A dental crown, also known as a “cap,” is a custom-made restoration placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to protect it and restore its natural appearance. At Zental, we combine advanced technology with expert craftsmanship to deliver crowns that are strong, comfortable, and indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, also known as a dental cap or tooth crown is a protective cover that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth.
A dental crown is typically recommended when a tooth is:
- Severely decayed or fractured, such as a damaged, weakened or broken teeth
- Damaged or missing tooth that need restoration due to injury, decay, or after a worn down tooth has lost structure
- A weak tooth that requires reinforcement to prevent further issues
- Worn down or misshapen, or when a tooth is discoloured and resistant to whitening
- Supporting a dental bridge or covering an implant
- To protect teeth from further damage
Dental Crown Benefits
Dental crowns offer a wide range of benefits:
Restores Functionality: Enables normal chewing and speaking by reinforcing weakened teeth and helping to restore damaged teeth.
Improves Aesthetics: Matches the colour and shape of your natural teeth for a seamless smile.
Protects Against Further Damage: Shields vulnerable teeth from fractures and decay, helping to protect teeth from additional harm.
Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, a dental crown can last upto 30 years or more.
Boosts Confidence: A healthy, attractive smile can enhance self-esteem and social comfort.
Supports Other Treatments: A dental crown is essential for dental implants, bridges, and post-root canal treatment.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns come in a variety of types, each designed to address specific dental needs and preferences. Choosing the right crown is an important part of your dental restoration journey, as it ensures the best fit, function, and appearance for your smile. Here is a closer look at the most common types of dental crowns available:
Temporary Crowns
During the dental crown procedure, temporary crowns play a crucial role in protecting the prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being custom-made. These temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic or stainless steel and are designed to maintain function and comfort until your new crown is ready. Temporary crowns ensure that your tooth remains covered and safe throughout the treatment process until your permanent dental crown procedure.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns, including stainless steel crowns and gold crowns, are renowned for their exceptional durability. Crafted from strong metal alloys, these crowns are highly resistant to wear and can withstand the powerful chewing forces found in the back teeth. While their metallic color makes them less popular for front teeth, metal crowns are an excellent choice for restoring damaged or weakened teeth in areas where strength is the top priority. Gold crowns, in particular, are valued for their longevity and gentle interaction with opposing teeth.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns, are favored for their ability to closely mimic natural teeth. These crowns are often chosen for front teeth, where aesthetics are especially important. Porcelain crowns are biocompatible, making them a comfortable option for most patients, and they provide a seamless blend with your natural tooth color and shape. If you’re looking to restore a chipped tooth or improve the look of a discolored tooth, porcelain crowns offer a beautiful, lifelike solution.
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns, such as zirconia crowns, combine strength with a natural look. Zirconia crowns are extremely durable and can be used for both front and back teeth, offering a balance between resilience and aesthetics. Their opacity makes them particularly effective for covering teeth with dark discoloration or for patients who want a metal-free option. Ceramic crowns are crafted to match your natural tooth structure, ensuring a comfortable and attractive result.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
Porcelain fused to metal crowns (PFM) offer the best of both worlds: the strength of a metal base with the natural appearance of a porcelain exterior. This type of crown is a popular choice for patients who need a durable restoration that also looks like a natural tooth. PFM crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth, providing reliable protection for weakened teeth while maintaining a pleasing appearance.
Selecting the right type of crown involves careful consideration of your dental health, the location of the tooth, and your personal preferences. Dentists and dental technicians work closely together to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs, ensuring that your new crown fits perfectly and restores both the function and beauty of your smile. By understanding the different types of dental crowns, you can make informed decisions about your dental care and achieve the best possible outcome for your oral health.
Dental Crown Procedure
At Zental, your crown journey is designed to be smooth, comfortable, and tailored to your needs. Here’s what to expect: The process may vary depending on the crown types selected as part of your dental treatment.
Consultation & Assessment
Your dentist will examine your tooth and discuss your goals. Digital scans or X-rays may be taken to assess the tooth’s condition and surrounding structures.
Tooth Preparation
The tooth is gently reshaped to create space for the crown. The tooth must be properly prepared (tooth prepared) before the crown can be made. If necessary, a core build-up is done to support the crown securely.
Digital Impressions
We use advanced scanning technology to capture precise 3D images of your teeth—no messy impression trays required.
Temporary Crown Placement
A temporary crown is fitted to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is crafted in our top-tier London based lab.
Final Crown Fitting
Once ready, your permanent crown is carefully placed, adjusted for fit and bite, and bonded securely. Having a crown fitted may feel slightly different at first, but it quickly becomes comfortable and provides support for damaged teeth while improving appearance. The result is a natural-looking, long-lasting restoration.
Whether you need a crown for protection, aesthetics, or both, choosing a trusted dental partner is essential for quality care and long-term satisfaction. Zental offers world-class care in a tranquil setting.
See our comprehensive list of treatments and learn more about how Zental can help you achieve a healthier, happier and longer life!
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