If a tooth has been weakened by decay, a large filling, or a crack, a dental crown is one of the more common ways dentists restore it. It’s a treatment that’s been around for a long time because it works well, but if you’ve never had one before, it helps to know what’s actually involved before your appointment.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the visible part of a damaged tooth, restoring its shape and protecting it from further damage. Crowns are often used alongside root canal treatment too, sitting over the tooth to shield it once the internal repair is done.
When might you need one?
- Protecting a weakened tooth or implant: a crown can shield a natural tooth or sit over an implant to help it function like a natural tooth.
- Restoring your bite: a crown can help you chew comfortably again where a damaged tooth was making it difficult.
- Replacing a large, failing filling: if a filling is no longer protecting the tooth from bacteria, a crown may offer a more durable solution.
- Supporting a bridge or denture: crowns are often part of a wider restorative plan.
- Finishing a root canal: a crown protects the treated tooth from future damage.
Whether a crown is the right option for your tooth depends on a proper assessment. Some situations are better suited to tooth-coloured fillings instead, and your dentist can talk you through the options that suit your specific tooth.
What does the process involve?
Crown treatment is typically spread across a couple of appointments. At the first visit, your dentist takes an impression of the tooth and matches the shade to the rest of your smile, then gently reshapes the tooth so the crown will fit over it comfortably. A temporary crown is placed while your custom crown is made, which usually takes a few weeks.
At the second appointment, the temporary crown comes off and the permanent one is fitted, checked for comfort and bite, and cemented into place. Local anaesthetic is used where needed to help keep the process comfortable.
What’s involved for you
Every case is a little different: the material used, the tooth involved, and the complexity of the work all play a part in what a crown involves. Rather than guess in general terms, the best next step is a proper assessment so we can talk you through exactly what’s involved for your specific tooth, and point you to our Fees & Payment information, when you come in.
Considering a crown?
If a tooth might need a crown, an assessment is the only way to know for certain. Our dentists will look at your crown and bridge treatment options and talk you through what’s involved, how long it takes, and what it will cost. Book a consultation with our Quakers Hill team and take the plan home to think about. Feel better about making a decision.
