Crowns
Crowns are an ideal way to rebuild teeth which have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. The crown fits right over the remaining part of the tooth, making it strong and giving it the shape and contour of a natural tooth. Crowns are sometimes also known as ‘caps’.
Why would I need a crown?
Back to topThere are a number of reasons. For instance:
- The tooth may have been weakened by having a very large filling.
- You may have discoloured fillings and would like to improve the appearance of the tooth.
- You may have had a root filling which will need a crown to protect it.
- You may have had an accident and damaged the tooth.
- It may help hold a bridge or denture firmly in place.
What are crowns made of?
Back to topCrowns are made of a variety of materials and new materials are being introduced all the time. Here are some of the options available at present:
- Porcelain bonded to precious metal – the most common crown, white in colour. Porcelain applied over base metal.
- All porcelain/ceramic – not quite as strong but look very natural and fantastic for front teeth.
- Porcelain bonded to Zironia – strong and metal free so highly aesthetic.
- Metal only – very strong and hard wearing, less tooth drilling needed but gold or silver in colour so used mainly at the back of the mouth.
