Dental Crowns

Over time our teeth are subject to extensive wear and tear. Broken fillings, discoloured teeth, extensive decay and cracked teeth are among some of the issues that can lead to large scale problems if left un-treated. If the surface of the tooth is severely damaged, but the root system is still in-tact, a crown may be the best solution to save the tooth.

Crowns can be applied to protect weak and cracked teeth and extensively restored teeth from breaking. Not only does a crown restore the structure of damaged and decayed teeth, it also cosmetically enhances the appearance of the tooth, by creating a life-like tooth of natural colour, form and function.

Crowns are also used purely for aesthetic purposes. A Crown can transform the shape and colour of a tooth, or teeth to establish a more attractive, or normal smile. Today, we offer both porcelain and gold materials for your crowns, taking into consideration the area where the crown is to be placed, function and aesthetic requirements.

The procedure for a crown to be placed on a tooth will require two appointments two weeks apart. On the first visit your Dentist will remove any decay from your tooth and ensure the foundation is strong. The tooth will then be shaped and an impression (mould) will be taken. The impression will be sent to our laboratory were they will create a crown to your precise fit. A temporary crown is constructed and placed over the tooth so that you can eat properly and the tooth looks normal.

At the second visit the temporary crown is removed and the final crown is tried in and checked for its fit and how it looks and feels to you the patient. Minor adjustments are made and once the patient has accepted the feel and the look of the crown it is cemented into place.

Dental crowns have lifetime of approximately 10 to 20 years if the supporting teeth are well maintained and stay healthy.