A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, weakened, or aesthetically compromised tooth. It restores the tooth's shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are one of the most common and reliable dental restorations, and if your dentist has recommended one, here is everything you need to know.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Your dentist may recommend a crown in these situations:
- After a root canal — Root canal-treated teeth become brittle and need a crown to prevent fracture
- Large filling or cavity — When a tooth has too little natural structure left for a filling to hold
- Cracked or fractured tooth — A crown holds the tooth together and prevents further damage
- Worn-down teeth — From grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion
- Cosmetic improvement — To improve the shape, colour, or alignment of a tooth
- On top of a dental implant — The crown is the visible tooth that attaches to the implant
- As part of a dental bridge — Crowns on either side anchor the bridge
Types of Dental Crowns
Porcelain (Ceramic) Crowns
Made entirely from ceramic material. They offer the best aesthetics and are ideal for front teeth where appearance matters most. Modern porcelain crowns (especially e.max and lithium disilicate) are also very strong.
Zirconia Crowns
Made from zirconium dioxide, an extremely strong ceramic. Zirconia crowns are the strongest option and are excellent for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces. Modern zirconia can also be made to look very natural, making it a versatile all-round choice.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
A metal base covered with a porcelain outer layer. PFM crowns offer good strength and reasonable aesthetics. However, the metal base can sometimes show as a dark line at the gum margin over time, which is why they are less popular today.
Metal (Gold or Base Metal) Crowns
Made entirely from metal alloy. These are the most durable crowns and require the least amount of tooth to be removed. However, their metallic appearance makes them unsuitable for visible teeth. They are occasionally used for back teeth in patients who grind heavily.
The Crown Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits:
Visit 1: Preparation (45 to 60 minutes)
- Numbing — Local anaesthesia is applied
- Tooth shaping — The tooth is filed down on all sides to make room for the crown
- Impression — A digital scan or physical impression is taken and sent to the dental lab
- Temporary crown — A plastic temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made
Visit 2: Fitting (20 to 30 minutes, about 1 to 2 weeks later)
- Removal of temporary crown
- Try-in — The permanent crown is checked for fit, colour, and bite
- Cementation — Once everything looks good, the crown is permanently bonded to the tooth
How long does a crown take? The entire process from first visit to final crown is typically 1 to 2 weeks. You wear a temporary crown in between visits, so you are never without a tooth.
Crown Costs at Trust Dental Surgery
Crown prices vary depending on the material:
- Porcelain (e.max) crown — From $800
- Zirconia crown — From $800
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crown — From $650
- Metal crown — From $600
All prices are before GST (9%). Your dentist will recommend the best material based on the tooth location, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or more. Some well-maintained crowns can last over 20 years. Factors that affect longevity include oral hygiene, grinding habits, the material used, and the skill of the dentist and lab technician.
Caring for Your Crown
- Brush and floss normally — Pay special attention to the gum line around the crown
- Avoid very hard foods — Don't chew ice, hard candy, or use your teeth to open things
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Regular dental check-ups — Your dentist will monitor the crown at each visit