Everything About Dental Crowns Explained

Your teeth endure constant pressure from chewing, biting, and daily wear, making them susceptible to damage over time. Whether due to tooth decay, fractures, or cosmetic concerns, a weakened tooth can lead to discomfort and even more serious dental complications if left untreated. Dental crowns are one of the most effective restorative solutions, designed to reinforce and protect damaged teeth while enhancing their appearance.

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and functionality. It not only prevents further damage but also improves the aesthetic appeal of your smile. Modern dental crowns come in different materials, including Emax, zirconia, and metal-porcelain, each offering unique advantages based on durability and appearance.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about dental crowns, including when they are necessary, the types available, the procedure, and their benefits and drawbacks. Whether you’re considering a crown for restorative or cosmetic reasons, understanding the process can help you make an informed decision about your dental health.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. It fully encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, restoring its strength, size, and appearance. Crowns are custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them an ideal solution for both restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

Key Functions of a Dental Crown:

• Strengthens weakened or fractured teeth
• Restores shape and size for improved function
• Protects a tooth after root canal treatment
• Covers dental implants for a complete restoration
• Enhances aesthetics by correcting discoloration or irregularities

When Would You Need a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are a versatile solution in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, offering protection, strength, and an aesthetic boost to compromised teeth. Whether due to decay, damage, or cosmetic concerns, crowns serve as a long-term fix to keep your smile healthy and functional. Below are some of the most common reasons a dentist may recommend a crown:

Severe Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a progressive condition that, if left untreated, can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. When a cavity becomes too large for a filling, a dental crown provides a strong, protective covering that prevents further deterioration.

Why a crown instead of a filling?

A filling works well for minor cavities, but when too much of the tooth structure is damaged, a crown is needed to reinforce and restore the tooth’s shape and function.

Cracked or Broken Teeth

Teeth can crack or break due to accidents, biting down on hard foods, or even nighttime grinding (bruxism). A crown holds the tooth together, preventing further fracture or tooth loss.

Types of fractures that may require a crown:

• Minor cracks (crazing lines): May not need treatment but should be monitored.
• Moderate cracks: When a crack extends deeper into the tooth, a crown can stabilize and protect it.
• Severe cracks or splits: If the crack reaches the root, a root canal + crown may be required.

After a Root Canal Treatment

A root canal procedure removes infected pulp from within a tooth, saving it from extraction. However, since the tooth is left hollowed out and fragile, it needs a crown for reinforcement.

What happens if you skip the crown?

Without a crown, the tooth remains weak and prone to breakage, which could lead to complete loss of the tooth over time.

Cosmetic Enhancement

If you have stained, misshapen, or uneven teeth, crowns can serve as a cosmetic solution, giving you a brighter, more uniform smile.

Crowns vs. Veneers: Which is better?

• Crowns cover the entire tooth and are ideal for severely damaged or weakened teeth.
• Veneers are thin shells that cover only the front surface of the tooth, best for mild cosmetic imperfections.

At MCAN Dental, we help you choose the right solution based on your dental needs and aesthetic goals.

Dental Implants

If you’re missing a tooth, a dental implant + crown combination is the most natural and durable replacement.

How does a crown complete the implant?

1. The implant post is placed into the jawbone and allowed to heal.
2. An abutment is attached to the implant.
3. A custom-made crown is placed on top, creating a fully functional, natural-looking tooth.

Types of Dental Crowns

At MCAN Dental, we offer several types of dental crowns, each tailored to meet different patient needs. Here’s how they compare:

What Happens During a Dental Crown Procedure?

Getting a dental crown is a multi-step process that typically requires two visits to the dentist. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Tooth Preparation

• The dentist removes damaged or decayed portions of the tooth.
• The tooth is reshaped to make space for the crown.
• Impressions are taken to ensure a perfect fit.

Step 2: Temporary Crown Placement

• While your custom crown is being created in the lab, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth.

Step 3: Permanent Crown Placement

• At your next visit, the temporary crown is removed.
• The new, custom-fitted crown is securely cemented in place.
• Final adjustments are made to ensure a perfect bite and natural feel.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a popular and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, but like any dental treatment, they come with both advantages and limitations. Understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about whether a crown is the right choice for you.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

• Restores Strength and Function: A dental crown acts as a protective shield, reinforcing a weakened tooth and restoring its full functionality. This allows you to bite, chew, and speak comfortably without worrying about further damage.
• Enhances the Appearance of Your Smile: Crowns are designed to match the shape, color, and size of your natural teeth, making them a great option for cosmetic improvements.
• Long-Lasting Solution (10-15+ Years): With proper care, dental crowns can last 10-15 years or even longer. Materials like zirconium and Emax ceramic are particularly durable and resistant to wear.
• Protects Teeth from Further Damage: A crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, shielding it from decay, fractures, and external forces.

Disadvantages of Dental Crowns

• Temporary Sensitivity After Placement: Some patients experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after getting a crown, especially if the tooth’s nerves were affected during preparation.
• Cost Varies Depending on Material and Complexity: The type of material, the complexity of the procedure and potential treatment additions are the factors that the cost of a crown depends on.

How to Care for Your Dental Crown

Taking care of your dental crown is easy and essential for its longevity. 

