Dental Crowns at Pearl Smile Dental Group

Restoring a broken or damaged tooth

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is also sometimes referred to as a ‘cap’. It is custom – made in a dental laboratory by a skilled technician to be an exact fit for your tooth.

Partial crowns (also known as onlays) are also possible. Sometimes it can be better to have an onlay.

When would I need a Crown?

A dental crown can be used for many situations:

• When a tooth has become particularly weak and is no longer repairable by filling it. In many cases the tooth would simply break if it were to be filled. A crown will restore the strength of the tooth
• Broken teeth
• To hold a dental bridge / denture in place – to mask badly a discoloured tooth
• To place onto a dental implant where an original tooth has been lost
• To protect a tooth after root canal treatment
• To align teeth that are out of place
• For a smile makeover

What is the procedure for having a Crown?

Initially, a consultation with the dentist will be required to assess you. One visit is required to prepare the tooth, take an impression and place a temporary restoration. The second appointment is usually 14 days later to fit the crown. In between these visits, you may need to visit us to ensure the colour matches.

Will I feel any pain during the procedure?

There should be no pain felt during the procedure as the surrounding area will be anaesthetised leaving it numb.

How long will a Crown last?

The life span of a dental crown depends on many factors such as the type, and the wear and tear it receives as well as your oral health regime. It is reasonable though to expect one to last between five and fifteen years (possibly more). To assure a longer life span, we strongly advised not to grind your teeth or use excessive force on them in any other way. Naturally, a good regime of brushing and flossing should also be followed.

What are Crowns made from?

There are a variety of materials used for different dental crowns:

• Porcelain bonded to metal: These are very strong but can show a metal line if your gums recede and look a slightly dull due to metal underneath
• All ceramic crowns: These are metal free and very strong. As there is no metal to dull the appearance, they look very natural like the rest of your teeth
• Gold/metal crowns: Are very strong and resilient but will look different to your natural teeth