Restorative Dentistry
Dental Crowns
A crown covers the whole of a tooth above the gum. It is used when a tooth is too damaged or weakened for a filling to restore it predictably.
Treatment overview
The tooth is reshaped so a crown can fit over it, restoring the original outline and protecting the remaining structure from further fracture.
Crowns are also used to restore root-treated teeth, to cover an implant, and to support a bridge.
Material is chosen for the position of the tooth, the forces it carries and how visible it is.
Why patients consider dental crowns
- A tooth is heavily filled, cracked or broken.
- A tooth has had root canal treatment and needs protecting.
- An existing crown is worn, leaking or no longer fits well.
- A restoration is needed on an implant.
Consultation and suitability
Enough sound tooth structure must remain to support a crown; if not, other options are considered.
Decay and gum disease are treated before a definitive crown is made.
The bite is assessed, since a crown must fit into your existing pattern of contact.
A clinical examination is required before any treatment plan can be confirmed. Suitability depends on your individual oral health.
The treatment process
Assessment
Examination and, where needed, radiographs to check the tooth and its root.
Preparation
The tooth is shaped under local anaesthetic and an impression or digital scan is taken.
Temporary crown
A temporary crown protects the tooth while the definitive one is made.
Fitting
The crown is tried in, adjusted for fit, shade and bite, then cemented or bonded.
Review
Comfort, bite and gum response are checked.
Materials and techniques
- Zirconia
- A strong ceramic often used where durability matters, including posterior teeth and longer spans.
- Glass-ceramic
- Chosen at the front of the mouth for its light-handling properties.
- Porcelain fused to metal
- A long-established option combining a metal substructure with a ceramic outer layer.
Aftercare
- Clean around the crown margin daily, including between the teeth.
- Avoid biting very hard objects.
- Report any looseness, sensitivity or a change in bite.
- Attend routine reviews so the margins can be checked.
Limitations and risks
Every treatment has trade-offs. These are the ones worth understanding before you decide.
- Preparing a tooth for a crown is not reversible.
- Crowns can chip, and the underlying tooth can still develop decay at the margin.
- Some teeth become sensitive after preparation; occasionally a root canal treatment becomes necessary later.
- Longevity varies with material, bite, and how well the margin is kept clean.
Who would carry this out
Esra Namlı
Dentist
Umut Çağdaş Ateş
Dentist
Which clinician carries out your treatment is confirmed by the clinic. Names and titles are published exactly as supplied.
Frequently asked questions
This varies considerably between patients and depends on the material, the bite and daily cleaning. Your dentist can give a realistic expectation for your situation.
Shade and shape are selected to match neighbouring teeth. Matching a single front tooth is the most demanding situation and is discussed in advance.
Yes. Decay can develop where the crown meets the tooth, so daily cleaning of the margin is essential.
Related treatments
Medical disclaimer. Information on this website is provided for general informational purposes and does not replace a clinical examination or professional dental advice. Treatment suitability, duration and outcomes vary by patient.