General information only. This article explains dental topics in general terms and isn’t a substitute for personal advice. Everyone’s oral health and dental needs are different, so please see a dentist for advice that applies to you.

A dental crown is a cap that covers the visible part of a tooth to restore its shape, strength and appearance. This article explains when crowns are used, the different materials, what the process involves, the benefits and risks, and how to look after a crown.

When a crown may be needed

A tooth with a large filling and little natural tooth left.
A cracked tooth, to hold it together and reduce the risk of it splitting.
A back tooth after root canal treatment, which can become more brittle.
A badly worn tooth, for example from grinding or acid erosion.
To cover a dental implant or support a bridge.
To improve the shape or colour of a tooth when other options are not suitable.

Types of crowns

All-ceramic (for example zirconia or lithium disilicate): tooth-coloured, metal-free and suitable for front and back teeth.
Porcelain fused to metal: a metal inner layer with porcelain outside. Strong, though a dark line may show at the gum over time.
Gold and other metal alloys: very durable and need less tooth removed, but are not tooth-coloured, so are usually used on back teeth.
Stainless steel: mainly pre-formed crowns for baby teeth.

The process

Assessment: the tooth is examined and X-rayed to check the root and nerve.
Preparation: under local anaesthetic, the tooth is shaped and any decay removed. A core build-up may be placed.
Impression or scan: a digital scan or mould is taken, and the shade is matched.
Temporary crown: worn while the crown is made, usually for one to two weeks.
Fitting: the bite and fit are checked and the crown is cemented or bonded in place.

Some practices can design and mill certain ceramic crowns in the clinic, which may allow one-visit treatment.

Benefits

A crown can protect a weakened tooth from breaking, restore comfortable chewing and improve the tooth’s appearance. It can help keep a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed.

Risks and possible problems

Sensitivity after preparation, usually temporary.
Irritation of the nerve, which occasionally leads to root canal treatment.
Chipping of porcelain, or the crown coming loose.
Decay at the edge of the crown if it is not cleaned well.
Gum recession exposing the crown margin.

Caring for a crown

Brush twice a day and clean between the teeth daily, paying attention to where the crown meets the gum.
Avoid chewing ice and very hard foods, and wear a night guard if you grind.
Have regular check-ups so the crown’s edges can be checked.

Common questions

How long do crowns last?

Many crowns last 10 years or more, but lifespan varies with the material, the tooth, grinding and oral hygiene.

Does getting a crown hurt?

Local anaesthetic is used for preparation, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Mild tenderness afterwards usually settles within a few days.