Dental crowns are a versatile and popular dental procedure done for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. Whether you need to protect a weakened tooth, improve its appearance, or replace a missing tooth as part of an implant or bridge, crowns offer a durable and natural-looking option. Lets find out everything we need to know about dental crowns, including types, costs, and why they’re a great investment in your smile.
A dental crown, also called a "cap," is a custom-made cover that fits over the entire visible part of a damaged or weak tooth. It protects the tooth, making it stronger, and restores its shape, size, and function.
Crowns are designed to match the color and look of your natural teeth, so they blend in seamlessly with your smile. They are commonly used to fix broken or decayed teeth, support teeth with large fillings, or improve the appearance of discolored or uneven teeth. With proper care, crowns can last a long time and help keep your smile healthy and natural-looking.
You might need a dental crown in the following situations:
A dental crown restores the full function of a damaged or weakened tooth, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably without any discomfort or difficulty.
Crowns act as a protective cap for teeth that are cracked, decayed, or weakened after procedures like root canals. They prevent further damage by reinforcing the tooth structure.
Made from strong materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal alloys, crowns are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. With proper care, they can last 10–15 years or even longer.
Filling a gap left by a damaged tooth with a crown prevents neighboring teeth from shifting out of place, preserving the alignment of your bite.
With a crown, you can smile, speak, and eat with confidence, knowing your tooth is protected and your smile makeover looks natural and healthy.
Crowns help cover and seal areas of decay or damage, reducing the risk of further dental issues like cavities or infections.
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own benefits. Here are some of types of crowns done in Singapore.
Porcelain crowns are among the most popular types due to their aesthetic appeal. The cost of dental treatments, such as gold crowns, varies depending on the dental clinic you choose. The cost of a porcelain crown typically depends on several factors, including:
MediSave does not cover dental crowns as they are classified as non-surgical procedures. However, coverage through insurance companies depends on the specifics of your dental insurance plan and the reason for the crown. If the crown is medically necessary, such as to repair a decayed, cracked, or damaged tooth, many insurance plans will partially cover the cost.
On the other hand, crowns placed purely for cosmetic purposes, like improving the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth, are less likely to be covered. For patients opting for next-day crowns, the cost may include an additional charge for the temporary crown.
At Dental Designs, same day crowns are made differently because they use advanced 3D technology to design and create the custom-made crown in just one visit, usually from a ceramic block. Conventional crowns take longer because a dentist has to send your tooth impressions to a lab, make a temporary crown, and wait 1-2 weeks for the permanent one.
Same-day crowns are fast, but regular crowns can be customized more for tricky cases or front teeth. The best option depends on what you need and prefer.
The dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays, and discusses the best material for your crown.
The damaged tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown. If necessary, a filling is placed to build up the tooth.
Digital or traditional impressions are taken to create a mold of your tooth, which is used to design your custom crown.
In case of next day /conventional crowns, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
Once the permanent crown is ready, it is carefully fitted, adjusted, and bonded to the tooth with dental cement.
If a dental crown isn’t the best option for your situation, here are some alternatives:
To ensure the longevity of your crown, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Avoid biting on hard objects like ice or pens to prevent cracks or damage, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings, including scaling and polishing with specialized instruments.
If you grind your teeth, consider using a nightguard to protect your crown and overall dental health.
Dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution for restoring the health, function, and appearance of your teeth. While the cost may vary based on the material and procedure, crowns are an excellent long-term investment in your oral health. If you’re considering a dental crown, please drop us a message!