Dental Crowns

Although tooth enamel is the strongest structure of the human body, it cannot heal itself. Failure to properly restore a compromised tooth increases the risks of further complications and may even lead to tooth loss.

Dental crowns can increase the strength and stability of a badly damaged tooth, protecting it from further damage. When a tooth does not have enough remaining sound structure left to be restored by a normal filling, a dental crown is usually recommended.

A dental crown is a custom-made tooth-shaped cap precisely fitted over the remaining part of your existing tooth. Porcelain crowns restore the shape, size, appearance, function and colour of your tooth, resulting in a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

Crowns are usually made of highly aesthetic materials (porcelain or zirconia), offering a natural appearance and durability. They may also be made out of metal (e.g. gold) depending on your particular condition and needs.

Dental crowns are usually recommended to:

• Restore broken or fractured teeth;
• Repair badly decayed or worn down teeth;
• Replace very large fillings;
• Strengthen weakened teeth;
• Correct discoloured or misshapen teeth;
• Protect root-filled teeth;
• Improve function.

Crowns are highly durable and will last many years, but they may eventually need replacing, as is the case with most dental restorations. In general, crowns can last ten years or more. But they may provide a lifetime of service, providing you maintain good oral hygiene and regularly visit the dentist. Also, always remember, while your crown is immune from decay, the tooth underneath it isn’t.