If you have a tooth that is infected or damaged, there is a risk of further damage and decay and a crown can help to restore and strengthen a weakened tooth.

Why would I need a crown?

Crowns are commonly used as a means of making a tooth stronger and protecting it from damage caused by injury or disease. You may be advised to have a crown if your tooth is infected, you have broken your tooth or you have had root canal treatment. Crowns are also frequently placed after dental implant treatment.

What are the benefits of dental crowns?

Dental crowns can effectively help to save a tooth that has become weakened as a result of an injury,  accident or decay. Without a crown, the tooth may continue to get weaker and eventually need to be removed.

Crowns can also have aesthetic benefits for your smile.

What are crowns made from and what does treatment involve?

Crowns can be made from many different materials, including precious metals and ceramics, such as porcelain. It is also possible to have a crown made from a combination of metal and ceramic. Ceramic crowns are very popular because they are more aesthetically pleasing than metal crowns and match the natural tooth colour.

Treatment usually involves two appointments, one or two weeks apart. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing all the damaged tissue and cleaning your tooth thoroughly. An impression will then be created using dental putty.

When your new crown is ready, your dentist in central London will give your tooth another clean and then fix the crown in place over the top of your natural tooth. The crown is secured using strong dental adhesive and once in place, it should last for several years provided that you look after it well.