Dental Crowns
Protect and restore damaged teeth with custom-made dental crowns that look and feel natural
What Are Dental Crowns?
Think of a crown as a protective cap or helmet for your tooth. It covers the entire visible part of a weak or damaged tooth to make it stronger and improve how it looks.
It's like giving your tooth a new outer layer that's custom-made just for you - designed to match your natural teeth in colour, shape, and size while providing strength and protection.
Types of Dental Crowns
E-max (Lithium Disilicate) Crowns
E-max crowns are widely considered the top choice for front teeth and visible areas. Made from lithium disilicate glass-ceramic, they offer exceptional translucency and a lifelike appearance that closely mimics natural enamel.
- • Highly translucent and natural-looking
- • Excellent for front teeth and smile zones
- • Strong enough for most single-tooth restorations
- • Can be bonded for a conservative preparation
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is the strongest all-ceramic material available, making it ideal for back teeth and bridges where extra durability is needed. Modern multi-layered zirconia also provides good aesthetics, so it is increasingly used throughout the mouth.
- • Strongest ceramic material available
- • Ideal for back teeth and bridges
- • Metal-free and biocompatible
- • Multi-layered options offer improved aesthetics
All-Ceramic (Traditional Porcelain) Crowns
Traditional porcelain crowns offer a natural appearance and remain a reliable option, though they are gradually being replaced by E-max and zirconia in many practices. Some ceramics can be milled chairside for same-day fitting.
- • Natural-looking option
- • Good for front teeth
- • No metal content
- • Can be milled chairside
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
These crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, offering a good balance of durability and appearance.
- • Strong metal foundation
- • Natural-looking porcelain exterior
- • Cost-effective option
- • May show metal at gum line
Metal Crowns
These extremely durable crowns are ideal for back teeth where strength is more important than appearance. Metals can be precious (like gold) or non-precious alloys.
- • Extremely strong and durable
- • Minimal tooth preparation needed
- • Long-lasting
- • Available in precious or non-precious metals
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are recommended in several situations where a tooth needs protection or restoration:
Protection & Strength
- • After root canal treatment
- • Large fillings that weaken the tooth
- • Cracked or fractured teeth
- • Severely worn down teeth
Aesthetic Improvement
- • Severely discoloured teeth
- • Misshapen teeth
- • Teeth that don't respond to whitening
- • Cosmetic smile makeovers
What Happens During Crown Treatment?
First Visit: Preparation
Your dentist will numb the area and prepare your tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to receive the crown. Digital scans or impressions are taken and a temporary crown is placed.
Laboratory Work
Your digital scan or impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians create your custom crown to match your natural teeth perfectly.
Second Visit: Fitting
Your temporary crown is removed and your new permanent crown is fitted. Your dentist will check the fit, appearance, and bite before permanently cementing it in place.
Recovery & Aftercare
After getting a crown, you can usually return to normal activities immediately. Here's what to expect and how to care for your new crown:
Immediate Aftercare
- • Wait for numbness to wear off before eating
- • Avoid very hard or sticky foods initially
- • Resume normal brushing and flossing
- • Your crown should feel natural
Long-term Care
- • Maintain excellent oral hygiene
- • Regular dental check-ups
- • Avoid using teeth as tools
- • Consider a night guard if you grind teeth
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The cost of dental crowns varies depending on the material used and the complexity of the case. Here's a general guide to UK prices:
NHS Treatment
- • Band 3 treatment: £306.80
- • Covers necessary crown work
- • Material choice may be limited
- • Available at NHS practices
Private Treatment
- • All crown types: £600-£1,400
- • Material choice available
- • Same-day options possible
- • Payment plans often available
Note: Prices vary by location and practice. Many practices offer payment plans to help spread the cost. Contact your local practice for accurate pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last 10-15 years with proper care, though some can last much longer. The lifespan depends on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and how well you care for them.
Are dental crowns painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel pain during the treatment. Any discomfort afterwards is usually mild and temporary. Most patients report feeling only pressure.
Can I eat normally with a crown?
Yes, once your crown is properly fitted and the numbness wears off, you can eat normally. Crowns are designed to function just like natural teeth, so you can enjoy all your favourite foods.
What if my crown falls off?
If your crown falls off, contact your dentist immediately. Don't try to fix it yourself. Your dentist will need to clean the area and re-cement or replace the crown. Keep the crown safe.
How do I care for my crown?
Care for your crown just like your natural teeth - brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for check-ups. A crown requires more maintenance than a natural tooth, so it's important to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Avoid using your teeth as tools and consider a night guard if you grind.
Related Articles
- Dental Inlays and Onlays: Costs, Types and What to ExpectWhen a filling is not enough but a crown is too much, an inlay or onlay may be the ideal middle ground.
- What to Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Off
- Cracked Tooth Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Find Dental Crowns Near You
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Find a dentistWritten by: Dr Tristan Tinn, Founder and Clinical Director of HelpDental
Last updated: September 25, 2025