Dental crowns are one of the most widely used treatments in modern dentistry. Sometimes referred to as a dental cap, a crown is designed to protect, strengthen, and restore the appearance of a tooth that is damaged or weakened. Whether you are dealing with a chipped tooth, a broken tooth, a worn-down tooth, or a severely decayed tooth, this treatment can be an excellent way to restore your smile and preserve your oral health.
In this guide, we will explain the different types of tooth crowns, the dental crown procedure, benefits of treatment, aftercare, and alternatives. From ceramic crowns to metal crowns and zirconia crowns, we will cover the details you need to know before visiting a dental clinic.
What is a dental crown?
Definition of a crown
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a prepared tooth. Unlike smaller fillings or composite bonding that repair only part of a tooth, a crown covers the entire visible portion. It is custom-made in a dental laboratory by a dental technician to ensure the crown matches the shape, size, and bite of your surrounding teeth and opposing teeth.
Crowns are considered definitive crowns because they are intended to provide long-term function. They protect teeth that have been weakened by decay, fracture, or extensive dental work, and they restore damaged teeth to their natural appearance.
Common reasons for needing a crown
A dentist may recommend crown dental treatment for many reasons:
- To strengthen a weak tooth after root canal treatment, where a large amount of tooth tissue has been removed.
- To restore a badly broken or chipped tooth that cannot be repaired with a filling.
- To cover a worn-down tooth caused by grinding or years of chewing forces.
- To improve appearance in the case of crooked teeth, discoloured teeth, or a damaged tooth, where teeth whitening or veneers are not appropriate.
- To protect a severely decayed tooth with not enough tooth structure left for a filling.
- To complete a dental implant by providing the tooth crown that sits on top of the implant fixture.
- To support a dental bridge that replaces a missing tooth by covering the supporting tooth on either side.
Without a crown, a treated tooth or damaged or weakened tooth may continue to deteriorate, which could adversely affect your oral health.
Types of dental crowns available
Porcelain crowns
Porcelain crowns are a popular choice for front teeth. Their colour and translucency resemble natural enamel, making them ideal when appearance is important.
Porcelain crowns can also be matched to your other teeth following teeth whitening to create a uniform look.
Metal crowns
Metal crowns are made from metal alloys such as gold or other durable materials. While they may not blend with natural tooth structure, they are highly resistant to wear and fracture.
Metal crowns are often used on back teeth that bear heavy chewing forces. Their strength makes them a practical choice for patients who prioritise durability over appearance.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the durability of metal with the cosmetic appeal of porcelain. A thin layer of porcelain is fused over the metal core to give the crown a tooth-like appearance.
These crowns are versatile, being suitable for both front teeth and back teeth. However, over time, the porcelain layer can wear, sometimes revealing a thin line of metal near the gum.
Zirconia and other modern options
Zirconia crowns are becoming more common in dental clinics. They offer excellent strength, often stronger than porcelain fused crowns, and they look very natural.
Zirconia crowns can also be produced in a dental clinic with same-day crown technology, where digital scans are used to design and mill the crown on-site. This eliminates the need for a temporary crown and a return visit.
Other options include ceramic crowns made entirely of ceramic, which provide good aesthetics, and hybrid designs that combine different materials for specific needs.
Benefits of dental crowns
Restoring tooth strength and function
One of the main advantages of a dental crown procedure is the ability to restore damaged teeth so they function like a natural tooth. A crown redistributes chewing forces evenly across the prepared tooth and opposing teeth, reducing the risk of fracture. For patients with a weak tooth or a tooth with a large filling, a crown provides protection and stability.
Improving appearance and alignment
Crowns play a major role in cosmetic dentistry. They can cover a chipped tooth, improve the alignment of crooked teeth, and mask severe discolouration that cannot be treated with teeth whitening. Ceramic crowns, porcelain crowns, and zirconia crowns are particularly valued for their lifelike appearance.
Preventing further damage
A crown acts as a shield around the remaining tooth structure. This prevents further wear, cracks, or breaks. Without this protection, a damaged tooth could deteriorate until extraction becomes the only option.
Long-lasting results
Definitive crowns fabricated in a dental lab provide long-term benefits. With proper care and good oral hygiene, crowns can last for many years, sometimes decades. This durability makes them one of the most reliable forms of dental restoration.