Follow these simple tips:

• Brush twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Floss daily to prevent gum disease around the crown
• Avoid hard foods that may crack or dislodge the crown
• Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning

Are Dental Crowns Permanent?

While dental crowns are long-lasting, they are not permanent. On average, they last 10-15 years with good oral hygiene and maintenance.

Factors that affect longevity include:

• Material used (Emax and Zirconia tend to last longer)
• Oral hygiene habits
• Biting and chewing forces

If a crown becomes loose or worn out, it may need replacement.

Dental Implants and Crowns: The Perfect Combination

Dental crowns play a crucial role in dental implant procedures, acting as the visible and functional part of a fully restored tooth. While implants are considered a long-term solution, some patients may experience side effects over time, such as bone loss or gum irritation. If you’re considering a dental implant, it’s essential to understand all potential risks. Learn more in our blog on Long-Term Side Effects of Dental Implants.

What Does a Dental Implant Look Like Before the Crown?

Before the crown is placed, the dental implant consists of two key components:

• Titanium Post: Surgically inserted into the jawbone, this post acts as an artificial tooth root. Over time, the jawbone naturally fuses with the post in a process called osseointegration, ensuring a strong foundation.
• Abutment: This small connector is attached to the implant and serves as the anchor for the crown. It sits just above the gum line and provides the necessary support for the final restoration.

During the healing phase, the implant is typically left to integrate with the bone for three to six months, ensuring a stable base before the crown is attached.

How Is a Dental Crown Fitted to a Dental Implant?

The process of placing a crown on a dental implant involves several steps:

1. Implant Placement: The titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone and left to heal for several months as the bone integrates with it.
2. Abutment Attachment: Once healing is complete, a small metal abutment is placed on top of the implant, acting as the support structure for the crown.
3. Custom Crown Placement: A custom-made crown, designed to match the shape and color of natural teeth, is securely fitted onto the abutment. This final step completes the restoration, allowing the patient to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

With proper care, dental implants and crowns can last for decades, making them one of the most reliable tooth replacement solutions available.

Should I Have a Permanent Crown or a Dental Implant?

Deciding between a standalone dental crown and a dental implant with a crown depends on the condition of your natural tooth root:

• If the tooth root is still healthy, a dental crown alone can restore the damaged tooth by strengthening and protecting it. This is an effective solution when the natural root is intact but the visible part of the tooth is broken, decayed, or weakened.
• If the root is missing or damaged, a dental implant with a crown is the best long-term option. Since the implant fully replaces the lost tooth root, it prevents bone loss and provides a stable, permanent solution for missing teeth.
• If the root is damaged/missing → A dental implant with a crown is the best solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

How Long Does It Take to Feel Better After a Dental Crown Procedure?

Most patients recover within a few days, though some may experience mild sensitivity for up to two weeks. In the first 24 to 48 hours, slight soreness around the treated tooth is normal. Sensitivity to hot or cold foods usually decreases within a week, and by the second week, your mouth should feel fully adjusted. Avoid chewing on hard foods initially, use sensitivity toothpaste, and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. If pain lasts beyond two weeks, consult your dentist.

Are Dental Crowns Painful?

The procedure itself is not painful since local anesthesia numbs the area. Some patients may feel pressure during tooth preparation, and mild gum soreness is common afterward. If a crown does not fit properly, it may cause discomfort when chewing, which can be easily adjusted by your dentist. For patients with dental anxiety, MCAN Dental offers sedation options for a more comfortable experience.

Dental Cap vs. Crown: Is There a Difference?

No, a dental cap and a dental crown are the same thing. “Dental crown” is the professional term, while “dental cap” is a more casual way of describing it. Both refer to a custom-made restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth.

How Much Is a Dental Crown?

The cost of a dental crown depends on the material and location of treatment. In the UK, prices range from £600 to £1,500, while in the US, they can be between $800 and $2,500. In Turkey, high-quality crowns at MCAN Dental cost between £160 and £300, offering the same standard of care at a more affordable price. MCAN Dental also provides all-inclusive packages covering treatment, airport transfers, and accommodation. Free consultations are available for personalized pricing.

Veneers vs. Crowns: Which Option Is Right for Me?

Both veneers and crowns enhance the appearance of teeth, but they serve different purposes. Veneers are a popular choice for cosmetic improvements, but their durability differs from crowns. If you’re considering veneers instead of crowns, you may want to explore their longevity and care requirements. Check out our article on How Long Do Veneers Last? to learn more.

Why Choose MCAN Health for Your Dental Crown in Turkey?

Choosing the right clinic for your dental crowns in Turkey is crucial to achieving optimal results. At MCAN Dental, we pride ourselves on offering more than just dental treatments; we provide comprehensive care that prioritizes your health, comfort, and satisfaction.

• Expert Dentists: Highly qualified specialists in restorative dentistry
• State-of-the-Art Clinics: Equipped with the latest technology
• Affordable Prices: High-quality dental care at a fraction of UK costs
• All-Inclusive Packages: Travel, accommodation, and treatment in one seamless experience
• Patient-Centered Care: Personalized treatment plans and multilingual support

At MCAN Dental, our dedication to excellence is reflected in our national and international accreditations, numerous awards, and a high patient satisfaction rate. We invite you to join the thousands of satisfied patients who have transformed their smiles with us.

Ready to restore your smile? Contact MCAN Dental today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile!