The dental crown procedure is a common way to fix a damaged or weak tooth. A crown is like a protective cap that covers your tooth to make it stronger and look better. It can help keep your tooth structure strong and support your oral health.
In this article, we will take you through the dental crown placement process step by step. You will learn what to expect at your dental clinic, from your initial consultation to post-procedure care.
We will also explain the different types of dental crowns and how they can help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile.
What Is A Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a prepared tooth. It helps restore the shape, strength, and function of your tooth, making it look and feel natural. Crowns are often needed when teeth are too damaged for a simple filling but still have enough structure to hold a restoration.
Crowns can be made from different materials, each with its own benefits. Some crowns are designed to look just like natural teeth, while others are made for extra strength and durability. Your dentist will help you choose the best option for your needs.
Types Of Dental Crowns
There are different types of dental crowns, each designed to suit different needs. Your dentist will help you choose the best option based on your oral health, the location of the tooth, and your personal preferences.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are one of the most popular choices because they look just like natural teeth. They are designed to blend in with your smile, making them an excellent option for front teeth.
Since they match the natural tooth colour, they provide a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. These crowns are also stain-resistant, which means they can keep their bright and clean appearance for a long time.
Gold And Metal Alloy Crowns
Gold and metal crowns are incredibly strong and durable. If you need a crown for a back tooth, where there is a lot of pressure from chewing, this type of crown can be a great option.
Gold crowns have been used in dentistry for many years because they are long-lasting and gentle on surrounding teeth.
Metal alloy crowns provide similar benefits but can be a more budget-friendly alternative. These crowns are highly resistant to wear, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns offer a great balance between durability and a natural look. They are often for people who want a metal-free option while still achieving a tooth-coloured restoration.
Ceramic crowns work well for both front and back teeth. They are designed to match the shape and shade of your natural teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit and an attractive smile. These crowns are also a great option for people with metal allergies.
CEREC Crowns
CEREC crowns are a modern option that allows you to get a custom dental crown in just one visit. Unlike traditional crowns, which need more than one appointment, CEREC crowns are designed and placed on the same day.
Using advanced CAD/CAM technology, your dentist will take a scan of your tooth, design your crown, and create it using high-quality ceramic. This process is fast, convenient, and ensures a natural appearance.
Why You Might Need A Dental Crown
Your dental professional may recommend a tooth crown for different reasons. You may need a dental crown if you have:
- A Weak Tooth: If your tooth is cracked or worn down, a dental crown can prevent further damage and make it strong again.
- A Broken Tooth: A broken tooth can make it hard to chew or talk properly. A crown can cover the damaged tooth, keeping it strong and functional.
- Severe Tooth Decay: When decay is too extensive for a simple filling, a crown can restore the tooth while keeping its natural appearance.
- A Missing Tooth: If you have lost a tooth, an implant can be positioned in your jawbone, and a custom dental crown will be attached to restore your smile.
- A Tooth That Got Root Canal Treatment: After root canal treatment, a tooth can become fragile. A permanent dental crown helps protect it from breaking.
- Discoloured Teeth: If discoloured teeth do not respond to whitening, a tooth crown can give you a more natural appearance.
- Desire To Restore Balance To Your Bite: A crown can help improve how your teeth fit together, making chewing and speaking more comfortable.
The Dental Crown Procedure
The dental crown placement process usually happens over 2–3 visits to your dental clinic. Each step is important to ensure your new crown fits well, looks natural, and feels comfortable.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your dental professional will start with an initial consultation to check your oral health and see if a dental crown procedure is right for you.
The dentist will examine your damaged tooth, take X-rays if needed, and discuss your treatment options. If a dental crown is the best choice, the dentist will explain the process and what to expect and answer any questions you may have.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
Before placing the final crown, your dental professional will prepare your affected tooth. This step includes:
- Removing decay or damage to make sure your tooth is healthy.
- Reshaping the tooth to create enough space for the custom dental crown.