When is a crown recommended?
After root canal treatment
A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy is often fragile due to loss of natural tooth tissue. A crown fitted over the treated tooth provides the strength needed to restore function and protect teeth from further damage.
To protect a cracked or weakened tooth
A cracked, damaged, or weakened tooth is at risk of splitting further under chewing forces. A crown encases the tooth in a protective cap, preventing small cracks from spreading and restoring durability.
For cosmetic improvements
Crowns can restore your smile when teeth whitening or bonding are not suitable. For example, a front tooth that is badly broken or severely discoloured can be restored with a porcelain or ceramic crown to match surrounding teeth.
To support a dental bridge
Crowns are frequently used as anchor points for bridges. If you have a missing tooth, the supporting tooth on either side is reshaped through tooth preparation and fitted with a crown to hold the bridge securely in place.
The dental crown procedure: step by step
Initial assessment and preparation
The dental crown procedure starts with an assessment at the dentist’s office. The dentist will check whether there is enough tooth left to support a crown and whether the tooth is suitable for restoration. X-rays may be taken to examine the surrounding teeth and tooth tissue.
Tooth preparation involves reshaping the tooth by removing a thin layer of natural enamel. This creates space for the crown to sit securely without being bulky. The aim is to preserve as much remaining tooth structure as possible while ensuring the new crown fits comfortably.
Tooth reshaping and impression taking
Once the tooth has been prepared, impressions are taken. These may be traditional moulds or digital scans, depending on the dental clinic. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where a dental technician carefully fabricates the definitive crowns to precise specifications.
Temporary crown placement
Because the permanent crown usually takes a couple of weeks to be made, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. The temporary crown protects the tooth tissue and allows you to eat and speak normally, though care must be taken to avoid foods that could dislodge it.
Fitting the permanent crown
At the second visit, often around two appointments after the initial preparation, the dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the permanent crown.
Adjustments may be made to ensure proper bite, shape, and colour match with surrounding teeth. Once approved, the new crown is cemented in place, completing the dental restoration.
What to expect during treatment
Anaesthesia and comfort measures
During tooth preparation, local anaesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring the procedure is pain-free. Patients may feel vibration from the dental drill, but no discomfort.
Duration of each appointment
Most crowns require two appointments. The first appointment involves tooth preparation, impressions, and placement of a temporary crown. The second appointment, usually two weeks later, is for fitting the permanent crown.
With same-day crowns, both steps can be completed in one visit, avoiding the need for a temporary crown.
Use of digital scanning in modern practices
Many dental clinics now use digital scanning technology, which eliminates the need for messy impression materials. Digital scans are more comfortable for the patient and more precise, allowing the dental lab to create crowns that fit perfectly and avoid issues that could adversely affect oral health.
Aftercare and recovery
Immediate post-treatment care
After the appointment to have the crown fitted, patients should avoid chewing hard foods on the treated side until the cement has fully set. If a temporary crown is in place, extra caution is needed to prevent it from dislodging.
Managing sensitivity or discomfort
It is common for a prepared tooth to feel sensitive to hot and cold in the days following treatment. This usually improves as the tooth adjusts. Using desensitising toothpaste and avoiding extreme temperatures can help.
Eating and drinking considerations
While wearing a temporary crown, it is best to avoid sticky sweets, very hard foods, or chewing gum. Once the permanent crown is in place, you can eat normally, but habits such as biting fingernails or using teeth to open packaging should be avoided, as these can chip crowns or damage opposing teeth.
Caring for your crown at home
To ensure crowns last, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily, flossing around the crown margins, and using mouthwash will help protect the supporting tooth and surrounding teeth. Routine check-ups and hygiene visits at the dentist’s office also play a key role in maintaining long-term results.
Longevity and durability of crowns
Average lifespan of different materials
With proper care, porcelain crowns and ceramic crowns typically last 10 to 15 years. Zirconia crowns and metal crowns may last even longer due to their strength. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns also provide long durability, especially for back teeth.
Factors that affect crown durability
Crown longevity depends on several factors: the quality of the tooth preparation, the materials used, the skill of the dental technician, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. Chewing forces, especially grinding, can wear crowns faster.
