Dental Crown

What is a crown?

A crown is an artificial lab-made restoration that fits over the remaining part of a prepared tooth, making it strong and giving it the shape of a natural tooth. Here at Williams Dental Care, we work closely with our lab technician team to ensure our patients' expectations are always achieved.

Why would I need a crown?

Crowns are an ideal way to repair teeth that have been broken or have been weakened by tooth decay or an extensive filling. A crown could be used for a number of other reasons, for example:

• You may have a discoloured filling and would like to improve the tooth's appearance.
• You may have had a root filling and need a crown to protect what is left of the tooth.
• It may help to hold a bridge or denture firmly in place.

How is a crown prepared?

The dentist will prepare the tooth to the ideal shape for the crown. This will involve removing a layer of the outer surface, leaving a strong inner core. The amount of the tooth removed will be the same as the thickness of the crown.

Once the tooth is shaped, the dental team will take an impression (mould) of the prepared tooth, one of the opposite jaw and possibly another to show the way you bite together.

The impressions will then be given to a dental technician, along with information about the shade to use and any other information they need to create your custom made crown. 

What will happen between visits?

A temporary crown will be made so that you can use the tooth while you wait for the crown to be made. This crown may be more noticeable but is only temporary.

How is the crown fitted?

When you and your dentist are happy with the fit and appearance of the new crown, it will be fixed in place with special dental cement or adhesive. The cement forms a seal to hold the crown in place.

How long does the treatment take?

You will need to have at least two visits. At the first visit, your dental team will prepare the tooth, take the impressions, make a note of the shade of your tooth, and fit the temporary crown. At the second visit, your dentist will fit the permanent crown. There will usually be about 1 to 2 weeks between appointments.

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

No. You will have a local anaesthetic and the preparation work should feel no different from a filling. 

How do I care for my crown?

It is important to keep the crown just as clean as you would your natural teeth. The crown itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the crown joins the tooth. Brush last thing at night and at least one other time during the day with a fluoride toothpaste, and clean in between your teeth with ‘interdental' brushes or floss.

How long will the crown last?

How long your crown lasts depends on how well you look after it. Properly cared-for crowns should last for many years. Your dental team will be able to tell you how long your crown may be expected to last.