When not properly cared for, our teeth can weaken as they get exposed to bacteria that cause dental caries or cavities. As a result, chips or cracks can happen on the surface of the teeth. This occurrence not only makes the teeth unpleasant to look at, but can also lead to health problems given that our teeth can no longer function properly.

One of the many ways our teeth can be restored is through the use of dental crowns. 

Crowns are a kind of dental appliance that are each shaped like a tooth. They can help damaged or weak teeth by protecting or keeping the broken parts of the teeth intact. They can also be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth, cap a dental implant, hide large fillings, or keep a dental bridge in place. 

If you’ve ever wondered what goes behind that small yet sturdy dental crown of yours, this article (and a bonus behind-the-scenes video from our lab) will tell you more. 

First, what are dental crowns made of?

In Singapore, there are various materials that a dental crown can be made of - these include all ceramic or all-porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-resin, metal or zirconia. 

	Pros	Cons
All-ceramic or all-porcelain	For people allergic to metals, the best material to use for a dental crown is ceramic or porcelain. Crowns made from either of these components closely mimic the colour of natural teeth. Due to their ability to bond, they are usually more conservative in trimming your tooth.	Porcelain and ceramic crowns do not last as long compared to their metal or resin counterparts
Porcelain-fused-to-metal	Most are slightly stronger than pure ceramic and pure porcelain crowns.	They can wear teeth that rub against it and the metal portion of the crown (which appears as a dark line) may be more obvious especially when gums recede.
All-resin	Mix of different plastic materials, most budget friendly.	Least durable out of all dental crowns - fractured easily and cannot withstand immense pressure.
Metal	Extremely durable, able to withstand intense chewing forces. Recommended for molars.	Not aesthetically pleasing as colours cannot be altered to match your natural teeth. Most expensive too.
Zirconia	Very strong and last as long as metal crowns, appearance wise they can match up to porcelain crowns but they are more opaque and hence might not look as natural.	May damage neighbouring teeth that come into contact. Adjustments can also be difficult to make once they have been set in place permanently.

To decide which material is best for you, please speak to your dentist. 

How are dental crowns made?

At Dental Designs, we are proud to have a stellar team of in-house technicians and dentists who can create excellent, high quality same day dental crowns. We believe that your dental crown involves not just the correct software but a touch of artistry as well. 

Here is a quick overview on the steps involved in making a dental crown with us: 

Dental assessment 

You will undergo a thorough examination so we can check your overall oral health. Each tooth with evident decay or damage that may need a dental crown will be identified. A photo image of your oral profile will also be taken. This, together with the examination results of your teeth, will be used to plan your treatment. We will recommend alternative options for treatment in case dental crowns are not the ideal solution for your teeth’s condition.

Getting the tooth ready followed by 3D scanning

This involves taking away the decaying parts of the tooth in order to keep the rest healthy and establish the durability of the dental crown. Next, a 3D scanner (CEREC) is used to scan your teeth. The image generated from this will be used to make your teeth’s 3D model. Compared to traditional moulds, 3D models cut your waiting time as the crowns can be fabricated instantly and on the same day.

Customizing your crown’s design

It is our goal for you to have a natural looking set of teeth. With the help of our advanced software, called CEREC CAD/CAM, we then proceed to custom design your dental crowns. This process ensures that your dental crowns fit well among the surrounding teeth and can withstand pressures from biting and chewing.

Crown milling and final touches

Using the 3D CAD/CAM, we mill your crowns from a single block of ceramic material. As soon as the crowns are made, they are sent to our in-house dental technician who works magic by making your dental crown look natural.

Application of crown

Once the crown is ready, it is set in its proper place and secured with the use of dental adhesives.

Follow up consultation

We ask our patients to come back after one week for a follow-up consultation to ensure that your dental crown is not causing any problem. During this time, we will assess the strength of the crown and see if its placement has any negative effect on your bite.

Am I a suitable candidate for dental crowns?

You are a suitable candidate for dental crowns if you wish to:

• Cap a dental implant
• Protect a weak tooth from further decay 
• Restore a broken tooth
• Secure a dental bridge in place
• If a root canal treatment was done on your tooth

Dental crowns may also be used for cosmetic purposes, like improving the appearance of a tooth that is heavily stained, misshapen, or has visible cracks or damages. However, if this is your purpose, you might also want consider porcelain veneers.

Are same day crowns better than lab created crowns? 

Time

Lab-created crowns require at least two appointments and a waiting time of 2-3 weeks to complete. The process also includes sinking your teeth into gooey impressions and getting fitted with a temporary crown. 

With same day crowns, patients can get their crown milled and placed in a single visit. 

Appearance 

Creating same day crowns, we use CAD/CAM technology to measure and recreate every detail of your existing tooth to ensure your porcelain crown looks as natural as possible. We can also do modifications on the spot if necessary. 

Fit 

Lab-created crowns run a high risk of inaccuracy, as analog impressions tend to be distorted if you have too much saliva in your mouth or if your technician makes a mistake. 

Same day crowns ensure an accurate fit as the CAD/CAM technology takes a clear 3D impression of your teeth. 