Signs your crown may need replacing
If your crown becomes loose, feels uncomfortable, or develops visible cracks, it may need replacing. Gum recession around the crown can expose the margin, which could adversely affect appearance and oral health. Colour mismatch may also occur if you have had teeth whitening since the crown was first fitted.
Potential risks and complications
Tooth sensitivity
It is normal for a prepared tooth to be temporarily sensitive. This usually improves within a few days to weeks. Persistent sensitivity should be checked by your dentist, as it may indicate that the crown needs adjustment.
Risk of crown loosening or damage
In cases where there is not enough tooth left or the supporting tooth is badly broken, a crown may not bond securely. Biting on hard foods can also chip a crown, particularly if it is made of porcelain.
Allergic reactions to materials
Rarely, patients may be sensitive to certain metal alloys used in crowns. Your dentist will review your options, and materials like zirconia crowns or ceramic crowns may be recommended to avoid this risk.
Alternatives to dental crowns
Dental veneers
Veneers involve bonding a thin layer of porcelain to the front of the tooth rather than covering the entire structure. They are suitable for cosmetic improvements on front teeth where enough tooth remains intact.
Inlays and onlays
Inlays and onlays are partial restorations fabricated in a dental lab. They are less invasive than crowns and preserve more natural enamel, but they may not provide enough strength for severely decayed or damaged teeth.
Composite bonding
Composite bonding uses a tooth-coloured resin applied directly in the dentist’s office. It can repair a chipped tooth or restore damaged teeth that are not badly broken. While affordable, bonding is not as strong or durable as a crown and may need more frequent replacement.
Paying for dental crowns
Self-pay
Paying for dental crowns directly is a common approach for patients who prefer to manage the full cost upfront. Self-pay allows you to book treatment immediately without waiting for finance approval or insurance authorisation.
By choosing to self-pay, you can take advantage of flexible scheduling and potentially access same-day crowns or two-appointment treatments according to your convenience.
This approach can be ideal if you wish to avoid any additional charges from loans or payment plans while ensuring that a damaged or weakened tooth is treated promptly.
Insurance
Dental insurance can help offset the cost of dental crowns, especially if treatment is medically necessary, such as for a severely decayed or badly broken tooth.
Policies vary widely, but many plans cover a percentage of the treatment cost, including procedures like root canal treatment followed by a crown or replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant supported by a crown.
It is important to check your policy for limits on annual coverage, waiting periods, and whether specific types of crowns are included. Using insurance can make restoring a damaged tooth more affordable, while still allowing you to prioritise proper care and maintain good oral hygiene during recovery.
In-house finance
Many dental clinics in the UK provide in-house finance options to make dental crowns more affordable.
These plans allow you to spread the cost of treatment across monthly instalments, usually without interest for a fixed period. Arrangements are made directly at the dentist’s office and are tailored to your budget and treatment plan.
For patients who would prefer not to pay the full amount upfront, in-house finance can make the cost of a new crown more manageable while ensuring you still receive timely treatment.
Medicred: finance for dental crowns, and more
At Medicred, we specialise in providing flexible dental finance options for patients across the UK. Our dental loans are designed to make treatments such as porcelain crowns, zirconia crowns, or even a full dental restoration affordable through clear and convenient monthly repayments.
You can apply online in just a few minutes and receive a decision quickly. There are no hidden charges, and you only start making repayments once your treatment has begun. Many applications are approved within 24 hours, and often much faster. Once approved, you can begin your treatment without delay.
We believe that finances should not prevent anyone from protecting a treated tooth or restoring a broken tooth with a dental crown. Our aim is to give you the flexibility to access the dental care you need while spreading the cost in a way that suits your lifestyle.
FAQs
Is getting a dental crown painful?
Getting a dental crown is usually not painful. Before the procedure, your dentist will use a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. This means you should not feel discomfort while the crown is being prepared or fitted. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or soreness after the anaesthetic wears off, but this is normal and usually goes away within a few days.
Pain can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers if needed. Your dentist will also give advice on how to care for your tooth and crown after the procedure to keep you comfortable.
Why would I need a crown?
You might need a dental crown if a tooth is damaged, weak, or decayed. Crowns are used to protect a tooth after a large filling, root canal, or fracture. They can also restore a worn-down or broken tooth and improve the appearance of a tooth that is discoloured or misshapen.
