Your Smile Dental Practice

    Dental Crowns.

    A considered way to restore a weakened tooth, with time to understand the options and decide what suits you.

    Book Now01992 44 55 99
    Illustrative image of a dental crown being held beside a model

    A crown is a tooth-shaped cover that can restore a tooth that has been weakened or damaged—for example by decay, a large filling, a break or wear. A crown may also be considered for a root-treated tooth. We’ll examine the tooth, explain what we find and discuss suitable materials and alternatives with you.

    A good place to start

    A clear plan, shaped around your tooth

    1. 01

      Assess the tooth

      We check the tooth and surrounding bite, then talk through whether a crown is appropriate.

    2. 02

      Prepare and record

      If you choose to proceed, the tooth is prepared and an impression is taken so the crown can be made.

    3. 03

      Fit and adjust

      At a later visit, we fit the crown and check its comfort and your bite.

    A little more clarity

    Your questions, answered.

    Clinically reviewed

    A crown covers the visible part of a tooth to help restore its shape and function. It may be recommended for a tooth weakened by decay, a large filling, a fracture or root canal treatment.

    Materials can include ceramic, metal or a combination. The choice depends on the tooth, your bite and appearance preferences; we’ll explain the suitable options and costs upfront.

    Treatment commonly involves a preparation and impression appointment, followed by a fitting visit once the crown has been made. Your dentist will explain the appointments and whether a temporary crown is needed.

    Yes. A crown does not prevent decay around the tooth or gum disease. Careful cleaning around the gumline and regular reviews remain important.

    It depends on the underlying tooth, your bite and oral care. We’ll review the crown at check-ups and explain if it needs attention rather than giving a fixed lifespan for every patient.

    Tooth-coloured crowns are shade-matched to your neighbouring teeth to help them blend naturally with your smile. We’ll discuss the appearance and suitable materials with you before treatment.

    Keep it safe and contact the practice promptly for advice and refitting. The exposed tooth may become sensitive or move if left uncovered. Ask your dentist before using temporary dental cement, and never use household glue.

    It may feel slightly unusual for a few days as you get used to it. If your bite feels high or uneven, or discomfort does not settle, contact the practice so we can check the fit.

    Mild sensitivity to hot and cold can occur after fitting and usually settles. Contact your dentist if it persists, gets worse or you notice throbbing pain.

    No. Crowns don't respond to whitening. If you're planning whitening, discuss it with your dentist before your crown is made so its shade can be matched to your brighter teeth.

    Not always. Root canal treatment may be needed if the tooth's pulp, which contains the nerve, is infected or badly damaged. Your dentist will assess this before planning a crown. Teeth that have had root canal treatment often need a crown afterwards for protection.

    Keep the crown if you can and contact the practice. Small chips can sometimes be polished or repaired; a loose crown can often be recemented if the tooth underneath is healthy. Your dentist will assess whether it can be refitted or needs replacing.

    Independent patient information

    Advice from the Oral Health Foundation

    The Oral Health Foundation is an oral health charity. These guides can help you understand your options and prepare questions for your dental team. General information complements, rather than replaces, advice tailored to your mouth.

    • The downsides of dental tourism

      Questions to consider before treatment abroad, including follow-up care, adjustments and what happens if complications arise.

    Links open on the Oral Health Foundation website.

    Start with a conversation.

    We’ll listen, explain what may be suitable for you and give you room to decide.

    Book Now