If you’re looking for top-quality dental crowns that match your real teeth, we can help. We’re committed to providing you with dental care in a modern, comfortable setting and focus on providing tailored solutions to help maintain and improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile.
Dental crowns, also known as tooth caps or dental onlays, are custom-made tooth-shaped restorations that cover the entire visible portion of a damaged or weakened tooth. Whether you have chipped, cracked, or discoloured teeth, a crown may be the answer. Crowns are also recommended for patients who are conscious of unsightly stains on their teeth or who grind their teeth and have damaged the enamel of the tooth. Other patients may require restorative treatment after a root canal or may have damaged teeth due to dental trauma. In all these cases, dental crowns are an excellent solution. Not only do they restore your teeth’s appearance and functionality, but they also provide added strength and protection against future damage.
At Putney Hill Dental, we understand that each patient is unique, which is why our skilled dentists tailor each dental crown to your specific needs. Our commitment to providing exceptional cosmetic dentistry makes us stand out as a trusted dental clinic in Putney.
Our highly qualified dental professionals have extensive experience in restorative dentistry, ensuring that you are in safe hands. They stay abreast of the latest advancements in dental techniques and technologies, guaranteeing that you receive the highest standard of care.
Equipped with cutting-edge dental equipment and materials, we craft dental crowns to the highest standards. Our digital imaging technology ensures precise measurements and accurate customisation of your crowns for a comfortable fit and optimal functionality.
We strive to make your visit stress-free with our modern and welcoming dental practice. Our friendly staff ensures a warm and comforting environment, putting you at ease during your dental crown procedure. We offer flexible appointment scheduling to accommodate your busy lifestyle and minimise wait times. You can easily contact us to make an enquiry or book an appointment.
Beyond dental crowns, we provide a wide range of dental services, from routine check-ups to dental implants, making us your one-stop destination for complete dental treatment in Putney. Our holistic approach to oral health ensures that we address all aspects of your dental needs, enhancing your overall well-being.
We believe that high-quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. Our competitive pricing and transparent fee structure ensure you can get the dental crown treatment you need without breaking the bank. We also offer various payment options to suit your budget, making dental crowns an affordable investment in your oral health and confidence.
At Putney Hill Dental, we follow a meticulous process to ensure that your dental crown treatment is successful and exceeds your expectations:
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, during which our experienced dentists carefully examine your dental health. They discuss your treatment options, address any concerns you may have, and create a personalised treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals.
Once you have decided to proceed with a dental crown, at your next appointment your dentist will prepare the affected tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to accommodate the crown. This step ensures that your crown fits securely and provides a natural bite alignment. We are committed to providing minimally invasive procedures that protect the tooth structure.
To create a custom dental crown that fits seamlessly with your natural teeth, we take an impression of your prepared tooth. The impression serves as a precise mold, guiding our skilled dental technicians in crafting a crown that perfectly matches the size, shape, and colour of your surrounding teeth. Our dental laboratory utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to create natural-looking crowns.
While your permanent crown is being crafted, we will fit you with a temporary crown to protect your tooth and maintain its function. The temporary crown provides a temporary solution until your final crown is ready for placement.
Once your dental crown is ready, we will invite you back to our practice for the final fitting. Your dentist will ensure that the crown fits correctly and make any necessary adjustments to guarantee a comfortable and secure fit. The crown will be checked for proper alignment and functionality, ensuring that your bite is natural and comfortable. Our focus on aesthetically pleasing results ensures you leave our dental clinic with a beautiful smile.
After your dental crown has been placed, our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of your new restoration. We will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make sure you are fully satisfied with the results. Your dental visits are essential to maintaining the health and longevity of your crowns.
| Monday – Friday | 9.00 – 18.00 |
| Saturday | 9.00 – 13.00 |
| Sunday | Closed |
Dental crowns are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics that are used to cover or "cap" a damaged tooth. They are used for restoring a tooth's shape, size, strength, and to improve its overall appearance. Dental crowns encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.
Dental crowns serve various purposes, from functional restoration to cosmetic enhancement. They are a versatile solution for a range of dental issues.