Crowns help strengthen the tooth, making it easier to chew and bite without causing further damage. Your dentist will assess your tooth and advise if a crown is the best option to protect it, restore its function, and improve your overall oral health.
How much does a dental crown cost?
The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on the material used, the complexity of the treatment, and the dental practice. Crowns made from porcelain or ceramic are usually more expensive than metal crowns, with prices averaging between £600 and £1200 per tooth for porcelain. The total cost may also include preparation of the tooth, any necessary X-rays, and follow-up visits.
Some dental insurance plans may cover part of the cost, but this varies. Your dentist will provide a full breakdown of the price before starting treatment. It is important to discuss costs in advance so you can plan and make informed decisions about your dental care.
Can a tooth still decay under a crown?
Yes, a tooth can still decay under a dental crown if good oral hygiene is not maintained. The crown itself cannot decay, but the natural tooth beneath it is still at risk. Decay often begins at the edge where the crown meets the gum, especially if plaque is allowed to build up.
Brushing twice a day, flossing carefully around the crown, and attending regular dental check-ups will help prevent problems. If decay develops under a crown, it may need repair or replacement. Keeping up with daily dental care is the best way to protect your crowned tooth.
What if my crown becomes loose or falls off?
If your dental crown becomes loose or falls off, do not panic. Keep the crown safe and contact your dentist as soon as possible for advice. Do not try to glue it back yourself, as this could damage your tooth.
In some cases, the crown can be cleaned and re-cemented, but if it is damaged, a new one may be needed. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the crown is fixed. Good oral care and regular dental check-ups can help reduce the chances of a crown becoming loose in the future.
How many appointments will I need to get a crown?
Most patients need two appointments to get a dental crown. At the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth, takes impressions, and fits a temporary crown to protect it. The impressions are sent to a dental lab, where the permanent crown is made. At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent one is fitted and cemented into place.
Some modern dental practices can offer same-day crowns using digital technology, but this is not always available. Your dentist will explain the process and let you know how many appointments you will need.
Will people notice crowns when I smile?
Modern dental crowns are made to look and feel very similar to natural teeth, so most people will not notice them when you smile. They are shaped to match your other teeth and fit comfortably in your mouth, making them blend in well. This makes crowns a good choice for restoring both front and back teeth.
If you are worried about how your crown will look, speak with your dentist, who can explain the different types available. With the right crown, you can smile, talk, and eat with confidence without others noticing any difference.
Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
Yes, once your dental crown is fully fitted, you can usually eat normally. Crowns are strong and designed to restore the function of your tooth, so you can bite and chew as you would with a natural tooth. However, it is best to avoid chewing very hard foods, ice, or sticky sweets, as these could damage or loosen the crown over time.
After your crown is first fitted, your dentist may advise you to avoid very hard or chewy foods for a short time. With good care, crowns allow you to enjoy a normal, comfortable diet.
How do dentists make sure a crown will match the colour of my other teeth?
When making a dental crown, dentists use a shade guide or digital tools to choose the best match for your natural teeth. This helps ensure the crown blends in well with your smile. The chosen shade is sent to a dental laboratory, where the crown is carefully made to look as natural as possible.
In some cases, the dentist may take photos to guide the technician. Before the crown is permanently fitted, the dentist will check the appearance and make adjustments if needed, so the crown looks natural alongside your other teeth.
Will I need other dental work before I can get a crown?
In some cases, yes. Before placing a crown, the dentist needs to make sure the tooth and the surrounding area are healthy. If the tooth is badly decayed or damaged, a filling or root canal treatment may be needed first.
Sometimes the dentist may need to build up the tooth with filling material so the crown has a strong base to sit on. If there are signs of gum disease, this may also need treatment before the crown is fitted. Your dentist will check your mouth and explain if any extra work is required.
Can I get financing to pay for dental crowns?
Yes, many dental practices offer financing or payment plans to help spread the cost of dental crowns. This allows you to pay in smaller monthly amounts instead of all at once, making treatment more manageable. Some plans may be interest-free for a set period, while others may include interest over longer terms.
If your dental clinic does not provide in-house finance, you may be able to apply directly to an independent finance provider. It is best to ask your dentist or reception team about payment options before treatment, so you can choose the solution that fits your budget.