Crowns and Bridges

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are a very common, popular solution to repair damaged or unsightly teeth. They take the form of a tooth-shaped ‘hat’ that sits over the problem tooth, encasing it entirely right down to the gum line. Crowns are an ideal way to restore the strength, shape, size and overall appearance of any damaged teeth.

What are dental crowns made of?

Crowns can be made from a variety of different materials including metal, porcelain fused to metal and 100% porcelain/ceramic. This means that there is usually at least one type of crown that is suitable for every patient.

Why has my dentist recommended a crown?

Crowns are usually only given to adult patients and may be recommended if:

• You have a broken or severely worn down tooth.

• You have a cracked tooth that needs to be held together.

• You have a severely weak tooth that is at risk of breaking.

• You are also having a dental bridge,
  as crowns can help hold them in place.

• You have a tooth that requires a larger filling than is possible (usually due to broken/eroded parts of the tooth).

• To cover a dental implant.

• You have a discolored tooth.

• Your tooth is severely misshapen.
  
  

Occasionally a dentist may recommend a crown for infant/first teeth. This is usually because:

• The child has a first tooth that is decayed beyond the treatment of a normal filling and a crown is the best option to protect it.

• The child is, for whatever reason, unable to complete or withstand proper oral care techniques, putting them at a much higher risk of tooth decay and its associated problems.

What are the benefits of dental crowns?

Dental crowns are a highly effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, allowing you to maintain normal function and protect your long-term dental health. A crown strengthens and supports a tooth that has:

• Extensive decay
• Undergone root canal treatment
• Significant wear, often due to grinding (bruxism)
• Cracks or fractures
• A need for support as part of a dental bridge

The cosmetic benefits offered by dental crowns are another key reason why they are a popular choice of treatment. Crowns can improve the appearance of the teeth by:

• Hiding discolored or stained teeth

• Adding height or width to teeth that are misshapen or undersized

• Covering a dental implant
  
  

With proper care, dental crowns are one of the most durable restorative options available.

Are there any negatives to dental crowns?

While thousands of dental crown procedures are performed across the country on a daily basis, there are still a few considerations that you should take into account before opting for this type of treatment:

• Tooth preparation: The natural tooth must be reshaped to accommodate the crown, which may require multiple visits. In some cases, severely damaged teeth may not be suitable candidates.
• Sensitivity or nerve involvement: A small percentage of patients may require root canal treatment following crown placement.
• Risk of infection: Proper cleaning and sealing are essential to minimize this risk.
• Material sensitivity: Although rare, some patients may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to certain materials.

How long can I expect my crown to last?

The life of your crown will vary depending on a number of factors including the amount of wear and tear the tooth is exposed to, and how well you look after your crown and surrounding teeth. However, you can typically expect your new crown to last between 5 and 15 years.

Will my dental crown be covered by my insurance?

Dental crowns are typically recommended for functional reasons and are often partially covered by dental insurance plans. Coverage varies depending on your provider and the type of crown used. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits prior to treatment.