Crowns

Dental crowns are a restorative treatment used to reinforce and strengthen damaged teeth. Crowns enable the tooth to work effectively and also improve the aesthetic of the tooth. Crowns are commonly known as caps because they sit on top of the existing teeth.

Who can benefit from crown treatment?

Crowns may be beneficial for people that have large cavities or extensive decay, as well as patients that have undergone root canal treatment. Crowns may also be attached to dental implants to create a natural looking, new tooth. Crowns may also be used for cosmetic reasons, to enhance the appearance of the teeth. Crowns can be made from a variety of different materials, including precious metals, porcelain and alloys of metal and ceramic materials. Most people choose to have porcelain crowns because they look natural and blend in with rest of the teeth.

What does the treatment involve?

During the procedure to fort a crown, the tooth must be prepared first. The preparation stage involves cleaning the tooth, removing decay and bacteria from the tooth and reshaping the tooth. Once the tooth has been prepared we will take an impression of the tooth and send it away to the dental laboratory, where the new crown will be manufactured. Once the crown has been returned it can be fitted and cemented to the tooth provided you are happy with it.

If crowns are well looked after, they can last around 15 years. This involves treating the tooth as a normal tooth and brushing, flossing and rinsing regularly.