Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, ceramic or metal alloys. A combination of metal and ceramic is also possible to maximise the strength of the crown and successfully simulate the appearance of natural teeth.
At your initial appointment, we carry out a thorough examination, take x-rays and photographs and ensure you are a suitable candidate for crowns. Your dentist will talk you through the treatment, advise on material choices and listen to any questions or concerns you may have.
At your second appointment, we prepare your teeth. Using local anaesthetic, we trim your tooth to reduce the size, creating space for the crown to be fitted into place. We also take a mould of the prepared tooth, which is sent to a laboratory where skilled technicians will custom-make your crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is made and fitted to protect your tooth between appointments.
At your third appointment, we fit your custom crown. The temporary crown is removed and your tooth surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. We try your completed crown on your tooth, ensuring we are happy with the fit, harmony with the bite and appearance, before securing it into place with strong dental cement.
Crowns are made of inert materials that do not deteriorate over time. However, the underlying tooth is still prone to decay and gum disease so it is important to keep up with your cleaning routine at home.
To best care for your crown, avoid chewing excessively hard substances like ice. The most vulnerable part of the crown is the margin between the tooth and crown, so pay close attention to this area when flossing and brushing daily. Your dentist will also keep an eye on your crown at your regular check ups.
Crowns are a very effective way of covering decayed or damaged teeth. They do require some of the tooth enamel to be removed so the crown can be fitted correctly, but for many patients the advantages outweigh this.
No, whitening treatments do not work on restorations such as crowns. Your dentist may recommend whitening your teeth to your ideal shade before beginning your crown treatment, to ensure your crown is colour-matched correctly and won’t need to be replaced.
Crowns are not likely to last for the rest of your life. Most last up to 10 years before needing to be replaced or repaired due to natural wear and tear. Sometimes, crowns are replaced for cosmetic reasons, such as if you have chosen to have whitening treatment on your natural teeth and would like the crown to match your new shade.
Crowns may become stained over time, particularly if you consume a lot of tea, coffee or red wine, or are a smoker. However, the level of staining is less than in natural teeth. Whitening treatments will not affect your crown, so it may appear darker if you have had treatment to whiten the natural teeth surrounding it.
Aesthetique Dental Care 21 Wharf Street, The Calls Leeds West Yorkshire LS2 7EQ
We’re in the heart of Leeds - accessed by bus and train and have convenient on street parking.
Dental Design | Site last updated: December 2023