Crowns are an effective cosmetic procedure to cover up imperfections and other damage to the teeth. The visible area of the affected tooth is coated by a crown and this durable method can both improve appearance and the strength of the underlying tooth.

Why would I need a crown?

Wear on the teeth can arise from multiple factors, such as prolonged grinding of the teeth over time, unsuitable bite, tooth decay, old fillings, or the natural aging process. These problems can begin to deteriorate, crack or even break the teeth. Crowns are a productive route in restoring symmetry and creating a pleasing appearance, while also adding stability and strength to broken-down teeth. They can conceal misshapen, discoloured, chipped and otherwise imperfect teeth.

The crown-placing procedure

The cosmetic dentist takes an impression of the tooth or teeth to be covered, and the crowns are made by professionals in a dental laboratory. With weakened teeth, restoration is necessary before the crown is bonded to the tooth. Fillings are commonplace for increasing stability. A temporary crown can be fitted while the real crown is manufactured and then after two weeks the finished crown is cemented to the front of the tooth. The temporary crown is also important for determining any changes you want made to the colour of the cement.

What are crowns made from?

Dental crowns are usually made from porcelain, resin, gold, or metal. Some are more durable than others and the type best for you will depend on the problem to be corrected. Please speak to your cosmetic dentist for an in-depth consultation.

Porcelain and resin crowns

Porcelain and resin crowns are the most successful in terms of appearance, with a natural looking finish closely resembling real teeth. Using a pioneering bonding technique, the porcelain or reinforced resin is secured very strongly to the tooth. These veneers are especially useful for covering the front teeth due to their natural colouring. No metal is involved, which is a distinct advantage for patients sensitive to metals.

Porcelain and metal crowns

Porcelain and metal crowns involve a combination of the two materials for a more natural appearance combined with strength. These are often used for molars because the pressure and force on those particular teeth is sustained due to grinding and chewing. The metal substructure makes them unsuitable for those with metal sensitivity, and this also decreases the translucent, tooth mimicking properties due to the metal’s opaqueness.

Gold crowns

Gold crowns are surprisingly malleable when it comes to fitting the tooth precisely. They provide a more exact fit than all other crowns, but they are immediately noticeable and appear unnatural, making them inappropriate who want a natural look. However, gold crowns are very strong and extremely durable. While other crowns are occasionally at risk of chipping, gold crowns have no trouble in this regard.