What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a tooth, restoring its shape, strength and appearance. It is used when a tooth is too damaged for a filling to hold, for example after a large cavity, a crack, or a root canal.
Crowns are made in porcelain or ceramic and shaded to match your surrounding teeth, so they blend in as well as protect.
A crown may be recommended if
- A tooth has a large filling that is breaking down.
- A tooth is cracked, worn or weakened.
- You have had root canal treatment and the tooth needs protecting.
- A tooth is misshapen or badly discoloured and a filling cannot fix it.
What to expect, step by step
Examination
We examine the tooth and take an X-ray to confirm a crown is the right treatment.
Preparing the tooth
Under local anaesthetic the tooth is shaped to receive the crown, and an impression or scan is taken.
Temporary crown
A temporary crown protects the tooth while your permanent one is made.
Fitting
The final crown is checked for fit, shade and bite, then cemented in place.
Crown, filling or veneer?
Filling
Best when enough healthy tooth remains to hold it.
Crown
Covers and protects the whole tooth when it is heavily restored or weakened.
Veneer
Covers only the front of a healthy tooth, for cosmetic reasons.
Appointments are at KBM Dental in Rathfarnham, Dublin 14. Patients also visit from Milltown, Clonskeagh, Rathgar and the wider South Dublin area. Treatment starts with a consultation, so the plan and the cost are clear before you decide.
Enquire about Crowns