Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns to Restore Your Smile
A cracked, worn or heavily filled tooth does not have to be pulled out. A dental crown is a custom-made cap that sits over your tooth to bring back its strength, shape and natural look. At Tulip Smile, our team fits dental crowns with a calm, gentle approach, so your treatment feels relaxed from the first check to the final fit.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, sometimes called a cap, covers the whole visible part of a tooth above the gum line. It protects a tooth that is cracked, worn down or heavily filled, and it can also make a tooth look better. Each crown is shaped and colour-matched to blend in with the teeth around it.
Crowns are a common part of restorative dentistry. A dentist may suggest a dental crown when:
- a tooth has a large filling and little natural tooth is left
- a tooth is cracked, chipped or broken
- a tooth has had root canal treatment and needs extra protection
- a tooth is badly worn from grinding
- a tooth is discoloured or an odd shape
- a dental implant needs a new tooth on top
For trusted general health information, you can read about the dental crown procedure on Healthdirect Australia.
Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown
Some tooth problems are easy to feel or see. Book a check-up if you notice:
- a sharp pain when you bite down
- a tooth that feels weak or looks cracked
- a large old filling that keeps breaking
- a tooth that has darkened after a knock or injury
If a tooth breaks suddenly or hurts a lot, our emergency dentist can see you quickly and talk you through your options, which may include a crown.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are a few dental crown types, and each one suits a different need. The best choice depends on which tooth needs the crown, how much bite pressure it takes and the look you want.
| Crown type | Best suited to | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain / ceramic | Front teeth and visible smiles | Looks the most natural and matches your tooth colour |
| Porcelain fused to metal | Front or back teeth | A natural look with added strength from a metal base |
| Zirconia | Back teeth and heavy chewers | Very strong and hard-wearing, with a tooth-like colour |
| Metal / gold alloy | Back molars | Long-lasting and gentle on other teeth, but less natural in colour |
Your dentist will help you pick the right dental crown type for your tooth, your bite and your budget.
The Dental Crown Procedure,
Step by Step
The dental crown procedure usually takes two visits. Here is what to expect:
- Consultation and check. Your dentist looks at the tooth, takes X-rays if needed and talks through your options.
- Preparing the tooth. The tooth is gently shaped so the crown can fit over it, then a scan or mould is taken.
- Temporary crown. A temporary crown protects the tooth while your permanent crown is made in a dental lab.
- Fitting your crown. At your second visit, the new crown is bonded in place and your bite is checked so it feels comfortable.
Some crowns can be made faster with modern technology. Ask our team what suits your case.
Dental Crown Cost
Every tooth is different, so the dental crown cost is worked out for your case. A few things affect the dental crown price:
| What affects the cost | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Crown material | Porcelain and zirconia often cost more than metal because of the lab work and finish |
| Laboratory fees | Each crown is custom-made in a dental lab, which adds to the cost |
| Extra treatment | A tooth that needs a build-up or root canal first will add to the total |
| Tooth position | Back teeth take more bite pressure and may suit a stronger material |
Your dentist will explain the fee and give you a clear estimate before any treatment starts. If you have private health cover with dental extras, you may be able to claim part of the cost, so it is worth checking with your fund.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With good care, many crowns last well over ten years. You can help your crown last by:
- brushing twice a day and flossing daily
- avoiding hard lollies, ice and chewing on pens
- wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
- keeping your regular dental check-ups
Look after a crowned tooth like a natural tooth and it will serve you well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple slip-ups can cost you a tooth or a crown. Try to avoid these:
- Ignoring a cracked or aching tooth. A small crack can turn into a bigger, costlier problem.
- Choosing on price alone. The cheapest option is not always the best fit for your tooth.
- Skipping a crown after root canal. A treated tooth can become brittle without one.
- Chewing hard foods on a new crown. This can loosen or chip it.
- Missing check-ups. Regular visits catch small issues early.
Why Choose Tulip Smile for Dental Crowns
If you have been searching for dental crowns near me, our friendly team can help. Patients choose Tulip Smile because:
- We take a gentle, unhurried approach for nervous patients, with sedation dentistry available if you need it.
- Our clinic uses modern dental technology for a comfortable fit.
- We offer a full range of restorative dentistry and cosmetic smile design options under one roof.
- We colour-match every crown so it blends with your natural smile.
Our friendly team is happy to answer your questions before you decide.
Dental Crown FAQs
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It brings back the tooth’s strength and shape, and it is colour-matched to look natural.
How do I know if I need a dental crown?
You may need a crown if a tooth is cracked, heavily filled, worn down or has had root canal treatment. A dentist can check your tooth and let you know if a crown is the right fix.
What types of dental crowns are available?
Common dental crown types include porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, zirconia, and metal or gold alloy. Your dentist helps you choose based on the tooth, your bite and the look you want.
What happens during the dental crown procedure?
The dental crown procedure usually takes two visits. Your tooth is shaped and scanned, a temporary crown protects it, then your permanent crown is bonded in place and your bite is checked.
How long do dental crowns last?
With good care, many dental crowns last well over ten years. Brushing, flossing, avoiding hard foods and regular check-ups all help your crown last longer.
How much does a dental crown cost?
The dental crown cost depends on the material, the laboratory fees and whether the tooth needs extra work first. Your dentist gives you a clear estimate before treatment starts.
Do you offer dental crowns near me?
Yes. Tulip Smile welcomes new and existing patients for dental crowns and a full range of other dental treatments. Call our team to book a consultation.
Can I claim a dental crown on my health fund?
If you have private health cover with dental extras, you may be able to claim part of the dental crown cost. The amount depends on your level of cover, so check with your fund.
Contact Us
At Tulip Smile, we are here to help with all your oral health needs. We understand that some people are stressed or anxious about visiting the dentist, and we prioritise your comfort and well-being every time you visit.
Contact us at (02) 4872 2186 to learn more about the dental treatments we offer and how we can assist you.