What is a dental crown procedure?

A dental crown procedure involves covering an existing tooth with a cap (crown). It can:

• improve the way your damaged or broken tooth looks
• make your tooth stronger
• restore the function of your tooth

Crowns can be made from many different materials, including porcelain, zirconia, gold alloy or a combination of porcelain and metal.

What are the benefits of a dental crown?

Crowns help protect weak or broken teeth and can help improve their appearance.

Your dentist or dental specialist (prosthodontist) might suggest a crown procedure if you have:

• a broken or cracked tooth
• a badly decayed tooth
• had root canal treatment
• cosmetic issues with your tooth, such as stains, chips or an unusual shape

A crown can last for many years if it is cared for properly.

If you have painful, cracked or badly decayed teeth, make an appointment to see your dentist.

What does a dental crown procedure involve?

Your dental crown procedure is likely to need 1 or 2 visits to the dentist or prosthodontist.

At the first visit, your dentist or prosthodontist will:

• shape your tooth so there's enough room for the crown
• make sure the edges are smooth and rounded
• take an impression or digital scan of your tooth to design your crown

Your dentist may use a local anaesthetic to minimise pain or discomfort during the procedure.

Some types of crowns can be made and fitted on the same day. For others, you may need to come back for a second visit to get the final crown.

When your permanent crown is ready, your dentist or prosthodontist will check how it fits in your mouth. They will make sure the crown matches your bite and tooth shape. Then they will fit the crown in place using dental cement or adhesive.

How can I prepare myself for a dental crown procedure?

Before your dental crown procedure, talk to your dentist or prosthodontist about what to expect. Here are some questions you might like to ask:

• How many appointments will I need?
• What material will my crown be made from?
• What will you do to ensure I'm comfortable and don't feel pain during the procedure?
• What are the costs involved?
• How long will the crown last?
• Can I drive after the procedure?

How soon will I recover?

You may experience discomfort after a dental procedure.

It's a good idea to ask your dentist or prosthodontist how soon you will recover. Here are some questions you might like to ask:

• Will I feel pain after the procedure?
• What pain-relief medicines can I take if I need them?
• Can I eat and drink normally after the procedure?
• When can I go back to school, work or other activities?

What complications can happen?

Possible complications include:

• the crown coming loose, breaking, chipping, cracking or falling off
• the tooth under the crown breaking
• tooth decay around or under the crown
• sore or swollen gums around the crown
• the crown not fitting properly, which can cause pain or trouble chewing

The likelihood of developing complications may depend on:

• how the tooth was prepared
• what material the crown is made from
• how the crown fits in your mouth
• how well you care for your teeth

Although the dental crown itself can't decay, the tooth underneath still can, so it's important to clean your teeth and keep your gums healthy.

Continue with regular visits to your dentist or prosthodontist for check-ups.

Are there alternatives to a dental crown procedure?

You could also ask your dentist or prosthodontist for more information about:

• dentures — removable false teeth
• a dental bridge — replaces a missing tooth and attaches to remaining teeth
• veneers — thin layers fixed onto the front surface of your tooth
• rebuilding your tooth structure using filling material

What will happen if I decide not to have the procedure or it is delayed?

If you delay getting the final crown or filling after a root canal, there is a higher chance of your tooth breaking or needing to be removed. Getting the right treatment on time helps protect the tooth and makes it last longer.

Ask your dentist or prosthodontist about the risks if you decide not to have the procedure or it is delayed.

Resources and support

Visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing for information about:

• public dental services in your state or territory
• Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)
• how to care for your teeth

Visit Teeth.org.au for oral health information to help you maintain a healthy mouth.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Languages other than English

• Teeth.org.au offers translated factsheets on oral health topics in many community languages.
• Queensland Health offers translated factsheets on what to expect after dental surgery.
• NSW Health offers information about healthy mouths for people from culturally and linguistically diverse and non-English speaking backgrounds.
• The Victorian Government offers translated oral health resources.

Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

• Teeth.org.au offers information about a healthy smile for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• NSW Health has information about keeping a healthy mouth for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.