keep it safe and contact us as soon as possible. Do not attempt to re-cement it yourself. Avoid chewing on that side in the meantime and keep the area as clean as you can until we see you.
A: The cost depends on the material chosen and the complexity of the case. Porcelain and zirconia crowns are typically priced higher than metal alternatives due to the laboratory work involved. We provide a full written cost estimate at your consultation before any treatment is agreed, so there are no surprises. Contact our team to discuss current pricing and whether payment plan options are available.
