Prosthodontics (Crowns, Bridges & Dentures)
Dental crown
A custom cap that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth.
Purpose
Protect a tooth
Visits
Usually two
Anaesthetic
Local
Lifespan
Often 10+ years
Overview
A dental crown fits over the whole top part of a tooth, restoring its shape, strength and appearance. It is often used when a tooth is heavily filled, cracked or has had root canal treatment.
The tooth is shaped, an impression or scan is taken, and a crown is made to match your other teeth. A temporary crown usually protects the tooth while the final one is made.
What to know
- Protects a weak or cracked tooth from breaking further
- Restores chewing strength and a natural look
- Usually needs two visits, or one if made in-clinic
- Made from porcelain, ceramic or metal-bonded materials
Common questions
Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed first, so you should feel little more than pressure during shaping.
How long does a crown last?
With good care many crowns last well over ten years, though this varies.
Will the crown look natural?
Porcelain and ceramic crowns are colour-matched to blend with your other teeth.
Can a crowned tooth still decay?
Yes — the edge where crown meets tooth can still decay, so keep brushing and cleaning between the teeth (floss, an interdental brush or a water flosser) well.
Why might I need a crown after a root canal?
A root-treated tooth becomes brittle, and a crown helps stop it cracking.
Having this treatment?
See your step-by-step journey →
Related topics
Post & core / build-up
A support built inside a root-treated tooth to hold a crown securely.
Inlay / onlay
A custom-made filling that repairs a tooth when a normal filling is not enough.
Dental bridge
A fixed way to replace one or more missing teeth using nearby teeth for support.
Caring for new & temporary restorations
How to protect new fillings, crowns and temporary work while they settle.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026