Durability and strength 

Granted, lab-created crowns that are made from metals are inevitably stronger. However, today’s same day crowns are made from sturdy porcelain and can last anywhere from 10-15 years with proper care and maintenance. 

Cost 

The cost of getting a lab-created crown and same day crown is comparable

Do you have any questions for us? Feel free to drop us a message and we will be happy to assist! 

As Singaporeans, we always want the most affordable and value-for-money services, including dental crown procedures. We know that Medisave can be used for a variety of medical services, but what about dental crowns? If Medisave can’t cover it, can I use insurance instead? Let’s take a closer look at the costs of dental crowns and what are the procedures that can be covered. 

What is the cost of a dental crown in Singapore? 

Getting dental crowns in Singapore typically costs between $750 and over $1000 per tooth. This varies according to the material chosen and the complexity of your individual case. Crowns made of gold typically cost more. 

There may be two installments, with half of it given as a deposit before treatment and the other half after the procedure has been successfully completed.

The list of average fees paid by private patients in Singapore’s public institutions for certain dental procedures can be found on the Ministry of Health (MOH) website. For dental crowns, the following table shows the average prices. For more details, you may wish to check with the institutions directly. 

Average Cost of Crowns
Public Institutions
National University Centre for Oral Health (NUCOHS)	S$1,284
Changi General Hospital (CGH)	S$758
Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (KTPH)	S$850
Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH)	S$750 - S$950
National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS)	S$829 - S$1,057

Can I use Medisave for dental crowns? 

Unfortunately, non-surgical dental procedures cannot be claimed using Medisave under CPF. Hence, Medisave cannot be used for the following: 

• Non-surgical root canal treatment 
• Braces (metal or Invisalign) 
• Dental crowns, bridges, or dentures 
• Teeth extraction that do not require surgery 

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

What dental procedures can be claimed with Medisave? 

You may use Medisave to pay for the following dental surgery services: 

• Dental implants 
• Wisdom tooth surgeries 
• Surgical removal of retained roots/fractured teeth 
• Bone graft 
• Sinus lift 
• Gum surgery 

The fixed limit of the amount you can claim from Medisave will depend on the type of surgery. Claims from Medisave may be anywhere between $250 to $2850 depending on how complex the surgical procedure is. 

You may also wish to use an immediate family member’s Medisave should your own be insufficient. This refers to your spouse, parents or children’s Medisave. However, this is subject to approval depending on your account balance. The Medisave Account Holder also has to fill up and sign the Medisave Authorisation Form. 

Dental Designs is a Medisave Accredited Clinic approved by MOH Singapore. Read more on the FAQs regarding the use of Medisave at Dental Designs. 

Can I use insurance for my dental crown? 

Insurance in Singapore typically only covers clinically necessary procedures. Procedures that are considered non-essential or elective would not be covered under most dental insurance plans. 

Cases, where orthodontic treatment can be claimed with insurance, include those that are deemed medically necessary, such as: 

• When there is an accident that damaged the face or teeth 
• Severe malocclusion that causes tooth decay or periodontitis that can only be resolved with orthodontic treatment

Normally, the following are covered by dental insurance in Singapore:

• Emergency dental treatments 
• Routine preventive treatments and basic dental treatments such as scaling, polishing and dental fillings
• X-rays 
• Teeth extractions 
• Root canal treatments 
• Family members’ dental fees for certain procedures

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Conclusion

Generally, Medisave cannot be used for dental crown procedures because they are non-surgical. However, insurance may be able to cover your dental crown procedure if it is required as a result of accidents. Insurance may also cover other basic dental treatments. For more information on the list of procedures you can claim for, check with your dental insurance provider. 

References 

1. MOH | Average Fee For Dental Procedures. (2019). AVERAGE FEE FOR DENTAL PROCEDURES. https://www.moh.gov.sg/cost-financing/average-fee-for-dental-procedures 

Dental crowns are used to restore damaged teeth. While dental crowns may be made of tough material, they are also susceptible to damage if not cared for properly. Here are some tips and tricks for you to keep your smile on.

What foods should I avoid for my dental crown?

Nuts 

Nuts usually require a lot of force to bite down on. Steer clear from them!

Crunchy vegetables 

Just like nuts, crunchy vegetables may be bad for a newly crowned tooth. Make sure the vegetables are thoroughly cooked till soft and avoid eating raw vegetables. 

Sticky foods 

Caramel and candy are sticky foods that you must avoid for the good of your crown. Sticky foods can stick to the crown and cause tooth decay or cavities! 

Cold foods 

After getting a new crown, your teeth may be more sensitive to cold foods, causing pain. Hot foods may do the same thing too. Your dentist would recommend a sensitive toothpaste to soothe the nerves if the pain is unbearable. 

Fizzy drinks

Fizzy drinks like coca-cola are bad for your teeth. They are high in sugar and cause enamel erosion and cavities. 

Gum

Gum is a type of sticky food that people like to chew on after a meal to freshen up their breath. Instead of using chewing gum, use a mouthwash to rinse your mouth. Gum may get stuck onto your crown and cause damage to it. 

Raisins 

Raisins are a kind of sticky food that is healthy but still bad for your crown. It could pull the crown off if you’re not careful, so stay away from all dried fruits! 

