A damaged, broken or heavily filled tooth doesn’t have to mean extraction. Dental crowns offer a proven solution that can restore both function and appearance, protecting your natural tooth for years to come.
If you’re considering a crown or your dentist has recommended one, understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks can help you make an informed decision. This guide explores everything you need to know about dental crowns, from what they are and when you might need one, to the materials available and the costs involved.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits securely over your entire natural tooth. Think of it as a protective shell that restores the tooth’s strength, structure and appearance whilst preventing further deterioration.
Crowns are used when a standard filling isn’t sufficient to support the tooth. They’re one of the most reliable restorative treatments in general dentistry, designed to look and feel completely natural. At Fitzroy Dental Practice, our clinicians offer a range of crown materials, including advanced ceramics that blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth for a discreet, aesthetic finish.
How Is a Dental Crown Different from a Dental Cap?
There’s no difference. “Crown” and “cap” are simply two names for the same restoration. The term “cap” comes from the way the restoration caps or covers your tooth. Both terms are used interchangeably in dental practices, including at Fitzroy Dental Practice.
When Are Dental Crowns Needed?
A crown may be recommended if you have:
- A damaged or weakened tooth that needs reinforcement
- A tooth requiring protection after root canal treatment
- A broken or heavily filled tooth that can’t be restored with a filling alone
- Aesthetic concerns with the shape, colour or appearance of a tooth
- A dental bridge that needs support from adjacent teeth
Crowns offer durability, stability and excellent cosmetic results, making them a versatile solution across general and restorative dentistry.
Types of Dental Crowns Available
Dental crowns can be crafted from various materials, each with its own strengths. The best choice depends on the location of the tooth, your budget and your aesthetic preferences.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
These crowns combine a metal base with a porcelain coating. They’re strong and durable, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. However, the porcelain layer can chip over time, and the metal base may create a dark line near the gum as gums recede.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a modern ceramic material known for its exceptional strength and durability. These crowns can withstand heavy chewing forces and are gentle on opposing teeth, reducing enamel wear. They also offer excellent aesthetics, mimicking the translucency of natural tooth enamel.
E-Max/Lithium Disilicate Crowns
E-Max crowns are made from lithium disilicate ceramic, offering outstanding aesthetics and strength. They’re highly translucent and provide a natural appearance, making them an excellent choice for front teeth. They’re also biocompatible and kind to surrounding gum tissue.
All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns
These crowns are crafted entirely from ceramic materials and offer the most natural appearance. They’re ideal if you have metal allergies or want the most aesthetic result. Whilst they may not be as strong as metal-based crowns, modern ceramics are highly durable.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns (including gold alloys) are incredibly strong and rarely chip or break. They last the longest and require minimal removal of natural tooth structure. The main drawback is their metallic appearance, which makes them more suitable for back teeth.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several significant benefits:
Restore Strength and Function
Crowns reinforce weakened teeth, allowing you to chew and bite normally without discomfort. They’re particularly effective for teeth that have undergone root canal treatment or have large fillings.
Protect Against Further Damage
By covering the entire visible portion of the tooth, crowns prevent decay, cracks and fractures from spreading. This protection can save your natural tooth from extraction.
Improve Appearance
Crowns can dramatically enhance the look of discoloured, misshapen or damaged teeth. They’re custom-made to match the shade and contour of your surrounding teeth, creating a natural, confident smile.
Long-Lasting Solution
With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns typically last between five and 15 years. Some can last even longer, up to 30 years, depending on the material and how well you care for them.
Versatile Treatment
Crowns can address multiple dental issues simultaneously, from decay and damage to cosmetic concerns. They can also support dental bridges and cover dental implants.
Disadvantages of Dental Crowns
Whilst crowns offer many benefits, it’s important to understand the potential drawbacks:
Requires Removal of Natural Tooth Structure
To fit properly, a crown requires your dentist to remove some of your natural tooth enamel. This preparation is permanent and cannot be reversed. However, this step is necessary to create a strong foundation and ensure a secure fit.
Initial Sensitivity
It’s common to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for the first few weeks after crown placement. This usually subsides as your tooth adjusts. If sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks or becomes painful, contact your dentist.
Risk of Chipping or Breaking
Whilst crowns are durable, porcelain and ceramic crowns can chip, especially if subjected to excessive force like biting on hard objects or grinding your teeth. Metal crowns are less likely to chip, but may not be aesthetically suitable for all teeth.
Potential for Bacteria and Decay
If a crown doesn’t fit properly or oral hygiene is neglected, bacteria can become trapped between the crown and your natural tooth. This can lead to decay at the margins. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene help prevent this issue.
Cost Considerations
Dental crowns represent a significant investment. Costs vary depending on the material chosen and the complexity of your case. At Fitzroy Dental Practice, crowns range from £750 to £850 or more, depending on the type.
Rare Allergic Reactions
Some people may have allergic reactions to the metals used in certain crowns. If you have known metal allergies, inform your dentist so they can recommend suitable alternatives like all-ceramic crowns.
The Dental Crown Procedure at Fitzroy Dental Practice
Understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns about the crown procedure.