When a tooth is fractured, has a large filling, or is severely damaged by decay, a crown can be applied to protect and preserve the remaining tooth structure.
For teeth that are discoloured or poorly shaped, crowns can cover and correct the aesthetic appearance, resulting in a more pleasing smile.
Dental crowns are often used to complete a dental implant procedure, serving as the final step to provide a functional and aesthetically pleasing replacement for a missing tooth.
Dental crowns are made from various materials, each offering specific benefits. The choice of material depends on factors such as the tooth's location, the patient's gum tissue position, the amount of natural tooth remaining, and personal preference.
Ceramic or porcelain crowns provide the best natural colour match and are more suitable for people with metal allergies. They are usually the preferred choice for front teeth.
Metal crowns are extremely durable and withstand biting and chewing forces well. They rarely chip or break and have a long lifespan. Metals used in crowns include gold alloy, other alloys (palladium), or a base-metal alloy (nickel or chromium).
These crowns provide a stronger bond than regular porcelain because they are connected to a metal structure. They are also highly durable.
The process of getting a dental crown usually requires two visits to the dentist. The first involves examining and preparing the tooth, while the second visit involves placement of the permanent crown.
During the first visit, the dentist may take X-rays to check the roots of the tooth and surrounding bone. If the tooth has extensive decay or if there is a risk of infection, a root canal treatment may be performed. The tooth is then reshaped to make room for the crown.
During the second visit, the permanent crown is placed on your tooth. When you and your dentist are satisfied with how the crown looks and feels, it is cemented into place.
Dental crowns are a reliable solution for restoring and enhancing the function and appearance of damaged teeth. By covering the entire visible aspect of a tooth, a crown serves to strengthen, protect, and improve the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, contributing to a healthier, more vibrant smile.
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits in terms of strength, appearance, and cost. The choice of material is an important decision and depends on factors such as the tooth's location, the patient's preferences, and the desired aesthetic outcome.
Each material used for dental crowns has specific properties that make it suitable for different situations. Understanding the characteristics of each can help in making an informed choice.
Porcelain or ceramic crowns provide the best natural colour match compared to other crown types, making them a popular choice for front teeth. They are also a good option for people with metal allergies.
Metal crowns, including gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium, offer high strength and durability. They withstand biting and chewing forces well and are known for their long-term wear resistance. They are a good choice for out-of-sight molars.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns offer a stronger bond than regular porcelain because they are connected to a metal structure. They provide both the strength of metal and the aesthetic appeal of porcelain, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
Composite resin crowns are less expensive than other crown types, but they are also more prone to wear and are less durable. They can be a good choice for temporary crowns.
Stainless steel crowns are pre-fabricated crowns used on permanent teeth primarily as a temporary measure. They protect the tooth or filling while a permanent crown is made from another material.
Several factors need to be considered when choosing the material for a dental crown, including the tooth's function and location, the position of the gum tissue, the patient's preference, and the colour of the surrounding teeth.
For teeth that endure heavy biting forces, such as molars, stronger materials like metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal may be preferred.
For front teeth, where appearance is more important, ceramic or porcelain crowns are often chosen for their natural colour and texture.
The cost of crown materials varies, with gold and porcelain being typically more expensive than other options. Discussing the cost and benefits of each material with your dental professional can guide you in making a cost-effective choice that meets your needs.
Choosing the right material for a dental crown is crucial for ensuring the crown serves its purpose effectively, whether it's restoring the tooth's function or enhancing its aesthetic appearance. Discussing your specific needs and preferences with your dental professional will help you make the best choice for your oral health.
Dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a restoration that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The process of matching dental crowns to the natural colour of your teeth involves a combination of artistry and science.
The material of the crown plays a significant role in colour matching. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their ability to closely mimic the natural translucency and colour variation of tooth enamel.
These materials can be custom shaded to match the colour of your natural teeth. They reflect light in a similar way to natural tooth enamel, providing a realistic appearance.
While these crowns have a metal base, the porcelain exterior can be tinted to match the neighbouring teeth. However, the metal foundation may affect translucency, making them slightly less natural-looking than all-porcelain or all-ceramic options.
Accurately matching the shade of the crown to your natural teeth is a meticulous process that involves both your dentist and the dental laboratory technician.
