Mt GravattCracked tooth? Root Canal? Discoloured smile? Did you know that dental crowns could be the solution?
Dental crowns are one of the most common cosmetic and restorative dental treatments, designed to protect weakened teeth, restore their shape and function, and improve the overall appearance of your smile. Whether you’re dealing with damage, decay, or simply want a more confident look, crowns offer a long-lasting, natural-looking solution tailored to your needs.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap to cover an existing tooth experiencing damage, decay, or weakness. This cap completely encloses the visible part of your natural tooth above your gum line and is bonded in place by dental cement. Dental crowns are designed to restore tooth structure, shape, function, and appearance.
Most patients opt for dental crowns to:
- Strengthen teeth following large filling or root canal therapy
- Restore broken teeth
- Prevent the propagation of hairline cracks i.e. prevent the tooth from splitting
- Improve discoloured teeth
There are different types of dental crowns, including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and metal crowns. Each material has its own unique benefits depending on your needs. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are the more common choices, known for their natural tooth-like appearance, whereas zirconia crowns are known for their strength and durability. If you’re considering pursuing dental crowns, your dentist will go through all viable options with you and choose the material best suited for your needs.
At Fix Dental, we use high-quality ceramic or zirconia crowns to ensure a natural-looking smile. Our team takes the time to match the colour, shape, and size to your natural teeth for a flawless finish — so you can smile with confidence knowing your crown not only looks great but is customised to you and built to last.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
Dental crowns are designed to last, but they’re not permanent. Their full lifespan depends on each patient and how well they’re cared for. On average crowns will last 10-15 years.
Some key tips to maintain your crowns include:
- Brush and floss daily, just like with natural teeth
- Avoid parafunctional habits like crunching ice, chewing on bobby pins etc
- Avoid grinding your teeth
In order to get the most out of your crowns, it’s important to schedule regular check-ups and maintain good oral hygiene.
Are Dental Crowns Covered by Health Insurance?
Health funds will offer you a rebate on your crown depending on your level of cover. It’s important to check your policy to confirm whether or not your insurance covers dental crowns.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
In Brisbane, the cost of a dental crown procedure can vary depending on the chosen material, the dentist’s experience, and whether additional work, such as a root canal, is required.
Typically, in Brisbane, dental crowns can cost up to:
- All-ceramic/porcelain crown: $1,500–$2,000
- Gold or metal alloy crown: $1,700–$2,400
- Zirconia crown: $1,500–$2,200
At Fix Dental, however, our dental porcelain crowns are on average half the cost of other Brisbane dentists:
- Standard porcelain crowns (perfect for back teeth): $999
- Premium porcelain crowns (perfect for front teeth): $1390
We have been able to achieve these low priced crowns due to our extensive experience and the ability to source Australian-made crowns and materials at extremely low prices. We then pass these savings on to our patients rather than increase our margins.
What Is the Dental Crown Procedure?
Dental crowns are usually completed over two appointments, focusing on tooth preparation and dental crown placement.
In your first appointment, the affected tooth or teeth will be shaped and filed down to make room for the crown. If a large portion of the tooth is missing, a filling material may be used to build it up for better crown support. Once shaping is complete, your dentist will take an impression or digital scan of the tooth to make your custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed in order to protect your tooth while you wait for your custom crown.
The second appointment is all about fitting your permanent crown to your tooth. This is done carefully and comfortably — local anaesthetic is applied to the area so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during this time. When both you and your dentist are happy with the crown placement, it’s cemented into place, creating a natural-looking tooth restoration that blends in seamlessly with your smile and improves daily function.
Are Dental Crowns Painful?
While dental crowns may sound like they can hurt, in actual fact, the procedure is virtually painless. No matter where you go, your dentist will numb the area with local anaesthetic to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. While it’s normal to feel discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after, there should be no serious pain. Over-the-counter pain relief will be able to manage any discomfort you feel after the experience.
Is My Tooth Too Damaged for a Crown?
Your tooth can be damaged, but still suitable for a dental crown. Dental crowns are typically used when:
- The tooth has large fillings or fractures
- It’s had a root canal treatment
- There is severe decay, but the root is intact
- Hairline cracks have formed in the tooth
However, if the tooth is broken below the gum line or the root is compromised, your dentist might recommend an extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge instead.
What Are the Alternatives for a Dental Crown?
If a dental crown doesn’t feel right for you, your dentist may recommend these alternatives:
- Dental fillings: Suitable for smaller cavities or minor damage
- Inlays/onlays: Partial restorations for moderate damage
- Veneers: Cosmetic option for front teeth (not as durable as crowns)
- Extraction and implant: If the tooth is beyond saving
Your dentist will assess your affected tooth and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Tooth Cap vs Crown – What’s the Difference?
There actually isn’t a difference between “tooth cap” and “crown”. These terms are used interchangeably, although “crown” is the professional term used in the dental industry.
Restore Your Smile With Fix Dental
Dental crowns are a trusted solution for restoring damaged teeth, protecting dental work, and improving your smile. And at Fix Dental, we offer high-quality, fixed-price dental crowns — performed in an environment that prioritises care and comfort from the moment you walk through our doors.
If you’re considering a crown or have questions about your options, our friendly team is here to help. We offer expert advice, competitive pricing, and personalised treatment plans right here in Brisbane.
Ready to book a dental crown consultation? Contact us today and let’s protect your smile for the long run.