Dental crowns (or caps) completely cover a heavily filled or broken tooth. They are made from gold or porcelain or a combination of the two and are used to prolong the life of your own tooth.
Why might I need crowns?
To improve your smile
To protect a tooth that has fractured
To prevent a tooth from breaking after a root canal filling
To protect a large filling
What materials can crowns be made from?
At Devonshire House in Cambridge, there is a wide variety of dental materials to choose from. Some crowns are made from gold whilst others are made from a gold alloy with a porcelain outer shell. All-ceramic crowns are also available and are becoming more popular. Our excellent laboratory allows perfect colour matching to your natural teeth.
How do you prepare and fit a dental crown?
Fitting a crown takes two visits with your dentist. At the first visit your dentist will prepare the tooth and will fit a provisional crown to protect your tooth until your next appointment. The laboratory at Devonshire House will make a crown specifically for you which will be fitted at your second visit unless you are suitable for the same day crown treatment option. Once you are happy with the crown and how it looks, it will be cemented firmly into place.
How long do crowns last?
This depends largely on how well you look after your teeth. Dental crowns require the same level of care and attention as your natural teeth and we would expect a high quality dental crown to last 10-15 years. Our team of expert dental hygienists can help you look after your new crown by advising on an effective oral hygiene programme.