Dentists use a shade guide to compare different shades with your natural teeth under various lighting conditions. This ensures that the chosen shade matches as closely as possible.
In cases where an exact match is challenging, custom shading can be achieved by sending detailed colour notes and photographs to the dental laboratory. The lab technician can then create a crown with layered colours to mimic the natural gradation of tooth enamel.
Beyond colour matching, several other factors contribute to the natural appearance of dental crowns.
The shape and texture of the crown are tailored to match the natural teeth, taking into account the patient's bite and the unique characteristics of the surrounding teeth.
The crown's material is chosen and crafted to reflect light similarly to natural tooth enamel, providing a lifelike translucency and depth.
Achieving a natural colour match for dental crowns is a detailed process that combines the art of aesthetics with dental technology. By carefully selecting materials, employing precise shade matching techniques, and considering the individual characteristics of each patient's teeth, dental professionals can create crowns that beautifully blend with the natural dentition.
Getting a dental crown typically involves a multi-step process that takes place over two or more visits to your dental professional. The procedure is methodically carried out to ensure the crown fits comfortably and functions like a natural tooth.
The process begins with a thorough examination of the tooth that requires the crown. Your dental professional may take X-rays to assess the roots of the tooth and the surrounding bone.
If the tooth is severely decayed, has a large filling, or is cracked or broken, your dental professional may recommend a crown as the best course of action.
Any issues, such as decay or gum disease, will need to be treated before proceeding with the crown placement.
Preparing the tooth for a crown involves reshaping the tooth to ensure the crown fits properly. This may involve removing part of the tooth's outer surface or building up the core of the tooth if additional support is needed.
Before the reshaping begins, the area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
The tooth is reshaped using a drill to create an optimal shape and size for the crown. This ensures the crown will fit comfortably and align correctly with your bite.
Once the tooth is reshaped, an impression is made using a digital scanner or a mould. This impression provides an exact model for the crown.
While your permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. This also helps maintain the proper space in your mouth and ensures comfort and functionality.
The impression of your tooth is sent to a dental laboratory, where the crown is custom-made. The crown is fabricated to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth.
You and your dental professional will choose the material for your crown based on factors such as the tooth's location, function, and your aesthetic preferences.
Once your permanent crown is ready, you'll return for a final appointment. The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is adjusted and cemented into place.
Your dental professional will ensure the crown fits comfortably and aligns correctly with your bite. Adjustments will be made as needed before the crown is permanently cemented.
Getting a dental crown is a detailed process that requires precision and care. From the initial consultation to the final placement, each step is crucial for ensuring the crown is a perfect fit and provides a functional, aesthetic, and long-lasting solution for your tooth.
Dental crowns are designed to fit snugly over the existing tooth structure, providing strength, protection, and an improved appearance. The process of fitting a crown is meticulous and tailored to ensure that each crown interacts harmoniously with the patient's natural tooth structure and bite.
The process begins with the preparation of the tooth. This involves reshaping the tooth to create an ideal base for the crown. The goal is to remove enough of the tooth to allow the crown to fit over it without appearing bulky or impacting the bite.
The tooth is carefully reshaped using precise dental tools. The amount of tooth removed depends on the type of crown being used. For instance, all-metal crowns are typically thinner and require less tooth structure to be removed than porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
If a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it may need to be built up with a filling material to support the crown adequately.
Once the tooth is reshaped, an impression is taken to provide an exact mould for the crown. This ensures that the crown will be an exact fit over the prepared tooth and will align properly with the surrounding teeth.
Impressions can be made digitally or with physical moulding materials. Both methods aim to capture the precise shape and placement of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth.
The crown is crafted in a dental laboratory based on the impression. Skilled technicians work to ensure the crown is the correct shape, size, and colour, and that it fits the mould perfectly.
When the crown is placed over the tooth, your dental professional will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it is comfortable and that your bite is correct. This may involve slight modifications to the crown or further contouring of the tooth.
Once the perfect fit is achieved, the crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth. This secures the crown in place, ensuring that it functions just like a natural tooth.
A special dental cement is used to bond the crown to the tooth. The cement fills any gaps between the crown and the tooth, creating a seamless fit and preventing bacteria from entering.
