Is this right for me?
Crowns are protective covers that are fitted over an existing tooth that has been specially shaped to receive it. This can be appropriate for damaged, broken or worn teeth. Full ceramic crowns are strong, stain resistant and aesthetically nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth.

However, Crowns are not necessarily the first treatment of choice when looking to improve the aesthetics of your teeth.

This is because a significant portion of the original tooth needs to be removed in preparation for the Crown. Less invasive alternatives such as Veneers or Dental Bonding can be used with strong healthy teeth.

Crowns are different from Veneers which are thin pieces of porcelain fitted only to the front of the tooth, whereas Crowns cover the whole of the tooth. Therefore, cosmetic Crowns involve more invasive techniques that require the size of the underlying tooth to be reduced.

The use of Crowns will depend on a large number of factors that can only be assessed by our dentist when you come for a consultation. 
 
 

The Risks
The risks relating to the treatment itself are negligible. However, the process is irreversible and it is possible that after a number of years the Crown may need to be replaced.

As with many dental treatments the long term success of any Crown is dependant on the strength of the tooth itself, the way you treat your teeth and overall oral health.

What is involved?
The creation and fitting of a Crown is typically spread over two visits.

The first stage of the procedure involves shaping the tooth ready to receive the Crown and this is very often done under local anaesthetic.

Once the tooth preparation is complete an impression of the shaped tooth is taken and sent to the dental laboratory for the Crown to be created.

Whilst the Crown is being made, the prepared tooth will probably be protected with a temporary Crown.

After approximately a week the Crown created in the dental laboratory will be ready for fitting.

Following removal of the temporary Crown, our dentist will fit the permanent one by bonding it to the prepared tooth. This process will also involve checking your bite, the colour and making small adjustments.  
 

Preparing for your treatment
A full medical history will be needed before any treatment can start. This will require you to fill out a form prior to entering the treatment room.

Make sure that you do not have any important appointments directly after dental work that might require anaesthetic. Even if you have not had an anaesthetic changes in your mouth can feel strange and it is possible that a change might have a temporary effect on your speech.

Some treatments may require you to eat very carefully for a short period after your visit and this may be worth remembering this when planning your day.  
 

After Your Treatment
It is import to be careful that you do not accidentally bite your cheek, tongue or lip if the local anaesthetic has not worn off.

Even small changes to your teeth may initially feel strange or even unpleasant. Give your mouth and tongue a chance to get used to any new features.

If after 48 hours you are still uncertain about any aspect of your treatment please call the clinic.

How long will the results last?
Crowns can last for years if they are treated appropriately.

However, the working life of Crowns will ultimately be dependant on the nature of your bite, your oral hygiene, your eating habits and the general strength of your teeth.