Dental Crowns: All you need to know about tooth crowns

Everyone wants the perfect smile. So it’s not surprising that cosmetic dental procedures have increased in popularity over recent years, as more people than ever before realise the many benefits that come hand in hand with restoring their smile.

Dental crowns are a great way to protect and restore the shape of your teeth when fillings are not able to rectify the issue. Made from a range of different metals, porcelain, resin and ceramics, they can be used to protect, cover and restore the shape of your teeth.

Not sure if tooth crowns are the best option for you? Here’s our guide to everything you need to know.

WHAT IS A CROWN ON A TOOTH?

A crown is a type of cap that covers all of your natural tooth. Made from metal, ceramic, or porcelain, crowns are used to enhance the aesthetic appearance of a tooth, or cover up damaged, decayed or broken teeth.

HOW DOES A TOOTH CROWN WORK?

Tooth crowns are tailored tooth-shaped caps that can be placed over your tooth to restore its appearance. Improving the appearance, size, shape and even the strength of your tooth, this treatment covers the whole of the tooth once it is fixed into place.

WHAT IS A CROWN TOOTH MADE OF?

The majority of tooth crowns are made from a porcelain-based material which is then fused with metal to form a stronger bond. One of the main advantages of using this material is that it is incredibly durable and strong. Other metals are also used to form the crown, including a mix of gold and copper.

METAL CROWNS

Metal-based and steel crowns are also known as silver tooth crowns. They are used to cap teeth that are damaged and decayed, as well as teeth that need protection following all different types of dental procedures.

RESIN

The vast majority of resin crowns are only used as a temporary measure until a permanent crown is made. Resin crowns can protect teeth on a short term basis and are not a long term solution.

HOW IS A DENTAL CROWN FITTED?

The process involved in fitting your new tooth crown is relatively straightforward once your crown has been manufactured. Following a thorough consultation to determine whether or not this is the best treatment option for you, your dentist will then complete the procedure.

The procedure involves filing down and removing the outer layer of the tooth. An impression is then made of your tooth, as well as your surrounding teeth so that your crown can be made to fit perfectly. Whilst your crown is being made, a temporary crown will be placed over your tooth to protect it.

HOW LONG DOES A TOOTH CROWN LAST?

On average, a crown can last anywhere between 10 and 30 years, providing that you look after your teeth and maintain a high standard of dental hygiene. This means flossing and cleaning your teeth twice a day.

However, you should be aware that although some crowns last a lifetime, others may crack and need to be replaced.

HOW TO FIX A BROKEN CROWN

If your crown is damaged, it may be possible to repair it. However, this all depends on the extent of the damage. If the damage is minimal, your dentist will generally be able to repair the tooth using resin or simply reshaping and smoothing the tooth. However, if the damage is more extensive, the dental crown may need to be replaced.