Dental crowns are essential restorations in modern dentistry, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. Whether you have a decayed tooth, a damaged tooth, or need to restore a missing tooth with a dental implant, crowns play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health. But what does a crown look like on a tooth? How closely can it resemble natural teeth?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the types of dental crowns, the procedure, and how different crowns interact with the surrounding teeth, ensuring they provide a natural appearance while withstanding biting and chewing forces.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a customised cap that covers the entire visible portion of a treated tooth to restore its natural tooth structure, strength, and appearance. It is designed to match the natural enamel of your existing tooth, blending seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
Crowns are commonly used after root canal treatment, for a weak tooth that needs protection, or to improve the look of a discoloured tooth. They are also used to restore a dental implant, replacing a missing tooth, or to support a dental bridge for improved function and stability.
What Does a Crown Look Like on a Tooth?
A tooth crown covers the entire tooth surface, including the chewing surface, and extends to the gum line. The goal is to make it indistinguishable from your natural tooth, ensuring an aesthetic appearance that blends with the rest of your surrounding teeth.
Different Types of Dental Crowns and How They Look
Choosing the right dental crown can make a huge difference in both function and aesthetics. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is best for your needs? Below, we break down the different types of crowns, how they look, and where they work best in your mouth.
1. Porcelain Crowns – The Gold Standard for a Natural Look
If you want your tooth crown to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth structure, porcelain crowns are your best bet. These crowns are crafted from ceramic material, making them highly aesthetic and ideal for front teeth.
Appearance: Translucent and white, mimicking natural enamel
Best For: Front teeth, discoloured teeth, and root canal-treated teeth
Durability: Moderate, best for low-impact areas
2. Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns – Strength Meets Aesthetics
Do you need a balance between durability and a natural tooth look? Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns combines a metal alloy base for strength with a thin layer of opaque porcelain for an improved aesthetic appearance.
Appearance: White but may show a metal line at the gum line over time
Best For: Both front and back teeth, especially out-of-sight molars
Durability: Stronger than all-porcelain crowns, resistant to biting and chewing forces
3. Zirconia Crowns – The Ultimate Combination of Strength and Beauty
Want the natural appearance of porcelain crowns but the durability of metal crowns? Zirconia crowns offer both. Made from zirconia ceramic material, they are tough, long-lasting, and closely resemble natural teeth.
Appearance: White, blends well with natural tooth structure
Best For: Both front and back teeth
Durability: Extremely strong, highly resistant to chewing forces and further decay
4. Metal Crowns – The Powerhouse of Durability
If you don’t mind your tooth crown being visible, metal crowns are a fantastic option. Crafted from metal alloys, they offer unmatched strength, making them perfect for chewing surfaces of out-of-sight molars.
Appearance: Metallic (gold or silver) and highly visible
Best For: Back teeth, where strength is a priority
Durability: The strongest of all crown types, resistant to chips and cracks
5. Composite Resin Crowns – A Budget-Friendly Option
Need an affordable yet aesthetic option? Composite resin crowns (also called resin crowns) are an economical alternative to ceramic crowns. While they can be colour-matched to your existing tooth, they wear down faster than other types.
Appearance: Can be matched to natural tooth colour, but less durable
Best For: Temporary crowns or cost-conscious patients
Durability: Weaker than porcelain crowns, prone to further decay
6. Same-Day Crowns (CEREC) – Instant Fix, Instant Confidence
Thanks to computer-aided design (CAD) and dental laboratory technology, some dentists offer same-day crowns. These crowns are typically made from ceramic material and provide a quick yet durable solution.
Appearance: Matches natural enamel but may not be as refined as lab-made crowns
Best For: Patients needing an urgent crown
Durability: Strong but slightly less long-lasting than traditional crowns
Who Needs a Dental Crown? Signs You Might Need One
A dental crown is more than just a cosmetic fix; it plays a crucial role in protecting and restoring tooth structure. If your natural tooth is weakened, damaged, or missing, a tooth crown might be the best solution to restore function and aesthetics.
1. You Have a Weak or Cracked Tooth
Teeth with large fillings, fractures, or thin layers of natural enamel are prone to breaking under chewing forces. A dental crown reinforces the entire tooth surface, preventing further damage and the need for extraction.
2. You’ve Had a Root Canal Treatment
After a root canal, the tooth structure weakens and becomes more prone to damage. A crown protects the treated tooth, restoring strength and preventing fractures. Porcelain crowns or zirconia crowns are often used for durability and a natural appearance.
3. You Need to Cover a Severely Discoloured or Misshapen Tooth
A discoloured tooth that doesn’t respond to whitening or a tooth with an irregular shape can be improved with a ceramic crown or all-porcelain crown, restoring a bright, uniform smile.
4. You Have a Missing Tooth and Need a Dental Implant
A dental crown is fitted onto a dental implant to restore a missing tooth and ensure proper function and appearance. This option provides a long-term, natural-looking solution that blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
5. You’re Getting a Dental Bridge
If you need a dental bridge to replace missing teeth, tooth crowns are placed on the existing teeth next to the gap to support the bridge and restore function.
6. You Have Extensive Tooth Decay
When a decayed tooth cannot be restored with a simple filling, a crown is often the best option to preserve the remaining tooth structure and prevent extraction.
7. You Want to Improve the Strength and Appearance of Your Front Teeth
If your front teeth are chipped, worn down, or uneven, ceramic crowns or porcelain fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns can enhance both durability and aesthetics while maintaining a natural tooth look.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, a dental crown procedure might be the best way to restore your oral health and confidence. Consult a skilled dental professional to determine the right types of crowns for your needs.
The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a dental crown involves several steps, usually spread over two visits to an experienced health practitioner.
