What is a crown?

A crown is a tooth-shaped cover placed over a tooth that is badly damaged or decayed. Crowns can be made out of metal, porcelain fused to metal (PFM), or ceramic. The more common types are PFM and ceramic crowns as they are usually the same colour as your natural teeth and look just like normal teeth.

A ceramic crown is preferred for its longer lasting, aesthetic qualities. A popular type of all-ceramic crown is a zirconia crown, which patients generally prefer for their front teeth as it has an appealing translucent colour which is combined with extra strength and durability. Ceramic is a top-grade material which has been harvested for its toughness, durability, and opaque qualities which makes it a highly prized crown.

PFM crowns, also known as full-cast crowns, are the most preferred type of crowns as they easily match the colour of the adjacent teeth better than metallic crowns. PFM crowns have porcelain fused on all, or most parts of the tooth. Metal alloys with a high melting temperature are used to fuse porcelain to the surface which prevents the metal from melting. This ensures the porcelain bonds do not change its colour. When the tooth is prepared, a large part of the tooth tissue is removed to make space for the porcelain, as well as the metal. PFM crowns are not suitable for patients with receding gums, as the porcelain can start to show quite distinctively. It is best to consult with your dentist to determine which type of dental bridge most closely meets your needs and requirements.

This procedure is not recommended for patients who have unsuitable roots or bone support.

The procedure

You will have an initial consultation with your dentist to discuss the suitability of the procedure, to communicate your desired goal, discuss options, and discuss the procedure. Sometimes, your tooth may require a root canal treatment before affixing the crown. A root canal treatment may be needed prior to your dental crown being affixed.

There are usually two appointments involved to complete the fitting of your dental crown(s). At your first appointment, if a root canal treatment is required, that will be undertaken first. Following that, your dentist will reduce your tooth to a stump which the crown can be cemented onto. A mould of your mouth will be taken so that the crown can be specially made in a laboratory. Your first appointment will usually last for about 1-hour. If a root canal treatment is required, this could take longer. At your second appointment, which is usually scheduled for a few days later, you will be given a local anaesthetic and your dental crown(s) will be cemented into place. Your second appointment will usually last for about 1-hour.

You should avoid eating on the dental crown immediately post-procedure, and certain foods which are hard or chewy should be avoided long-term as it could cause the dental crown to come loose. Most patients do not suffer a lot of discomfort following a dental crown fitting, however, if a root canal treatment was not done as part of the procedure, you may experience some additional sensitivity for a period of time post-procedure. If your dental crown continues to feel uncomfortable after the first week, you may need to have it adjusted. You are usually able to return to work immediately post-procedure.

How do I find the right dentist?

The best way is to speak to a few dentists, look up their reviews and find out which dentist you are most comfortable with. At Holiday Health, we can connect you to reputable and reliable dentists. We strongly suggest you take into consideration that the dentist you choose:

• is reputable and trustworthy;
• has a proven track record;
• is registered with or accredited by their local government or the governing medical body or association;
• has never been disqualified from practising anywhere in the world;
• has never been found guilty of endangering a patient’s life; and
• has never been found guilty of malpractice.

You should also include any preferences you might have. For example, you might be more comfortable with a female dentist, or someone who has more experience.

Important 

Before your procedure, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve with your dentist. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. Ensure you communicate your vision clearly to your dentist and re-confirm the intended procedure to ensure there is no miscommunication. Your dentist will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure, and what long-term benefits and side-effects you may experience. Every patient is different, and your dentist will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you.

Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided.

Please note. The information found on this website is purely for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon for its exactness or for its accuracy for your specific situation and/or for your specific procedure. The information provided is not a substitute for advice from your dentist as it may not contain all the known facts, risks and side effects of this procedure. Please consult with your dentist about your personal circumstances and about your personal procedure / treatment plan. We take no responsibility for any misinformation, inaccuracies, or for any loss or damage suffered by you in relation to the services we provide to you, or the information provided on our website.