A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that completely covers a damaged, weakened, or discolored tooth to restore its strength, shape, size, and appearance. Crowns are crafted to match your natural teeth in colour and contour, providing both functional support and esthetic enhancement. They protect compromised teeth from further damage and help restore proper chewing and bite function.
Why Choose a Dental Crown?
Your dentist may recommend a dental crown when a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling or other restoration. Common reasons include:
Dental crowns help preserve the remaining natural tooth structure, prevent further deterioration, and improve overall smile harmony.
Different materials are used to make crowns, each with specific advantages depending on your needs:
These crowns provide the most natural appearance because they mimic the translucency and colour of natural teeth.
A metal base gives strength, while the porcelain exterior provides a tooth-like appearance. These are durable and aesthetically versatile.
Made from gold alloys or base-metal alloys, metal crowns are highly durable and resistant to wear. They rarely chip and require minimal reduction of teeth treatment.
Zirconia crowns offer a strong, natural-looking restoration with excellent biocompatibility and durability. They are suitable for both front and back teeth.
These are less expensive and often used as temporary restorations while the permanent crown is being made.
The dentist examines your tooth and may take X-rays to assess the extent of damage and decide on the best crown option.
The tooth is gently reshaped under local anesthesia so the crown can fit securely.
An impression or digital scan is taken to create an exact model of your tooth.
A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth while your custom crown is being fabricated.
Once ready, the final crown is checked for fit, colour, and comfort, then permanently cemented in place.
Crowns safeguard weakened or damaged teeth, preventing further decay or fractures.
By removing plaque, dental cleaning lowers the risk of cavities and enamel damage.
You’ll be able to chew, bite, and speak comfortably with improved dental function.
Custom shading and shaping allow crowns to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
With proper care, crowns can last many years, making them a reliable restorative option.
No, the procedure is typically comfortable thanks to local anesthesia. Some sensitivity may occur afterward but usually subsides quickly.
Most crowns last 10 years or more with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Yes, crowns — especially porcelain or zirconia — can be matched in colour and shape to your teeth for a natural look.
Yes. After a short adjustment period, most patients eat and chew normally.
Crowns provide a more durable and protective restoration when a tooth is too damaged for a filling.