
Johnstown Dental Practice

Dental Crowns
Protect, Strengthen and Restore Your Teeth
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, strength, function, and appearance. Crowns are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to smile, eat, and speak with confidence.
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At our practice, we provide high-quality, individually crafted crowns that are designed to blend beautifully with your natural smile while protecting your teeth for many years to come.
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What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, sometimes referred to as a "cap", completely covers the visible part of a tooth above the gum line.
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Crowns are used to strengthen teeth that have become weakened or damaged and can also improve the appearance of misshapen or heavily restored teeth.
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Each crown is custom-made to ensure a comfortable fit and a natural appearance.
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When Is a Crown Recommended?
A crown may be the best treatment if:
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A tooth has a large filling and there is not enough healthy tooth remaining.
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A tooth has fractured or become weakened.
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A tooth has undergone root canal treatment and requires additional protection.
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A worn tooth needs restoring.
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A tooth is severely discoloured or misshapen.
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A dental implant requires its final restoration.
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An existing crown has become damaged or worn and needs replacing.
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We will always assess whether a crown is the most appropriate treatment or whether a more conservative option is suitable.
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The Crown Procedure
Treatment is usually completed over two appointments.
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First Appointment
During your first visit we will:
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Examine the tooth and take any necessary X-rays.
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Prepare the tooth by carefully shaping it to allow space for the crown.
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Take a precise impression of the tooth.
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Record the shade of your natural teeth so the crown blends seamlessly with your smile.
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Fit a temporary crown to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made.
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Second Appointment
At your second visit:
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The temporary crown is removed.
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The fit, colour, and bite of your new crown are carefully checked.
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Once you and your dentist are happy with the result, the crown is permanently bonded into place.
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What Are Crowns Made From?
Modern crowns are available in a range of materials.
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Depending on the location of the tooth and your individual needs, your crown may be made from:
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All-ceramic porcelain for excellent aesthetics.
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Zirconia for outstanding strength and appearance.
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Porcelain bonded to metal in certain clinical situations.
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We will recommend the most suitable material based on the tooth being restored and your treatment goals.
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Will My Crown Look Natural?
Yes. Modern dental crowns are carefully colour matched to your surrounding teeth and individually crafted to provide a natural appearance.
Our aim is for your crown to blend seamlessly into your smile while restoring full function.
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Looking After Your Crown
Although a crown cannot decay, the tooth underneath can still develop decay or gum disease if it is not cared for properly.
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To help your crown last as long as possible:
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Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
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Clean carefully between your teeth using floss or interdental brushes.
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Attend regular dental examinations and hygiene appointments.
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Avoid chewing excessively hard objects such as ice or pens.
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With good care, many crowns provide excellent service for many years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does having a crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed with local anaesthetic during preparation, making the procedure comfortable. Some mild sensitivity afterwards is normal and usually settles quickly.
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How long do crowns last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, crowns commonly last 10–15 years or longer, although their lifespan varies depending on the tooth, biting forces, and home care.
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Will I have a temporary crown?
Yes. In most cases, a temporary crown is placed after your first appointment to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made by the dental laboratory.
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Can a crown come off?
Although uncommon, crowns can occasionally become loose. If this happens, contact the practice as soon as possible. Avoid attempting to glue it back yourself.
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Book a Crown Consultation
If you have a broken tooth, a large filling, have recently completed root canal treatment, or would like to improve the appearance of a damaged tooth, we would be pleased to help.
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Our team will assess your tooth, explain all available treatment options, and recommend the most appropriate restoration to protect your smile for years to come.
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