Crowns

The price depends on the material (porcelain, zirconia, metal-ceramic) and the practice. A build-up or temporary crown often comes on top.

For example with a large filling that no longer supports the tooth enough, after a root canal treatment, with a broken or heavily worn tooth, on an implant or for an aesthetic problem.

A filling repairs a hole in the tooth. A crown covers the whole visible tooth and gives extra strength. If enough healthy tooth remains, a filling is usually enough and cheaper; with large defects a crown is more durable.

On average 10 to 15 years, often longer with good care. Wear, grinding and new decay at the edge of the crown can shorten its lifespan.

Commonly used are full-ceramic or zirconia crowns (attractive and strong), metal-ceramic crowns (with a metal core) and gold or metal crowns (very durable, often on molars). The advice depends on the position in the mouth, your bite and your wishes.

Usually in two appointments: the tooth is ground down under anaesthesia, an impression or scan follows and you get a temporary crown. After 1 to 2 weeks the final crown is fixed. Some practices can make a crown in one day.

For adults, basic insurance usually does not reimburse a crown. A supplementary dental insurance often reimburses part, sometimes with a maximum or waiting period.

Keep the crown and call your dentist for an appointment as soon as possible. Do not use superglue. Keep the tooth clean and avoid chewing on that side until the crown is fixed again.