Whether it’s biting down on your favourite snack, clenching your teeth at night, or taking a hit on the footy field, teeth can get damaged in all kinds of ways. If you’re dealing with a cracked, chipped, or weakened tooth, a dental crown could help save it – and restore your smile at the same time.
Crowns are often recommended after decay, injury, or a root canal, as they can protect and reinforce your tooth while also enhancing its appearance. With several types of crowns available and many questions surrounding cost and durability, it’s helpful to know what to expect before making a decision.
Choosing the Right Crown for Your Smile
Dental crowns can be made from a range of materials, each offering its own advantages. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are popular for their natural appearance and are often used on front teeth. Metal crowns, made from gold or alloys, are renowned for their strength and durability, making them an ideal choice for back molars.
There are also porcelain-fused-to-metal options that blend strength with aesthetics, and newer zirconia crowns that offer excellent durability with a tooth-coloured finish.
“The best crown for you depends on where it’s going in the mouth, how you use that tooth, and what kind of look you’re going for,” explains Dr Sally Farhandi, Dentist Brisbane CBD. “We take the time to walk patients through each option so they feel confident in their decision.”
One-Visit Convenience With CEREC Technology
Want to restore your smile in just one visit? You can at Excellence in Dentistry, which offers innovative CEREC technology. This allows our dentists to design, create, and fit your ceramic crown during a single appointment. That’s a massive time-saver for those with busy schedules. Using precise digital imaging and an on-site milling machine, we craft a tooth cover that matches your natural tooth colour, shape, and size.
Another particularly attractive benefit? This approach eliminates the need for those gooey impressions and temporary devices, so you can leave the clinic with your permanent restoration on the same day.
CEREC crown benefits include the following:
a) Single-visit procedure
b) No temporary crowns
c) Natural-looking ceramic material
d) Precise, custom fit using digital scans
e) Fast, convenient treatment experience
Why Consider Traditional Crowns
Traditional crowns have been around for years and remain a reliable choice for patients needing alternative materials or more complex adjustments. This method involves two appointments: one for preparation and impressions, and another to fit the final crown. A temporary crown keeps your smile functional and protected in the meantime. We carefully craft your crown to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth – matching both its shape and colour for a natural look.
Understanding the Costs Involved
The cost of a dental crown can vary based on a few factors, like the material used, how complex the procedure is, and whether you need extra work such as a build-up or root canal. Metal crowns tend to be more budget-friendly, while porcelain and zirconia options are usually pricier due to their natural look and the advanced techniques used to create them.
In many cases, private health insurance may cover part of the cost, especially if the treatment is considered medically necessary. Our team is happy to check your benefits and provide a detailed quote before starting any work.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years – and sometimes even longer – making them a great investment. Good oral hygiene, regular check-ups, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or biting hard objects can help extend the lifespan of your crown.
“Many of our patients are surprised by how low-maintenance crowns really are,” says Dr Farhandi. “Treat them like natural teeth and they’ll serve you well for years.”
Start With a Personalised Consultation
Wondering which crown is right for you? Our experienced team can guide you through your options and help you choose a solution that suits your smile, budget, and goals.
Book a consultation today with the experienced team at Excellence in Dentistry.