Dental crowns are designed to fit perfectly with the existing tooth structure, providing a seamless and functional restoration. The process, from tooth preparation to the final placement of the crown, is carried out with precision and care to ensure that the crown not only fits well but also restores the tooth's strength and appearance.
Dental crowns and dental veneers are both restorative dental procedures used to improve the appearance and function of teeth. However, they serve different purposes and involve distinct procedures and materials. Understanding these differences is key to determining the most appropriate treatment for individual dental concerns.
One of the main differences between crowns and veneers lies in how they cover the tooth.
Dental crowns cover the entire tooth. They are used when a tooth is significantly damaged or decayed, providing strength and protection for the tooth structure beneath.
Dental veneers, on the other hand, are thin coverings that are placed only on the front surface of the tooth. They are primarily used for cosmetic purposes to enhance the appearance of teeth.
The procedures for applying crowns and veneers also differ significantly.
Preparing a tooth for a crown involves removing a significant portion of the tooth structure to accommodate the thickness of the crown. This process is irreversible.
Veneers require minimal tooth preparation, with only a small amount of the tooth's surface being removed. This makes veneers a more conservative treatment compared to crowns.
The materials used for crowns and veneers vary, influencing their appearance, durability, and cost.
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. They are durable and designed to withstand the forces of chewing and biting.
Veneers are usually made from porcelain or composite resin. While they are strong and can last many years, they are generally not as strong as crowns.
Both crowns and veneers are used to improve the appearance of teeth, but they serve different aesthetic purposes.
Crowns are used to restore teeth that are badly decayed, fractured, have undergone root canal treatment, or are severely discoloured. They cover the entire tooth, providing a new surface and shape.
Veneers are ideal for cosmetic enhancements such as correcting minor misalignment, gaps, or discoloration. They provide a natural look and feel, offering an aesthetic solution without extensive dental work.
In summary, while both dental crowns and veneers serve to improve the appearance and function of teeth, they differ in terms of their application, preparation, material, and the extent of coverage they provide. Understanding these differences is crucial in choosing the right treatment for restoring or enhancing your smile.
Dental crowns are a versatile treatment option and can be used on almost all types of teeth, including molars. The suitability of dental crowns for a particular tooth depends on the condition of the tooth, the specific dental issue being addressed, and the tooth's role in chewing and biting.
Front teeth, which are highly visible, often receive crowns for cosmetic reasons or to restore a tooth after significant decay or damage.
For front teeth, crowns are often used to improve the appearance of the tooth, correcting issues like severe discolouration or misshapen teeth.
Front teeth that are chipped, cracked, or broken can be restored with crowns, providing strength and preventing further damage.
Molars, which primarily function in chewing and grinding food, can also benefit greatly from crowns, especially when the tooth's structure is compromised.
Molars that are decayed or have large fillings may be covered with crowns to restore their strength and functionality, ensuring efficient chewing and grinding of food.
After root canal therapy, molars are often capped with crowns to protect the tooth from further damage and restore its strength, as the tooth can become brittle after the procedure.
When choosing crowns for molars, certain considerations need to be taken into account, particularly because of the substantial forces these teeth endure during chewing.
The materials used for molar crowns, such as porcelain-fused-to-metal or metal alloys, are chosen for their strength and durability to withstand the forces of biting and chewing.
Ensuring a precise fit is crucial for molar crowns to maintain proper bite alignment and avoid issues with the opposing teeth or jaw.
Dental crowns are indeed suitable for all types of teeth, including molars. They provide a solution for restoring damaged teeth, enhancing cosmetic appearance, and ensuring the functionality of teeth, especially when it comes to the high-pressure environment of the back of the mouth. The material and design of the crown are tailored to meet the specific needs of each tooth, whether it's a front tooth or a molar, ensuring a successful and lasting restoration.
While dental crowns are generally safe and effective, as with any dental procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. It's important to be aware of these to make an informed decision and to know what to expect during and after the procedure.
Most risks associated with dental crowns are minor and can be effectively managed or prevented with proper care and attention.
