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Care · Dental crowns

A strong, natural-looking crown.

A crown restores the shape and strength of a cracked, worn or heavily filled tooth, so you can bite and chew with confidence.
  • Digital scan, no impression trays
  • Usually two appointments
  • Colour-matched to your teeth

When a crown helps

Why you might need a crown

  • A cracked or broken tooth
  • A tooth with a large or failing filling
  • A back tooth after root canal treatment
  • A badly worn tooth
  • A misshapen or discoloured tooth
  • A tooth replaced with a dental implant

Materials

Choosing the
right material

We’ll recommend the material that suits the tooth, where it sits in your mouth, and how you bite.

Your treatment

How a crown is made

Most crowns take two appointments, a couple of weeks apart.

Risks and limitations

What to consider

Every treatment has benefits and risks. These are the main ones to know about.
  • Sensitivity after the tooth is prepared, which usually settles
  • The tooth underneath can still decay at the edge of the crown if it isn’t cleaned well
  • Occasionally the nerve becomes inflamed and root canal treatment is needed
  • Crowns can chip or come loose over time
  • Preparing a tooth for a crown removes some tooth structure, which can’t be undone

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. We’ll talk through the ones that apply to you before anything goes ahead, and you’re always welcome to get a second opinion.

Costs

You’ll get a written, itemised plan before anything goes ahead. Interest-free payment plans, Q Card, Southern Cross Easy-claim and WINZ quotes are available.

Questions

Your questions, answered

Still wondering about something? Give us a call on 09 570 2823 or email reception@classicsdental.com, and we’ll get back to you.

How long does a crown last?

Many years with good care. How long depends on the tooth, your bite, grinding and how well it’s cleaned.

Does getting a crown hurt?

The tooth is numbed first, so it feels much like having a filling. It may feel a little tender for a few days afterwards.

Will it look natural?

Yes. We match the shade to your neighbouring teeth, and modern tooth-coloured materials blend in well.

Could I have a filling instead?

Sometimes. If enough healthy tooth remains, a filling may be enough. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each in your plan.

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