What Is a Dental Crown? Purpose, Procedure, and When You Might Need One
What Is a Dental Crown? Purpose, Procedure, and When You Might Need One
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength, function and appearance. Often recommended after root canal therapy or to protect a cracked tooth, dental crowns are a reliable, long-term solution for preserving your natural teeth.
Typical Price Range
- What a dental crown is and how it works
- When and why a crown may be needed
- The types of dental crowns available
- What the treatment process involves
- How long crowns typically last
- Expected costs
- Answers to frequently asked questions
If you are considering a dental crown, this guide will help you make an informed decision and understand what to expect at Miners Dental Clinic in Wonthaggi.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. Its primary purpose is to protect the tooth from further damage, restore its shape and function, and improve its appearance.
Common reasons to get a dental crown:
- To restore a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment
- To strengthen a cracked or worn-down tooth
- To support a large filling when little natural tooth is left
- To cover a dental implant
- To hold a dental bridge in place
- To improve the colour or shape of a tooth
Each crown is designed to match the size, shape and shade of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless result.
When Might You Need a Dental Crown?
Your dentist may recommend a crown if:
- A tooth has been weakened by decay or trauma
- You have had root canal treatment
- A large filling is failing or breaking
- A tooth is chipped, cracked or worn down
- You are replacing a missing tooth with an implant or bridge
- You want to enhance the appearance of a discoloured or irregularly shaped tooth
Signs that a crown may be needed:
- Ongoing tooth pain or sensitivity
- Cracks, chips or visible wear
- Repeated breakage of fillings
- Cosmetic concerns affecting your confidence
Types of Dental Crowns Available
Crowns can be made from different materials, each with specific benefits. Your dentist will recommend the most suitable type based on the location of the tooth, your bite and your aesthetic goals.
Crown Type | Description | Common Use |
Porcelain or Ceramic | Tooth-coloured, natural-looking | Front teeth |
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | Strong metal interior with natural-looking porcelain exterior | Front and back teeth |
Zirconia | Very strong and natural in appearance | Any tooth, including molars |
Gold or Metal Alloys | Extremely durable, less prone to wear | Back teeth or patients who grind their teeth |
Composite Resin | Less expensive, used for temporary crowns | Short-term restorations |
At Miners Dental Clinic, we offer a range of crown materials to meet your clinical needs and personal preferences.
Dental Crown Procedure: Step-by-Step
The dental crown procedure usually involves two visits unless your dentist offers same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology.
First Appointment:
- Your dentist examines the tooth and may take X-rays
- The tooth is shaped to make room for the crown
- Impressions are taken to create your custom crown
- A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth
Second Appointment (after about two weeks):
- The temporary crown is removed
- The fit and colour of the new crown are checked
- The crown is permanently cemented into place
Same-day crowns may be available using advanced digital scanning and in-house milling systems.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns typically last between 10 and 15 years. With good care, they can last even longer.
Factors that affect crown longevity:
- Material used
- Your oral hygiene habits
- Diet and lifestyle
- Whether you grind your teeth
- Regular dental check-ups
Tips to extend the life of your crown:
- Brush twice daily and floss regularly
- Avoid chewing hard foods such as ice and nuts
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and clean
Cost of Dental Crowns
The cost of a dental crown in a private dental clinic generally ranges from $1,400 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the material used and the complexity of the treatment.
What influences the cost:
- Type of crown (zirconia, porcelain, metal)
- Whether other treatments are needed
- The number of appointments required
- Technology used (traditional vs same-day crowns)
Private health insurance with extras may cover part of the cost. It is best to check with your fund to find out your individual benefit amount.
Miners Dental Clinic provides flexible payment options to help you access quality care when you need it.
Are Dental Crowns Worth It?
Yes. A dental crown is often the most effective way to save a compromised tooth and restore its strength and appearance. Crowns are more durable than fillings and are designed to withstand daily chewing forces for many years.
While crowns require a higher upfront cost, they often reduce the risk of needing more complex or costly dental treatments in the future.
Expert Care in Wonthaggi
At Miners Dental Clinic, we use high-quality materials and the latest dental technologies to provide long-lasting and natural-looking crowns. Our team has extensive experience in restorative dentistry and will ensure your crown fits comfortably and functions properly.
We welcome patients from Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cape Paterson and across the Bass Coast region, and we are committed to delivering care you can trust.
Quick Answers About Dental Crowns
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Q: What is a dental crown used for?
A: To restore a damaged tooth and protect it from further decay or breakage. -
Q: How long do crowns last?
A: Crowns typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care. -
Q: Do crowns look like natural teeth?
A: Yes. Crowns are colour-matched and shaped to blend in with your other teeth. -
Q: Does getting a crown hurt?
A: No. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic and is generally comfortable. -
Q: Can I eat normally with a crown?
A: Yes. Once the crown is cemented, you can eat most foods as normal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially for back teeth. A crown strengthens the tooth and prevents it from fracturing after root canal therapy.
Keep the crown safe and contact your dentist immediately. Do not attempt to re-cement it yourself.
Some clinics offer same-day crowns using digital scanning and in-house milling machines. Ask your dentist if this service is available.
Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid chewing hard objects, and attend regular dental check-ups.
Yes. If a crown becomes worn or damaged, your dentist can replace it with a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Yes, especially for back teeth. A crown strengthens the tooth and prevents it from fracturing after root canal therapy.
2. What should I do if my crown falls out?
Keep the crown safe and contact your dentist immediately. Do not attempt to re-cement it yourself.
3. Are same-day crowns available?
Some clinics offer same-day crowns using digital scanning and in-house milling machines. Ask your dentist if this service is available.
4. How should I care for my crown?
Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid chewing hard objects, and attend regular dental check-ups.
5. Can crowns be replaced?
Yes. If a crown becomes worn or damaged, your dentist can replace it with a new one.
In Need of a Checkup, or Maybe Something More Specialised?
Give our friendly team a call, we’re here to help.
In need of a checkup, or maybe something more specialised?
Give our friendly team a call, we’re here to help.