If you have chipped, crooked, or fractured teeth, your dentist may suggest using dental crowns to restore them. A crown is a cap-shaped structure that rests over the entire visible surface of a tooth and is used for fixing various cosmetic and restorative tooth defects. 

If you search the internet for dental crowns, you might come across different types and uses of crowns, and you might get confused. If you are considering dental crowns for your restorative dental treatment, and you are not sure which type or material of crowns is best for you, this article will help you. In this blog, we explain everything you need to know about dental crowns, so that you can make an informed decision in consultation with your dentist. So, continue reading to learn more. 

What Is A Prefabricated Dental Crown?

A prefabricated crown is a full tooth coverage prosthesis that is used for short-term purposes. The prefabricated crowns are made of stainless steel, porcelain, or acrylic, and they come in different sizes. The prefabricated, or temporary crown protects the underlying tooth structure while the permanent crown or restoration is being fabricated in the dental laboratory. For example, your dentist may place a temporary crown over a newly-inserted dental implant while healing of the surgical site takes place. Once healing has occurred, the temporary crown will be replaced with a permanent one. 

What Is The Composition Of Dental Crowns?

Based on the type of material, dental crowns are of three main types; metal, metal fused to porcelain, and all-ceramic crowns. 

  • Metal Crowns – these crowns are made of metal alloys, and are used where high strength and durability is desired. Due to their unaesthetic metallic appearance, metal crowns are normally used to restore back teeth. 
  • Metal-ceramic Crowns – in these crowns, the structure or framework is made of metal alloys. However, the substructure is coated with tooth-coloured porcelain to improve aesthetics. These crowns usually require more tooth removal for their attachment than metal crowns. 
  • All-ceramic Crowns – these crowns are entirely made of tooth-coloured ceramics, and hence, offer the best aesthetics. These crowns are typically used for restoring teeth in the aesthetic zone. 

How Much Money Is A ‘Crown’ In The Uk?

The cost of dental crowns in the UK varies according to their type, as well as the location and expertise of the dental practice. Generally, a dental crown may cost you anywhere between £400 to £1200. A metal crown typically costs between £300 to £800, while an all-ceramic costs anywhere between £600 and  £1200. 

Is Zirconia Crown Material Good For A Teeth Crown?

Zirconia-based crowns offer excellent strength, durability and aesthetics. That is why they are among the top choices for restoring teeth in the aesthetic zone. However, despite their benefits, zirconia crowns also have certain drawbacks. The most prominent drawback of zirconia crowns is their hardness. When zirconia-based crowns are given to patients who have a deep bite or those who have a habit of excessively grinding their teeth, these crowns can cause wear of the opposing natural teeth. Otherwise, zirconia is an excellent material for tooth crowns. 

How Long Should A Zirconia Crown Last?

Zirconia-based crowns are extremely strong and durable. According to Healthline, zirconia crowns can easily last anywhere between 10 and 15 years – even longer – if they are looked after properly. So, if you are looking for an aesthetically pleasing and durable restorative option for your teeth, zirconia crowns are an excellent choice. 

Can I Get A Crown On My Front Teeth?

Yes, it is possible to get crowns on the front teeth. However, dentists usually prefer dental bonding, lumineers, or porcelain veneers unless the tooth defect is substantial for restoring the front teeth. Your dentist will suggest a suitable prosthesis for your front teeth after a thorough clinical and radiographic examination. 

What Is The Procedure Associated With Getting A Tooth Crown?

The procedure for getting a tooth crown is straightforward. During your first appointment, your dentist will remove a thin layer of the outer enamel from your teeth. This process is known as tooth preparation, and it is done to create space for bonding the crown to the tooth. After tooth preparation, your dentist will make an impression of your teeth and send it to the laboratory, where the crowns will be fabricated. At the next appointment, your dentist will try on your crowns on the prepared teeth without bonding. If everything goes well, they will bond the crown to the prepared tooth using adhesive.  

How Much Would A Gold Tooth Cost?

A few decades ago, people would pride themselves on having gold teeth; it was a sign of being rich. But today, more aesthetically pleasing options are available, so the demand for gold crowns has decreased. However, if you are still considering gold crowns for your teeth, it may cost you anywhere between £2000 to £2500 per tooth. 

How Do Crowns And Bridges Help In Restoring A Perfect Smile?

Dental bridges and crowns help strengthen damaged teeth and also restore their aesthetics. Dental crowns are made of tooth-coloured materials that blend with your teeth and become virtually indistinguishable from the natural ones. Besides, they can also be used to fix various cosmetic dental issues. Hence, if you have cosmetic teeth defects affecting your smile, you may consider porcelain veneers or crowns as a restorative option. 

Like all cosmetic dental procedures, the aesthetic outcome of dental crown treatment is highly dependent on the dentist’s skill. If you are residing in the New Cross area and you’re searching for a high-class cosmetic dentistry practice, Waldron Dental Clinic should be your first choice. We offer high-quality family dental services in a comfortable and relaxing environment. So, book a new patient appointment today and let us give you a smile that you genuinely deserve.