Dental Crown

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, function, and appearance.

You may need a dental crown if you have a tooth with a large cavity, a cracked or broken tooth, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, or for cosmetic improvements.

At Happy Dentistry, we offer high-quality porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia crowns that match your natural tooth colour, providing durability and aesthetic results.

Typically, getting a dental crown requires two visits: one for preparing the tooth and taking impressions, and another to fit and cement the crown. Each appointment usually takes 30–60 minutes.

Yes, it’s possible for a tooth to decay under a dental crown if bacteria get underneath it. This can happen if the crown becomes loose, if there’s gum recession, or if proper brushing and flossing aren’t maintained. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and professional cleanings are the best ways to prevent decay under a crown.

Dental crowns can last 10–15 years or longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

To keep your dental crown healthy and long-lasting, brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, paying special attention to the gumline around the crown to prevent plaque buildup. Floss carefully once a day to remove food particles between the crown and nearby teeth without tugging too hard. Try to avoid biting directly into hard foods such as ice, nuts, or hard candies, and instead cut firm foods like apples into smaller pieces before eating. It’s also best to use an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your gums clean and reduce bacteria without affecting the bonding of the crown. Regular dental check-ups every six months will help your dentist monitor the crown and ensure your entire mouth stays healthy for years to come.

Yes, a dental crown can protect and restore a cracked tooth, preventing further damage and preserving your natural tooth.

Not always. A root canal is only needed if the tooth is infected, severely decayed, or has nerve damage. Many crowns are placed on healthy teeth that don’t require root canal treatment. Your dentist will assess your tooth’s condition with X-rays before recommending the right treatment.

Ideally, there should be no visible gap between your crown and gum line. A well-fitted crown should sit snugly against your tooth to protect it from bacteria. If you notice a space or food trapping near the edge, it could mean the crown needs adjustment or replacement. Regular dental visits help detect and fix such issues early.

Generally, there should be at least 2 millimetres of healthy tooth structure above the gum line to properly support a crown. If there isn’t enough tooth structure left, your dentist can build up the tooth using core filling material or place a post inside the root for extra support. In cases where the tooth can’t be saved, a dental implant or bridge may be recommended as a long-term solution.

There’s no strict limit — a dentist can place multiple crowns during one visit, depending on your comfort and the complexity of the treatment. Some patients have two or three crowns done at once, while full-mouth restorations may be planned across several appointments for precision and healing time.