Dental crowns
Dental crowns have many uses. A dental crown helps to restore functionality to a worn, damaged or broken tooth. We can fit your dental crown in just one visit at our Wellington dental practices, thanks to CEREC technology.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown, also called a dental cap or teeth caps, is used to protect and restore a tooth when a filling isn’t enough. Dental crowns help to restore function to a damaged, cracked, chipped or worn-down tooth.
During your dental crown procedure your dentist will reshape the damaged tooth and place a crown over the top, covering the existing tooth. On average, dental crowns last between five and fifteen years.
CEREC one visit dental crowns
We've been using CEREC (Ceramic Reconstruction) technology since 2008 to produce restorations and dental crowns in a single visit.
Usually, a dental crown is made and fitted over two appointments. CEREC, CAD/CAM technology allows our dentists to create a dental crown in-house. There is no need for messy impressions or wearing a temporary crown while you wait for your permanent fitting. The whole experience is a lot faster, streamlined, and more comfortable than traditional crowns.
How are CEREC crowns made?
A one-visit dental crown takes around two hours from start to finish. Your dentist will take a digital scan of your teeth so that we can design an accurately shaped crown. Once the design is complete, we use an in-practice milling machine to fabricate the crown from a solid block of ceramic or resin. Once this is done, your dentist will permanently bond the crown to your tooth.
What to expect at your crown appointment
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One two-hour appointment
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Patients will have two 20-minute breaks while the restoration is milled and crystallised
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Pain-relief options including local anesthetic and numbing gel
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I take care of my dental crowns?
Caring for a dental crown or dental cap is a lot like caring for your regular teeth. You should brush your dental crown twice a day, floss between the neighbouring teeth and use a fluoride protectant toothpaste. Dental crowns are durable but can break or crack, just like your natural teeth. Avoid eating hard, sticky or chewy foods. Learn more ways to care for your teeth here.
Do dental crowns look natural?
Crowns are often used to fix misshapen, discoloured or damaged teeth and are therefore designed to blend in with your natural tooth. Your dentist will take care to match the colour of your dental crown to the natural colour of your teeth. After the procedure no one will be able to tell that you have had a dental crown fitted.
How do I know if I need a dental crown?
There are many reasons a person might need a dental crown. A crown can be used to hold a damaged tooth together. Dental crowns can also help restore functionality to a worn tooth. Dental crowns can also be used to hold a dental bridge in place, cover a misshapen tooth or a tooth treated with a root canal.