First Appointment: Assessment & Preparation
Your dentist will assess your tooth and prepare its surface by carefully reshaping it. This creates the ideal foundation for your new crown. We then take precise impressions using advanced digital scanning technology to capture the exact shape of your teeth. These impressions guide our specialist technicians in crafting your bespoke crown.
Whilst your permanent crown is being created at our laboratory (typically taking two to three weeks), we’ll fit you with a temporary crown to protect your tooth.
Second Appointment: Final Crown Placement
Once your custom crown is ready, you’ll return for a second visit. We’ll remove your temporary crown, check the fit, shape and colour of your new crown, and make any necessary adjustments. When you’re happy with the result, we’ll securely bond the crown in place using strong dental cement. This final step restores both function and appearance, giving your tooth long-lasting protection.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
With good oral hygiene and routine dental check-ups, crowns can last for many years. To extend the lifespan of your restoration:
- Brush twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss once every day to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth
- Avoid extremely hard, crunchy or chewy foods like ice cubes, hard nuts and sticky sweets
- Attend regular dental examinations so your dentist can monitor your crown and address any issues early
- Wear a mouth guard if you grind your teeth to protect your crown from excessive force
Alternatives to Dental Crowns
Depending on your specific situation, there may be alternatives worth considering:
Inlays and Onlays
If your tooth is too damaged for a filling but too healthy to warrant a crown, an inlay or onlay may be suitable. These restorations fit into the affected portion of your tooth like a puzzle piece, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
Dental Veneers
If you have cosmetic concerns but no decay or structural damage, veneers might be a better option. These thin ceramic shells adhere to the front surfaces of your teeth, covering chips, cracks and discolouration.
Tooth Extraction and Dental Implant
If a tooth is severely decayed or broken beyond repair, a crown may not offer a predictable outcome. In these cases, extraction followed by a dental implant may be the most effective long-term solution.
Dental Crown Cost and Payment Options
The cost of a dental crown depends on several factors, including the material chosen, the complexity of the case and the location of the tooth.
At Fitzroy Dental Practice, our crown costs are:
- Porcelain Bonded to Metal Crowns: From £750
- Zirconia Crowns: From £850
- E-Max/Lithium Disilicate Crowns: From £850
Interest-Free Finance
We understand that dental treatment represents a significant investment. That’s why we offer flexible payment options, including:
- 0% interest-free finance over 12 months
- No upfront payment required
- Quick, simple online application
- No hidden fees or unexpected charges
This makes treatment more affordable and allows you to manage your budget without delaying necessary care.
The cost of a dental crown depends on several factors, including the material chosen, the complexity of the case and the location of the tooth.
At Fitzroy Dental Practice, our crown costs are:
- Porcelain Bonded to Metal Crowns: From £750
- Zirconia Crowns: From £850
- E-Max/Lithium Disilicate Crowns: From £850
Interest-Free Finance
We understand that dental treatment represents a significant investment. That’s why we offer flexible payment options, including:
- 0% interest-free finance over 12 months
- No upfront payment required
- Quick, simple online application
- No hidden fees or unexpected charges
This makes treatment more affordable and allows you to manage your budget without delaying necessary care.
Why Choose Fitzroy Dental Practice for Your Crown?
At Fitzroy Dental Practice, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care tailored to your individual needs. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced clinicians who take the time to explain your options and answer your questions
- Advanced technology, including digital scanning for precise impressions
- High-quality materials from specialist dental laboratories
- Bespoke crowns designed to match your natural teeth perfectly
- Flexible payment options to make treatment accessible
Our patients consistently praise our professional, friendly approach and the natural-looking results we achieve.
Is a Dental Crown Right for You?
Dental crowns offer a reliable, long-lasting solution for damaged, weakened or aesthetically compromised teeth. Whilst they require some removal of natural tooth structure and represent a financial investment, the benefits restored function, protection against further damage, and improved appearance often far outweigh the drawbacks.
The best way to determine whether a crown is right for you is to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We’ll assess your specific situation, discuss all available options, and create a personalised treatment plan that meets your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, dental crowns typically last between 10 and 15 years. Their longevity depends on good daily care and habits like avoiding grinding or using teeth as tools.
How is a dental crown fitted?
Your dentist prepares the tooth, takes precise impressions, and places a temporary crown. A dental laboratory then crafts your bespoke permanent crown, which we bond securely to your tooth at your next visit.
What are crowns made of dental?
Dental crowns are commonly made from materials like advanced ceramics, porcelain, or metal alloys. Your dentist recommends the specific material based on the tooth’s position and your aesthetic goals.
What does a dental crown look like?
A dental crown replicates the shape, colour, and translucency of a natural tooth. Our custom-made crowns blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth for a discreet and natural-looking finish.
Is having a crown painful?
Having a crown fitted is not painful, as we use local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. You may experience some mild sensitivity after the procedure, which subsides quickly.
Can you get a crown without a root canal?
Yes, you can get a dental crown without a root canal if the tooth’s nerve is healthy and uninflamed. A crown strengthens and protects a damaged tooth, while a root canal treats infection or nerve damage inside the tooth.
