Crowns are perfect technique to reconstruct teeth which have been broken, or have been weakened by decay. The crown fits right over the remaining part of the tooth, making it tough and giving it the form and shape of a natural tooth.  Crowns are sometimes also known as caps.

What are crowns made of?

Crowns are made of a variety of materials and.  Here are some of the choices available at present:

Porcelain bonded to precious metal: This is what most crowns are made from.  A precious metal base is made and layers of porcelain are then applied over it.

Porcelain: These crowns are not as strong as bonded crowns but they can look very natural and are most often used for front teeth.

How long does the treatment take?

You will need to have at least two visits: the first for the preparation, impression, shade taking and fitting the temporary crown, and the second to fit the permanent crown.

Will the crown be noticeable?

The crown will be made to match your other teeth exactly.  The shade of the neighbouring teeth will be recorded, to make sure that the colour looks natural and matches the surrounding teeth. 

A temporary crown, usually made in plastic, will be fitted at the end of the
first appointment to last until the permanent one is ready.  These temporary crowns may be more noticeable, but they are only in place for about two weeks.

Does it hurt to have a tooth prepared for a crown?

No.  A local anaesthetic is used and the preparation should feel no different from a filling.  If the tooth does not have a nerve, and a post crown is being prepared, then local anaesthetic may not be needed.