Popcorn 

Popcorn is a popular snack for movies and television, but it could mean bad news for your new crown, especially if the kernels get wedged between your teeth, causing damage to your crown. 

Ice 

Some people have the habit of chewing ice. This is a big no-no. Ice is too hard for a new crown to handle. Also, the cold from the ice may cause sensitivity too.

Steak 

Steaks can be tough to chew, which could damage your crown. Softer proteins like baked chicken or fish would be a better option.

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How do you care for crowns?

Crowns can last 5 - 15 years if you care for them properly. Following your crown procedure, chew foods with the other side of your mouth first. Once the cement has hardened, you can chew food on both sides. Take extra care to brush and floss your teeth regularly, and make sure you clean the crowned tooth thoroughly. 

Last, of all, visit your dentist for regular checkups every 6 months. Your dentist will clean your teeth and give you the advice to keep your crown and teeth in good shape. 

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

Summary

The rule of thumb is to avoid all hard, sticky and cold foods. If you’re not sure, just play it safe, or ask the dentist the next time you visit them. Always follow the advice of your dentist – they are the professionals and will always be there to help you.

References 

1. Lu, Q., & Wang, L. (2020). The reduction of vertical food impact using adjacent surface retaining zirconium crowns preparation technique: a 1-year follow-up prospective clinical study. Annals of Translational Medicine, 8(16), 1019–1019. https://doi.org/10.21037/ATM-20-5582
2. Nagarsekar, A., Gaunkar, R., & Aras, M. (2016). Knowledge, attitude, and practice of dental professionals regarding the effect and management of food impaction associated with fixed partial denture prostheses: A survey. Journal of Indian Prosthodontist Society, 16(4), 372–379. https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-4052.191286 

 

What are dental crowns and what are they for?

Dental crowns are caps that cover over your tooth. It can be used to restore the shape, size, strength and appearance of your tooth. There are various reasons for getting a new dental crown, such as: 

1. To restore a broken tooth
2. To protect a tooth weakened by decay to prevent further damage
3. To hold a cracked tooth together 
4. To cover a stained or discoloured tooth 
5. To cover a tooth with a large filling which doesn’t have much tooth left
6. For cosmetic reasons 

Read more on how dental crowns help with a cracked tooth.

How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns can last about 10 - 15 years. How long a crown can last largely depends on the amount of wear and tear of the crown, and how well you care for the crown with good oral hygiene habits. Other factors like grinding or clenching teeth, or using your teeth to open things can also affect how long your dental crown lasts.

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How do I care for my new dental crown? 

Floss and Brush

To prolong the lifespan of your new dental crown, remember to floss and brush regularly. When brushing your teeth, pay close attention to the crown and the teeth around it. 

Go for routine dental cleaning

Make appointments for regular dental checkups with your dentist for routine dental cleaning. 

Wear a mouthguard 

If you play sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and prevent damage. 

Avoid bad habits 

Avoid using the tooth with the crown to bite down on hard foods like nuts and seeds. Also avoid using your teeth as a tool to open packaging. Grinding or clenching of your teeth is also not recommended if you want your new crown to last longer. 

What problems may occur with a dental crown? 

Discomfort or Sensitivity

You may feel some sensitivity or discomfort when the anaesthesia for the new crown wears off. If the tooth with the crown has an intact nerve, you may feel some sensitivity to hot or cold foods. In this case, you may want to use toothpaste specifically meant for sensitive teeth.

There might also be pain when you bite down, and this normally signifies that the crown is too high on the tooth. In this case, you may wish to visit your dentist to fix the issue. 

Chipping and cracking

Crowns made from porcelain or porcelain fused to metal may chip. If it is just a small chip, the dentist can use composite resin to repair the chip. If the chipping is substantial, the crown may need to be replaced.

Loosening of the crown 

The cement may be washed off from under the crown, which causes the crown to loosen. Be careful as this may allow bacteria to seep in and cause decay to the tooth. Contact your dentist to fix your crown if it is loose.

Crown falling off 

Crowns may fall off for various reasons such as decay of the tooth or loosening of the crown. If the crown comes off completely, clean the crown and also the tooth that the crown was covering. You may wish to replace the crown temporarily using dental adhesive or temporary tooth cement. However, you should also visit your dentist to re-cement the crown in place properly or get a new crown. 

Allergic reactions 

Some metallic crowns are a mixture of metals that can cause allergic reactions in some people, but this is rare. 

When will a crown need to be replaced?

Chipping and cracking 

There may be chipping or cracking when you bite down on hard foods with your crown. If the chipping or cracking is extensive, you may have to replace your broken crown with a new one. 

Injury 

Physical trauma and injury may damage your crown, so be sure to wear mouthguards to protect your teeth when playing sports. 

Poor oral hygiene

If you want to protect your crown, you should floss and brush regularly.

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Conclusion

The key thing to remember is: always brush and floss your teeth. Good oral hygiene can go a long way in keeping your dental crown intact. If you have any issues with your new crown, seek help from your dentist. You may wish to contact Dental Designs at +65 6221 8284 for any dental issues or visit our website for more information.