Step 1: Tooth Preparation
- The tooth enamel is reshaped to accommodate the tooth crown.
- A temporary dental crown is fitted to protect the treated tooth while the permanent one is being made.
Step 2: Dental Impressions and Crown Creation
- An impression of the existing tooth is taken and sent to a dental lab.
- The crown is customised to resemble the colour, size, and shape of the natural tooth structure.
Step 3: Placement of the Permanent Crown
- The temporary crown is removed.
- The permanent crown is cemented using dental cement, ensuring a strong bond with the existing tooth.
Caring for Your Crown to Maintain a Natural Appearance
Here’s how you can maintain your dental crown for years to come.
1. Prioritise Oral Hygiene – Your Crown Needs It Too!
Even though a dental crown is artificial, the tooth structure beneath it is still prone to further decay and gum recession. Keeping your natural enamel, gum line, and surrounding teeth clean is vital.
Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean the chewing surface and along the gum line.
Floss Daily: Pay special attention to the edges where the crown meets the gum, as plaque buildup here can lead to dental issues.
Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: This helps prevent bacteria from affecting the existing tooth under the crown.
2. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods – Protect Your Crown from Damage
Different types of crowns vary in strength, but even the most durable ones, like zirconia crowns or porcelain fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns can be damaged by excessive force.
Avoid:
- Chewing ice – Can cause fractures in porcelain crowns and ceramic crowns.
- Hard lollies and nuts – Can damage the entire visible portion of the crown.
- Sticky foods like caramel or toffee – May loosen a temporary crown.
- Biting on non-food items (like pens or fingernails) – Can weaken the chewing surface.
Instead, opt for:
- Softer foods that are gentle on your tooth structure.
- Balanced meals that promote strong natural enamel and gum health.
3. Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – A Hidden Threat
Grinding your teeth at night (bruxism) exerts excessive chewing forces on your dental crown, which can lead to fractures or premature wear.
Wear a Night Guard: If you tend to grind your teeth, a custom-fitted mouthguard from an experienced health practitioner can protect your tooth crown.
Manage Stress: Stress often leads to unconscious teeth grinding. Relaxation techniques like meditation may help.
4. Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups – Prevention is Key
Routine visits to your appropriately qualified health practitioner help ensure your dental crown stays in top shape. Your dentist will check for the following:
- Signs of wear or damage to the crown
- Decay beneath the tooth crown
- Gum health and gum recession
- Proper alignment with opposing teeth
Recommended: Check-ups every six months to prevent any complications.
5. Watch Out for Signs of Crown Damage or Failure
While permanent crowns are built to last, they can sometimes become loose or damaged. Be aware of these warning signs:
Tooth Sensitivity: If you feel sensitivity to hot or cold, your dental cement may have worn off, or the crown may not be sealing properly.
Pain While Biting: This could indicate an improper bite alignment or issues with the dental crown procedure.
Loosening or Wobbling: If your crown feels unstable, it may need re-cement.
Chips or Cracks: A damaged tooth crown needs prompt repair to prevent further dental issues.
If you experience any of these, visit your dentist immediately to prevent further decay or damage to your treated tooth.
Are There Risks Involved in Getting a Dental Crown?
A dental crown procedure is generally safe, but some risks can arise. While crowns restore function and improve the aesthetic appearance of a treated tooth, complications may develop if not properly cared for.
Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot and cold is common after receiving a dental crown, especially as the natural tooth structure adapts. This typically subsides over time, but if it continues, using desensitising toothpaste or having a minor adjustment by your dentist can help.
Crown Loosening
Over time, the dental cement securing the crown may deteriorate, leading to looseness or instability. Sticky or hard foods can also dislodge a tooth crown, making it important to avoid excessive chewing pressure on the chewing surface. If a crown loosens, your dentist may need to re-cement or replace it.
Gum Irritation or Recession
Poor oral hygiene or an ill-fitting crown can lead to gum inflammation or gum recession, exposing the edge of the tooth crown and making it more susceptible to further decay. Flossing and regular dental visits help prevent this issue.
Chipped or Cracked Crowns
While porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns, and composite resin crowns are strong, they can still chip or crack under excessive biting and chewing forces. Avoiding hard foods and wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth can prevent damage.
Allergic Reactions
Some people are allergic to the metal alloys used in metal crowns or PFM crowns. If you have known metal allergies, zirconia crowns or ceramic crowns may be a safer option.
Decay Under the Crown
Although a dental crown protects the existing tooth, decay can still develop beneath it if bacteria accumulate around the gum line. Maintaining good oral health and visiting your dentist regularly can prevent this.
Nerve Damage
If a crown is placed on a tooth with deep decay or significant damage, it may irritate the nerve, leading to pain. In some cases, a root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the nerve and save the treated tooth.
The Bottom Line: Is a Dental Crown Right for You?
If you’re considering getting a dental crown procedure, consult a professional to determine the best option for your tooth structure, aesthetic goals, and budget. A well-made dental crown not only enhances your oral health but also gives you the confidence to smile freely.
For expert advice and high-quality dental crowns, contact Available Dental Care at (02) 4062 8763 or (02) 4628 0573 to book a consultation today.
References:
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Oral hygiene. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16914-oral-hygiene
Colgate. (n.d.). Different types of dental crowns. Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bridges-and-crowns/different-types-of-dental-crowns
Healthline. (n.d.). What you need to know about CEREC dental crowns. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/what-you-need-to-know-about-cerec-dental-crowns
WebMD. (n.d.). What is a zirconia crown? Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/what-is-a-zirconia-crown
PubMed Central. (n.d.). Anibacterial Mouthwash: A review of their clinical effectiveness. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10690548/