Crowns

WHAT ARE CROWNS?

Crowns are tooth-shaped caps specially made by a dentist to fit over your front or back teeth

WHY HAVE TEETH CROWNED?

Front teeth are often crowned to repair a fracture following an accident. ACC will usually pay for the majority of the costs involved. Sometimes, front teeth that are heavily filed or are the wrong shape can be crowned to improve the appearance and create a nicer smile.
Back teeth that are heavily filled and/or root filled are prone to fracturing. A crown is often recommended to prevent further breakages. Your dentist can advise you on which teeth would be best protected with a crown to prevent such breakages.

WHAT ARE CROWNS MADE OF?

Porcelain (Procera). These produce the most natural appearance for front teeth where the underlying tooth is not too dark or discoloured.
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM). These can be used in front or back teeth and are indicated if the underlyingtooth is very discoloured or if there is a very hard bite.
Gold. Often recommended for crowns in the very back teeth where they are not seen. These are ideal where there is not enough room to make a porcelain crown. An advantage is that less tooth needs to be removed to make a gold crown. It is often chosen by dentists when a crown is needed in their own mouth.

HOW IS THE TREATMENT DONE?

The outer layer of the existing filling and tooth is shaped to reduce its size before a mould is taken. A temporary crown then covers the tooth while a permanent tooth is made in the dental laboratory. At a second visit the crown is checked and cemented in place.