References 

1. Blumer, S., Costa, L., & Peretz, B. (2019). Success of Dental Treatments under Behavior Management, Sedation and General Anesthesia. The Journal of clinical pediatric dentistry, 43(6), 413–416. https://doi.org/10.17796/1053-4625-43.6.9 
2. Lynch, C. D., Hale, R., Chestnutt, I. G., & Wilson, N. (2018). Reasons for placement and replacement of crowns in general dental practice. British dental journal, 225(3), 229–234. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2018.541 

We know that dental crowns are supposed to restore the tooth’s shape, size and appearance when there has been some damage to the tooth, but without proper care and maintenance, they can crack or chip too. 

Is it common for dental crowns to chip or crack?

A dental crown can be made of metals, porcelain-fused-to-metal, resin, ceramic or porcelain. Dental crowns do not chip that easily because they are made to be strong, but it does happen. Crowns can crack or chip when you fall down, grind your teeth, or bite down on something really hard. 

The durability of dental crowns is about 5 to 15 years or longer. However, porcelain crowns seem to be more delicate and may need to be replaced more frequently. 

Porcelain crowns can chip but if the chip is not that big, it can be repaired with resin that matches the colour of the crown. 

At Dental Designs, we use crowns made of sturdy, modern ceramic material that not only has a long track record of success with patients but allows us to conserve more tooth material during the bonding process as well. 

What are the signs that a dental crown has chipped or cracked? 

If your crown is chipped or cracked, you should know it right away. The tooth will feel jagged and there might be some pain if the natural tooth underneath still has intact nerves and blood supply (if you haven’t had a root canal). 

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What should you do if you have a chipped dental crown? 

You can evaluate your damaged tooth by checking in the mirror. If there are loose pieces, do not attempt to stick them back on your tooth. If the crown is loose, talk to a dentist as soon as possible. 

Gently rub your tongue over the injured tooth to feel for jagged edges. If the tooth feels reasonably smooth, your situation is likely not an emergency. Still, it is always advisable to seek help from the dentist when there is a problem with your crown. 

If your crown falls off completely, do not attempt to put it back on. Store the crown in a small container or plastic bag and bring it to your dentist. 

You should also avoid eating with the tooth that has the chipped crown. 

An over-the-counter pain relief medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to manage mild pain. However, if the pain is significant, or if there is tooth sensitivity or significant bleeding, you should seek help from the dentist immediately. 

Pain around your dental crown could be a sign of decay around your crown. 

Can you fix a chipped dental crown? 

Fret not, it is in fact possible to repair a chipped porcelain crown with resin. Experienced dentists can repair porcelain crowns using composite bonding. A composite material like resin can be bonded to the porcelain during this repair process. A composite is a material used in fillings and bonding. 

An alternative for small cracks or chipped crowns would be to file the crown to smoothen and polish it. This can either be temporary or permanent depending on how it looks and feels in the end, 

However, if the fracture is major, it may be impossible to repair it. In this case, you may want to do a crown replacement. 

How can I prevent my dental crown from chipping or breaking? 

There are some diets you may want to avoid to protect your dental crowns from chips such as: 

• Hard and crunchy foods – such as pretzels, seeds or nuts 
• Sticky foods – such as candy 
• Chewing on ice 
• Raw vegetables 

In addition to avoiding certain foods, you may want to avoid using your teeth as tools to open or rip things. These can damage not just your crown but also your natural teeth. 

Remember to brush and floss regularly so your dental crown lasts longer. Schedule a regular appointment about once every six months with your dentist for dental cleanings and checkups. 

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

References

1. Pjetursson, B. E., Valente, N. A., Strasding, M., Zwahlen, M., Liu, S., & Sailer, I. (2018). A systematic review of the survival and complication rates of zirconia-ceramic and metal-ceramic single crowns. Clinical oral implants research, 29 Suppl 16, 199–214. https://doi.org/10.1111/clr.13306 
2. Zhang, Y., Chai, H., Lee, J. J.-W., & Lawn, B. R. (2012). Chipping Resistance of Graded Zirconia Ceramics for Dental Crowns. Journal of Dental Research, 91(3), 311–315. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022034511434356 
3. Anusavice K. J. (2012). Standardizing failure, success, and survival decisions in clinical studies of ceramic and metal-ceramic fixed dental prostheses. Dental materials : official publication of the Academy of Dental Materials, 28(1), 102–111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dental.2011.09.012 
4. What to Avoid Eating With a Crown | Tooth Crown | Edge Dental Houston. (n.d.). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://www.edgedentalhouston.com/what-to-avoid-eating-with-a-crown/
5. Chipped Dental Crown | Penn Dental Medicine. (n.d.). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://penndentalmedicine.org/chipped-dental-crown/ 
6. Do I Need to See an Emergency Dentist for a Broken Crown? - Ohio Cosmetic Dentists Columbus Ohio. (n.d.). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://www.ohiocosmeticdentists.com/blog/do-i-need-to-see-an-emergency-dentist-for-a-broken-crown/?__cf_chl_managed_tk__=pmd_5d6840b5c9935d5f854d65dc1014672645ce35fb-1628046785-0-gqNtZGzNA3ijcnBszQt6 
7. Have a Cracked Crown? Don’t Panic! Follow these Tips | Deltona FL. (n.d.). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://souledds.com/emergency/have-a-cracked-crown-dont-panic-follow-these-tips/ 
8. What to Do If You Have a Chipped or Broken Crown | Sarasota Dentistry. (n.d.). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://www.sarasotadentistry.com/dental-blog/what-to-do-if-you-have-a-chipped-or-broken-c

Are you experiencing pain and swelling around your dental crown? You might have some tooth decay on your crown — depending on the extent of the decay, it might cause dental infection and even result in permanent loss of the tooth. 