- Ensuring enough tooth structure to support the dental crown securely. Your dentist may use a local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable during this process.
Step 3: Dental Impressions
Once your tooth preparation is complete, the dentist will take dental impressions. These impressions help create a dental crown that matches your surrounding teeth’s shape, size, and natural colour.
The impressions are sent to a laboratory, where your final dental crown is designed to ensure a natural and comfortable fit.
Step 4: Temporary Crown Placement
While your permanent crown is being made, your dentist will place a temporary one over your prepared tooth. This temporary crown placement helps protect your weakened tooth, allowing you to eat and speak until your final crown is ready.
The temporary dental crown is not as strong as the permanent one, so you may need to avoid hard or sticky foods during this time.
Step 5: Permanent Crown Placement
Once your new dental crown is ready, you will return to the clinic for your crown placement. Your dentist will:
- Remove the temporary crown.
- Look at the fit, colour, and shape of the permanent crown to ensure it blends with your natural teeth.
- Use dental cement to bond the final dental crown securely onto the prepared tooth.
After your dental crown procedure, your dentist will provide guidance on proper care to help maintain it for years to come. Regular visits will also help keep your dental health in top condition.
Proper Care After Dental Crown Treatment
Taking care of your dental crown helps keep your teeth healthy and makes sure your crown lasts a long time. With good daily care and regular dental visits, your crowned tooth can stay strong and look great for years.
Brush Your Teeth Twice A Day
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your dental crown and natural teeth.
Brushing in the morning and before bed removes food and plaque, keeping your oral health in good shape. Be gentle when brushing around your crown to avoid irritating your gums.
Floss Every Day
Flossing helps clean between your adjacent teeth and around your crown. It removes food and plaque that brushing might miss. You can use either regular floss or a water flosser to keep your dental health in top condition.
Be Careful With Hard Or Sticky Foods
Even though dental crowns are strong, biting down on hard foods like ice or nuts could damage them. Sticky foods, like caramel or gums, can pull on your crown and loosen it. If your crown feels sensitive after your dental crown procedure, try to eat soft foods.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Seeing your dental professional for regular check-ups will help keep your crown and natural teeth healthy. Your dentist can check your dental crown, clean around your surrounding teeth, and spot any problems early.
If you feel tooth sensitivity or discomfort or notice any issues with your crown, book an appointment as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dental crown last?
With a good level of care, a dental crown can last 10 years or longer.
Can a crowned tooth get cavities?
While the crown itself cannot decay, the underlying natural tooth structure can still develop cavities. Regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene are essential.
Is a dental crown better than a filling?
A crown provides more protection than a filling, especially for weakened teeth or those with extensive decay.
What happens if my dental crown falls off?
Contact your dental clinic if your tooth crown comes loose or falls off. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until your dentist can replace or repair your crown.
Conclusion
A dental crown procedure is a great way to protect and restore a damaged tooth. Whether you need a tooth crown for a broken tooth or decayed teeth or to improve your smile, your dental professional can help you find the right solution. With proper dental crown care, your crown can last for many years, keeping your smile strong and healthy.
If you think you need a dental crown, we’re here to help! Our friendly team in Mosman is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the dental crown procedure.
Call Advanced Dental Care today at (02) 9969 3982 to book your consultation.
A strong, healthy smile starts with the right care. Let’s take the next step together!
Disclaimer: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Sources
Modglin L. Dental Crowns: Everything You Need To Know [Internet]. Forbes Health. 2023 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.forbes.com/health/dental/what-are-dental-crowns/
Lindberg S. How Long Can You Expect a Dental Crown to Last? [Internet]. Healthline. 2021 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-a-crown-last
Watson S. Dental Crown: Types, Cost, and Procedure [Internet]. Verywell Health. 2024 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/getting-a-dental-crown-1059036
Colgate. Your Dental Crown Procedure: What To Expect [Internet]. Colgate®. 2023 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bridges-and-crowns/your-dental-crown-procedure-what-to-expect