After the placement of a crown, you may experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, especially if the crowned tooth still has a nerve in it. Your dentist may recommend toothpaste for sensitive teeth to alleviate this.
Porcelain crowns, in particular, can sometimes chip. Small chips can be repaired, but if the damage is significant, the entire crown may need to be replaced.
While less common, there are a few additional risks that can occur with dental crowns.
The cement that holds the crown in place can sometimes wash out from underneath the crown. This not only allows the crown to become loose but also allows bacteria to leak in and cause decay to the remaining tooth structure.
Occasionally, crowns can fall off. This can happen due to improper fit, a lack of cement, or a very small amount of tooth structure remaining that the crown can hold on to. If this happens, contact your dentist immediately.
Although rare, some people may be allergic to the metals used in certain types of crowns, such as porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
If you have a known metal allergy, inform your dentist so that they can choose the appropriate material for your crown.
Proper dental hygiene and regular visits to your dentist can mitigate most risks associated with dental crowns.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is crucial to prevent decay or gum disease around the crown.
Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues before they become significant problems.
While risks and side effects with dental crowns are relatively rare and usually minor, being aware of them and maintaining proper oral hygiene can help ensure the longevity and success of your dental crown. If you experience any issues with your crown, it's important to contact your dental professional promptly.
Dental crowns are a long-term solution for restoring teeth, but their lifespan can vary based on various factors. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last for many years, providing a durable and reliable restoration.
On average, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. The lifespan of a crown depends on the amount of wear and tear it is exposed to, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices, and your personal mouth-related habits.
The material of the crown can affect its durability. Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance, while metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are typically more durable and better suited for molars.
Several factors can influence how long a dental crown lasts.
Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can prevent decay and gum disease, which can adversely affect your crowns.
Habits such as grinding or clenching your teeth, chewing ice, biting fingernails, and using your teeth to open packaging can all shorten the lifespan of a crown.
There are several steps you can take to ensure your crown lasts as long as possible.
Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues, such as looseness or decay, before they require a replacement crown.
Avoiding habits that can damage your crown, such as chewing hard foods or objects, can help extend its lifespan.
If you grind your teeth at night, consider asking your dentist about a night guard to protect your crown and surrounding teeth.
While dental crowns are a durable solution for tooth restoration, their lifespan can be affected by materials, oral hygiene, and personal habits. Taking proactive steps to care for your crown and attending regular dental check-ups can help ensure your crown lasts as long as possible.
Dental crowns are considered a long-term but not a permanent solution. They are one of the most durable and reliable forms of dental restoration and can significantly prolong the life of a damaged tooth. However, like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced.
While dental crowns are not permanent, they are designed to last many years. The longevity of a dental crown depends on a variety of factors, including the material used, the crown's placement in the mouth, and the individual's oral hygiene practices.
On average, dental crowns can last between 5 and 15 years. In many cases, with proper care, they can last much longer, sometimes even decades.
The lifespan of a dental crown can be extended with proper maintenance and care.
Regular brushing and flossing can prevent decay and gum disease, which can undermine the crown and the underlying tooth.
Visiting your dentist regularly allows for the early detection and treatment of any problems with your crown or the underlying tooth, potentially extending the crown's lifespan.
Over time, a crown may need to be replaced due to wear and tear or other issues.
Chipping, cracking, or wearing down of the crown material can occur, especially in people who grind their teeth or have a misaligned bite.
If decay develops at the margin of the crown, the crown will need to be removed to treat the decay, and a new crown may need to be placed.
When considering dental crowns, it's important to understand that while they are not a permanent fix, they are a long-term solution that can significantly improve the strength, appearance, and functionality of damaged teeth.
Discussing your specific situation and needs with a dental professional will provide you with the best understanding of how a crown can benefit you and how to ensure its longevity.
In summary, while dental crowns are not a permanent solution, they are a durable and reliable option for restoring damaged teeth. With proper care and regular dental visits, they can serve as a long-term solution, maintaining oral health and functionality for many years.
When it comes to dental crowns in Putney, look no further than Putney Hill Dental. Our commitment to excellence, combined with our exceptional team of dental professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, ensures that you receive the highest standard of care. Let us help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile. Book your consultation or learn more about our dental crown services today!