Although crowns are usually put in place to restore a tooth’s appearance and function, tooth decay can still occur. This is because patients go back to their old habits or neglect taking care of their restored teeth, resulting in bacteria that can cause cavities. Remember — dental restorations do not guarantee you a lifetime of perfect teeth especially if you do not maintain proper oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist! 

When do I need a dental crown?

A dental crown is a customised “cap” designed to cover a patient’s entire tooth. Its functions include: 

• Restoring the tooth’s shape and size 
• Increasing the tooth’s strength 
• Enhancing the performance of the tooth, preventing it from further damage 

Your dentist may suggest you get a crown if you have: 

• Large and severe cavities that cannot be filled 
• Missing teeth that require a bridge 
• Dental implants that require coverage
• Cracked, weak or worn down teeth that cannot be restored with a dental veneer — find out more about the differences between veneers and crowns in this article. 
• Restoration and protection after a root canal treatment 
• Discoloured or badly shaped teeth

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

How do I know if my crown is infected?

Some signs of a dental crown infection include: 

• Redness at or around the site of the crown 
• Tenderness, soreness or pain around the site of the crown 
• Swelling of the gums around the crown 
• Unusual warmth around the site of the crown 
• A yellowish or greenish fluid leaking out from the crown 
• Swollen lymph nodes at the side of your neck 
• Fever 
• Bad breath or an odour from the crown 

If you experience any of these symptoms, please see your dentist immediately. In most cases, your dentist should be able to notice the infection immediately. However, if the affected area is too small to accurately detect anything, your dentist might call for an X-ray to confirm any damage to the teeth underneath. 

Is it common to get decay under a crown?

Dental crowns can get decay or be damaged due to the following reasons: 

Poor oral hygiene 

If you do not ensure proper oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, rinsing) with a crown on, then some tooth decay is hardly surprising at all. Decay stems from food left in your mouth after eating — bacteria in your mouth thrives on this! This bad bacteria over time develops an acid that attacks your enamel, causing holes within your teeth we identify as decay. 

Trauma/impact to the crown

Crowns can also be damaged over time due to trauma on the mouth or from chewing on hard food. It’s important to note that a portion of your enamel is removed in order for a crown to be placed. The newly fitted crown in some sense serves as enamel for the tooth. As such, when the crown is damaged, it is easier for bacteria to surpass the crown and get to the real tooth underneath. Additionally, because there is no way to clean the tooth directly, bacteria usually stays under the damaged crown for a prolonged period of time without the patient knowing. 

A poorly fitted crown 

A poorly fitted crown can cause bacteria buildup and aggravate tooth decay. Even without an infection, an ill-fitting crown can also lead to discomfort, causing pain when you bite down. A black line around your crown is one of the most obvious signs of crown fit problems. 

*Please note that gum pain and tenderness after a dental crown procedure is not uncommon; but please see your dentist if the pain persists for more than two weeks. 

What do I do if I have decay around my crown?

You may need to get your crown removed to treat the decay under. Depending on the extent of the decay, you may need to make a larger crown to cover the decay. At Dental Designs, this process will only take a day as we offer Same Day Crowns using CEREC technology. 

For severe cases, if the decay has spread throughout your tooth and cannot be saved, you might need to get your tooth extracted. Additionally, if the decay reaches your roots, you may require root canal treatment, a procedure that’s slightly more invasive. 

As such, do not delay seeing a dentist if you experience pain around your crown in order to arrest and stop the cause early. 

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

References 

1. Innes, N. P., Ricketts, D., Chong, L. Y., Keightley, A. J., Lamont, T., & Santamaria, R. M. (2015). Preformed crowns for decayed primary molar teeth. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2015(12), CD005512. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD005512.pub3
2. Kosyfaki, P., del Pilar Pinilla Martín, M., & Strub, J. R. (2010). Relationship between crowns and the periodontium: a literature update. Quintessence international (Berlin, Germany : 1985), 41(2), 109–126.

Patients often ask us, “Doc, what’s this black line around my dental crown? Is it dirt?” The black line isn’t a sign of dirt or age, but it could mean three things: receding gums, the material of the crown or crown fit problems. Let’s explore these causes in greater detail. 

Receding gums 

Receding gums are a condition where your gums pull back from the tooth surface, exposing the root surface of your tooth and causing your tooth to look long. It is a form of gum disease and is often caused by poor oral hygiene, vigorous tooth brushing, teeth grinding or shifting teeth. If you have receding gums, you may experience sensitivity to hot and cold food and notice some space between your teeth.

