Getting a Dental Crown: What Happens, Step by Step

Getting a dental crown usually involves an assessment, preparing the tooth, taking a digital scan, and fitting the crown. With CAD/CAM technology, many ceramic crowns can be designed, milled and fitted in a single visit. Laboratory-made crowns usually take two appointments. Here is what to expect at each step.

Why You Might Need a Crown

A crown covers the whole visible part of a tooth to protect and strengthen it. Common reasons include:

• a large filling that is failing or leaves the tooth weak;
• a cracked or broken tooth;
• a tooth that has had root canal treatment, especially a back tooth;
• a badly worn tooth from grinding;
• covering a dental implant.

If the tooth is healthy and you mainly want to change its look, a veneer may be more conservative. See veneers vs crowns.

Step 1: Assessment

Your dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays and checks your bite. If there is decay or the nerve is affected, it may need treating first, such as with a filling, core build-up or root canal treatment. You receive a written quote before treatment starts.

Step 2: Preparing the Tooth

After local anaesthetic, your dentist removes any decay and old filling material, then shapes the tooth on all sides so the crown can fit over it. If a lot of tooth is missing, a core build-up may be placed first to support the crown.

Step 3: Digital Scan and Shade

A digital scan records the prepared tooth and your bite, usually without the goopy impression material many people remember. The shade is matched to your neighbouring teeth.

Step 4a: Single-Visit CAD/CAM Crown

For many ceramic crowns, your dentist designs the crown on screen from the scan, and a milling machine carves it from a ceramic block in the practice. The crown is then stained, glazed and fired, and fitted the same day. That means no temporary crown and no second appointment.

Step 4b: Laboratory-Made Crown

Some crowns are made in a laboratory, for example when a ceramist needs to hand-layer colour for a front tooth, or a different material such as zirconia is chosen. You wear a temporary crown for a short time, then return for the final crown to be fitted. See E.max vs zirconia crowns.

Step 5: Fitting the Crown

Your dentist checks the fit, contact with neighbouring teeth, and your bite. The crown is then bonded or cemented in place, and any excess is cleaned away. Your bite is checked again and adjusted if needed.

Aftercare

• The tooth may feel a little sensitive or tender for a few days.
• Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily; the edge of the crown can still decay.
• Avoid chewing ice or very hard objects.
• Wear a night guard if you grind.
• Keep up regular check-ups and cleans.

Call the practice if the crown feels high, loose or sharp, or if pain persists.

How Long Do Crowns Last?

With good care, crowns can last many years, although lifespan varies. Our CAD/CAM ceramic crowns come with a 5-year limited warranty; conditions apply, including regular check-ups and cleans.

Cost

At Sydney Dental Veneers, a CAD/CAM ceramic crown is $1,820 per tooth. Custom layering or staining adds $100. Root canal treatment or a core build-up, if needed, is quoted separately. Health fund benefits depend on your cover; we offer HICAPS claiming. See dental crown cost in Sydney, the dental crowns package and payment plans.

Book a Crown Assessment

Visit us at Suite 302, Level 3, 70 Pitt Street, Sydney CBD, near Wynyard and Martin Place. Call (02) 8090 1105 or book online. Learn more about dental crowns.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Frequently Asked Questions