Dental Crowns from £29 per month
Purpose, Procedure & Care
Among one of the most common restorative procedures we perform, a dental crown is used to protect a damaged tooth.
But as a specific cost level is associated with a dental crown, many patients question if they need a crown or can get by with a filling.
Here at Aqua Dental, we always recommend what is best for your smile and oral health, whether you’ll need a dental crown, a filling, or even a dental implant.
So let us explain the purpose of a crown, so you might understand why you may need one.
What you need to know about crowns
Quick overview:
- Why are dental crowns used? When fillings cannot solve the problem a dental crown is used to protect the underlying tooth.
- Are they worth it? Long-term, dental crowns are a good option because they are durable and have a high success rate.
- How much does a crown cost? We cannot speak for other practices across London, but here at Aqua Dental in Harrow, our crowns cost £700.
- Are crowns on teeth permanent? They are not permanent solutions, however, they are long-term solutions. A crown will last anywhere from five to twenty years.
What is a dental crown?
Over time, teeth can become damaged for a variety of reasons, whether it be tooth decay, gum disease or injury.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that sits on top of a tooth to restore its shape, size and strength.
Sometimes, patients opt to have crowns for cosmetic reasons (not to be confused with veneers, which use thinner components).
However, here at Aqua Dental we mainly use porcelain, and white crowns to preserve a lack of tooth structure and to complete dental implant restorations.
Why you may need a crown over a filling
For many patients, a dental crown will be a necessary procedure that’s used to help restore and repair teeth, but you may need a crown for several reasons including:
- Protecting a weak tooth – keeping it from breaking, or keeping it together to prevent further cracking
- Restoring a broken, or severely worn down tooth
- Acting as a cover, where not much tooth remains
- Holding a dental bridge firmly in place
- Covering a dental implant
- Being a final restoration for implant-based treatments
- Covering a tooth that’s been treated with a root canal
Types of dental crowns
Permanent crowns can be made from various materials, including:
- Metals – used in crowns that include alloys, metal crowns can withstand biting and chewing forces well and offer the most extended durability in terms of wear and tear as they rarely chip or break. A good option for out of sight molars.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal – colour matched to your adjacent teeth, porcelain crowns look the most like natural teeth. However, this crown can sometimes leave a dark line on the gum—a good option for bridges, where metal is needed for strength.
- All-resin – less expensive than any other crown type, all-resin crowns are known to wear down over time and are more prone to fractures.
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain provides a more natural colour match and is more suitable for those with metal allergies. A good option for visible front teeth.
Crown process and procedure
We can fit a dental crown in a single appointment. However, you might need to visit us at least twice in other typical cases.
We will prepare the tooth that needs the crown during your first visit and take all the impressions we need to send to the lab.
That’s where a second appointment may be applicable as we wait to receive your custom crown. But don’t worry; in the meantime, we will fit you with a temporary crown.
- First appointment: Tooth preparation (shaping) and taking impressions.
- Second appointment: We will evaluate the fit for the crown before cementing it into place – this usually takes up to 30 minutes or so.
As the crowning process varies, we also have the necessary equipment to take care of and place dental crowns on the same day.
Tooth preparation
As a dental crown mimics the entire visible portion of your tooth, we need to shape the underlying tooth for the crown to fit correctly. Therefore, they are not recommended for veneer placements, as the underlying tooth structure is affected.
Preparing the tooth for a dental crown will involve removing very precise amounts of the tooth as well as any filling or tooth decay inside.
Once we have finished with your core, we will continue to shape the tooth to create a fine margin around the core of the tooth so your new restoration can fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last?
The lifespan of dental crowns largely depends on the type of crown you have and how well you take care of it. Generally, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, but some can last even longer with proper care and maintenance.
Permanent crowns, made from materials like metal, porcelain fused to metal, or ceramic, are known to be the most durable and long-lasting. They can withstand normal wear and tear from daily use and can last for many years if properly cared for. On the other hand, temporary crowns are designed to be used for short-term use only and are not intended for long-term wear.
Proper care and maintenance also play a crucial role in the longevity of dental crowns. Good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly not only help to keep your natural teeth healthy but also the crown itself. It’s important to avoid certain hard, sticky or chewy foods that could damage the crown or cause it to come loose. Regular dental check-ups are also important to ensure that your crown is still in good shape and functioning as it should.
With proper care, your dental crown can remain in good condition and help to maintain a healthy, natural-looking smile for many years.
How to take care of my dental crown?
Once you’ve received your dental crown, it’s important to take good care of it to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain fused to metal, and ceramics, and each one requires slightly different care. Here are some general tips to help take care of your dental crown:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Just like with your natural teeth, it’s important to brush your crown twice a day and floss at least once a day. This helps to remove any plaque buildup that can lead to decay around the crown.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: While your dental crown is strong, it’s important to avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or opening packages with your teeth. Sticky or chewy foods like caramel and taffy can also cause damage or dislodge the crown.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the health of your crown and make any necessary adjustments. Your dentist can also clean the crown to remove any plaque or tartar buildup.
- Consider a nightguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a nightguard can help protect your crown from damage.
- Watch for signs of trouble: If you experience sensitivity, pain, or swelling around your crown, it’s important to see your dentist. These can be signs of a problem with the tooth underneath the crown.
By following these tips and taking good care of your dental crown, you can help ensure it lasts for many years to come. Remember to speak with our dentist if you have any concerns or questions about caring for your crown or if you notice any changes in your oral health.