If your gums start to recede when you have a dental crown on, that black line may actually be a part of your natural tooth structure, especially if you’ve had a root canal or traumatic injury prior. Please note that regardless of material, all dental crowns are susceptible to receding gums, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly even with a crown on.

Material of the crown 

This is actually one of the most common reasons behind a black line around a dental crown. Prior to the mainstream use of porcelain crowns, dental crowns were commonly made of porcelain fused to metal. This means that the crown is made of a metal base with a porcelain cover. The black line is the junction where the tooth and crown meet — if this margin occurs near the gum line, then a dark line shows. 

In the past, porcelain fused to metal crowns were the standard for crowns due to their strength and natural appearance. Today, all-porcelain crowns and ceramic crowns can provide the same support and aesthetics minus the risk of the black line. At Dental Designs, we use metal-free dental crowns made entirely of modern ceramic materials. This allows us to conserve more tooth volume as well. 

Porcelain crowns are typically more expensive than porcelain fused to metal crowns, but they produce better results and are worth the investment in the long run.

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Crown fit problems

You can limit or stop tooth decay and gum recession with good oral hygiene — but if your crown doesn’t fit properly in the first place, all your efforts might go to waste. When a crown is not placed properly, it can make cleaning very difficult. Over time, this lack of proper cleaning can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and subsequently gum recession. 

Yes, although a crown protects natural tooth structure, decay is still possible without adequate oral hygiene. To prevent a poorly fitted crown, pick a dentist who has a good track record with dental restorations and schedule regular dental checkups.

How do I get rid of the black line around my crown?

The only way to get rid of the black line around your crown is to replace your crown entirely. The good news is that it is not a difficult process and takes just a few hours of your time. 

Here’s how it’s done: 

• Your dentist will make a slit through your crown (just to the point of tooth contact) and pop the crown off using a special tool. This breaks the bonding seal and removes the crown without damaging your underlying tooth. 
• A new impression of your teeth is taken to create your new crown. With us, this process includes using a 3D CEREC scanner to create a 3D model of your teeth, using the CEREC software to create the shape of your new crown, milling your crown in our in-house lab and finally hand painting it so it looks realistic. Everything is done on the same day. 
• You might experience some gum tenderness and soreness after the procedure, but this is normal and should resolve in 2 weeks. 

Many patients find that with their new crown, they look a lot younger and healthier. Your teeth play a huge role in your smile and appearance; if you don’t like the way your crowns look or are looking for a smile makeover, we can help!

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

References 

1. Chowdhuri, M. A., Xia, Z., & Yu, D. (2011). A study on optimal bonding angles of bi-material interfaces in dental crowns with porcelain fused to metal. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part H, Journal of engineering in medicine, 225(7), 657–668. https://doi.org/10.1177/0954411911401781
2. Bluma, E., Vidzis, A., & Zigurs, G. (2016). The influence of fixed prostheses on periodontal health. Stomatologija, 18(4), 112–121.

Many are afraid of going to the dentist as they worry their experience will be a painful and uncomfortable one. We’ve come a long way with dentistry; thanks to the use of anaesthesia and sedation, dental treatments are no longer as uncomfortable as they used to be. The same applies to getting dental crowns. 

The process of getting dental crowns is relatively simple, and the crown itself can significantly improve your oral health if you ever need one. 

Who needs a dental crown?

Your dentist will recommend you get a dental crown if you have a damaged tooth that regular filling cannot solve. Badly decayed teeth and chipped and cracked teeth are just some examples. Crowns are usually also recommended following a root canal treatment, as the treated tooth will be more fragile and require protection. 

When choosing your crown, several factors including cost, strength and durability of the crown will be considered. If you are getting a crown for a tooth that shows when you smile (non-molar), your dentist will most likely recommend a tooth coloured porcelain crown or ceramic crown. 

Apart from fitting well with your natural teeth, other factors to keep in mind when selecting a material include: 

• Position of your gum tissue 
• Function of the tooth that requires the crown e.g. if it’s a molar, you’ll probably want to select a material that can withstand heavy chewing forces like Zirconia
• How much natural tooth or enamel is there left 
• Colour of your surrounding teeth 

At Dental Designs, all our crowns are made in-house from genuine, modern ceramic materials. Each crown is designed, hand painted and polished individually to ensure it meets the highest level of standards.

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

How long does it take to put a crown on a tooth? 

With a traditional dental crown, you’ll need to visit your dentist’s office twice and put on a temporary dental crown. The entire process might take about two weeks. 

Today, you can get Same Day Crowns and have your crowns designed and placed in a day at Dental Designs Clinic Singapore. Here’s how it works: 

• The dentist takes digital impressions of your mouth and teeth. 
• Using this data, the dentist uses a 3D scanner (CEREC CAD/CAM software) to create a 3D model of your teeth and shape of your crown, taking into account biting forces and how the crown fits with your neighbouring teeth. You may have to wait for about 1-2 hours. 
• Once the crown is ready, your dentist bonds it into place. Please note that for the crown to fit well, some of your tooth structure must be removed. 
• Review Check a week later to make sure that everything went well, and you are comfortable with the crown like your own tooth

Does it hurt to have dental crowns?

You may experience: 

Discomfort 

While you shouldn’t experience a great deal of pain when dental crowns are placed, some discomfort is normal and expected. During the procedure, infected areas of the tooth are removed through dental drilling. This drilling is typically what causes discomfort as the roots of the tooth are exposed now that the infected areas are removed. Your dentist will then place the crown on top to seal off the tooth and stop the infection. If you are afraid, speak to your dentist about anaesthesia options. 

Gum tenderness and soreness 

After the procedure, you may experience some feelings of tenderness and soreness along your gum line. This is due to the edges of the crown running into the gums causing inflammation, but any soreness should not last longer than 2 weeks. To help with the pain, try using ice packs, cold compresses and pain medication. Talk to a dentist if you're experiencing a lot of pain following a crown procedure, or if you have pain that doesn't go away after 2 weeks

In rare cases, pain from dental crowns are due to: 

Tooth decay and infection under the crown 

This usually happens if old infections were not removed entirely prior to placing the crown, or if a new cavity forms at the border of the tooth and affects the nerve. 

A fractured tooth or crown 

A fractured tooth or crown can cause mild pain and sensitivity to cold, heat or air. If your crown is broken or loose, please have it fixed. 

Receding gums 

If the gums around your crowned tooth have receded, you might experience pain and sensitivity. Receding gums are caused by brushing too hard and can lead to plaque build-up and gum disease. 

Improper fitting of the crown 

If your crown doesn’t fit properly, it can cause pain when you bite or smile. Dental crowns should adjust into your bite like your other teeth. If your bite does not feel right, it could lead to jaw pain and headaches.

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

References 

1. Penteado, M. M., Tribst, J., Dal Piva, A. M., Ausiello, P., Zarone, F., Garcia-Godoy, F., & Borges, A. L. (2019). Mechanical behavior of conceptual posterior dental crowns with functional elasticity gradient. American journal of dentistry, 32(4), 165–168.
2. Duan, Y., & Griggs, J. A. (2015). Effect of elasticity on stress distribution in CAD/CAM dental crowns: Glass ceramic vs. polymer-matrix composite. Journal of dentistry, 43(6), 742–749. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdent.2015.01.008

If you have a tooth that’s chipped, cracked or damaged in some way that normal fillings or dental veneers cannot restore, then dental crowns could be an excellent option. There are many advantages to dental crowns, but as with every treatment in dentistry, this restorative procedure comes with its own set of disadvantages as well depending on whether it’s suited for you.

What are dental crowns?

Let’s start off by briefly covering what dental crowns are. Dental crowns are prosthetic devices that cap over and cover cracked, discoloured, decayed or misaligned teeth. They are also commonly used to protect a vulnerable tooth after root canal treatment or to restore dental implants, another procedure that helps restore missing teeth.

Do not confuse dental tooth crowns with veneers. While both serve to improve your smile, crowns carry added functional purposes that veneers do not. You may read more on the differences between dental crowns and dental veneers here.

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

Advantages of dental crowns

The main advantages of dental crowns include:

Improve the appearance of your teeth

Dental crowns can help reshape and improve the colour of your teeth. With advances in restorative dentistry like CEREC technology, crowns are now custom made according to your unique face shape, bite and natural teeth. Patients can also choose from their desired material, with the most popular being porcelain crowns and ceramic crowns due to their lifelike appearance. Porcelain crowns are also much more stain-resistant compared to white filling or composite. The best part? You can get your crowns on the same day (same day crowns) with the same amount of quality without waiting 2 weeks and the need for a temporary crown.

Protection and support

As aforementioned, both veneers and crowns do a good job in correcting any cosmetic flaws on your teeth. But if your need for dental restoratives stem from bigger issues like tooth decay, then crowns can provide the help veneers cannot. Think of dental crowns as tooth-shaped hats — because of the protection it gives the weak tooth, the tooth can gain its strength back without becoming further damaged. Crowns can also protect a tooth from further decay. This explains why dental crowns are often put in place after someone undergoes root canal treatment.

Restoration

Dental crowns can be used to restore a tooth back to its original size and shape. In fact, this type of restoration is necessary when all the teeth are not coming together as they should as not fixing it could lead to biting issues down the road. With crowns, the patient can have a fully functioning mouth and eat and speak normally.

Comfortable

When placed over teeth, dental crowns will not shift, unlike dentures which tend to have some movement. This means crowns are a lot more comfortable compared to dentures. In addition, crowns are often used to cover dental implants, which are dental prostheses used to replace missing teeth.

Long lasting

Studies show that dental crowns last longer than any other dental restoration, with an average lifespan of 5-15 years. Why this big gap? There’s a lot of factors that come into play. Our article on the longevity of dental crowns will explain more.

Disadvantages of dental crowns

Destruction

To prepare a tooth for a dental crown, some filing down is needed to get the tooth into the right shape. This process is often extensive and irreversible — so once a tooth is prepared for a crown, it WILL need the crown and there’s no going back.

Mild discomfort

Some patients may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold shortly after the procedure, but this is not uncommon. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help reduce this. Some patients may also experience pain or sensitivity when biting down, but this is usually caused by a crown that’s too high which obstructs the teeth on the opposite jaw. Adjusting the height of the crown at your dentist can easily solve this issue.

Poor fitting

In some patients, the crown can become loose or even fall off completely, exposing the tooth to bacteria and potentially resulting in tooth decay. However, this only happens if your crown is done by an inexperienced or negligent dentist.

Expensive

Dental crowns tend to be more expensive compared to other tooth restorations which may put some patients off. But we encourage patients to see this as long term investments for their teeth, and a one-time procedure is better than multiple treatments or even running the risk of losing their affected tooth entirely.

To sum up…

It’s up to you to weigh the pros and cons of dental crowns, but we recommend discussing your options with your dentist to ensure you get the best possible treatment. If you need any advice, our dentists are happy to help.

Find out more about Dental Crown with Dental Design today!

References

1. Wingo K. (2018). A Review of Dental Cements. Journal of veterinary dentistry, 35(1), 18–27. https://doi.org/10.1177/0898756418755339
2. Mitchell, C. A., & Orr, J. F. (2005). Engineering properties and performance of dental crowns. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part H, Journal of engineering in medicine, 219(4), 245–255. https://doi.org/10.1243/095441105X34248

Dental crowns are often used to help cover dental issues, such as cracked teeth, gaps, crooked teeth and discolouration. In the past, getting dental crowns used to be a rather tedious and complicated process with an average waiting time of 2 weeks. Today, thanks to CEREC technology, you can get same day crowns or CEREC crowns, which basically means your dental crowns are designed and fitted on the same day.

How do Same Day Crowns work?

Same day crowns use CEREC technology, which allows the dentist to create your crowns at a much-accelerated rate compared to traditional dental crowns. Albeit fast, dental crowns created with the help of CEREC are more accurate and personalised as the technology takes into consideration factors like your bite and how the crown fits into your neighbouring teeth.

Here’s how it works:

• After examining your teeth and gums, your dentist will confirm a crown will help with your condition. At Dental Designs, we take photos of your teeth and ensure all alternative options have been considered since dental crowns are usually irreversible.
• To prepare the crown and allow it to fit well, we would need to remove a layer of enamel from your tooth.
• Instead of traditional dental moulds which can be extremely uncomfortable, we then use a 3D CEREC scanner to create a 3D model of your teeth. The images are then loaded onto a program which allows us to start creating your crown immediately.
• Next, the CEREC machine creates your crown using strong, durable ceramic that’s matched to the colour, shape and size of your neighbouring teeth.
• At this stage, the crown is ready to be bonded onto your tooth; but we add in quick final artistic touches to ensure your crown looks like a real tooth.
• After decontaminating your crown in a furnace, we proceed to place it onto your tooth.

How are Same Day Crowns different from traditional dental crowns?

Time and convenience

A same day crown, as its name suggests, allows you to get your crown fitted in a single appointment. This is all possible thanks to the CEREC machine. Generally, the whole process takes about 2 hours.

Traditional dental crowns, on the other hand, require more preparation and time. When a patient chooses traditional crowns, temporary crowns are put in place to protect your teeth until the lab finishes creating the crown. This can take about 2-3 weeks. In addition, temporary crowns can be rather uncomfortable and tend to shift a little in your mouth. Since they are not shaped according to your mouth and teeth, they also tend to not fit properly and can actually cause food debris to get stuck underneath, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay.

Strength, material and aesthetics

Same day CEREC crowns are made exclusively from ceramic, while traditional crowns can be made from several materials, such as metal and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Some may argue that for this reason, traditional dental crowns are still stronger. Ceramic crowns have proven to be extremely strong as well! Studies have shown that with proper maintenance and care, ceramic crowns from CEREC have the potential to last equally long as traditional crowns and may last even longer.

Besides, materials like metal and porcelain-fused-to-metal are unfortunately not as aesthetically pleasing as ceramic. As such, they might not be ideal if you are looking to get crowns on your front teeth.

Attention to detail

Same day crowns or CEREC crowns are extremely aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking. If done by an experienced dentist with a good eye for detail, CEREC crowns can look as good or even better than traditional crowns. At Dental Designs, we have our own in-house lab to ensure full quality control and inspection. Therefore, this matches the standard and quality of a traditional crown made by an expert from an external dental laboratory.

So yes, it is possible to get a dental crown in a day without compromising on quality. If you’re interested in understanding more about dental crowns first, our article on how dental crowns work may help. Otherwise, don’t be afraid to reach out and our friendly dentists are more than happy to help!

References

1. Memari, Y., Mohajerfar, M., Armin, A., Kamalian, F., Rezayani, V., & Beyabanaki, E. (2019). Marginal Adaptation of CAD/CAM All-Ceramic Crowns Made by Different Impression Methods: A Literature Review. Journal of prosthodontics : official journal of the American College of Prosthodontists, 28(2), e536–e544. https://doi.org/10.1111/jopr.12800
2. Ahrberg, D., Lauer, H. C., Ahrberg, M., & Weigl, P. (2016). Evaluation of fit and efficiency of CAD/CAM fabricated all-ceramic restorations based on direct and indirect digitalization: a double-blinded, randomized clinical trial. Clinical oral investigations, 20(2), 291–300. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00784-015-1504-6