When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but too healthy to remove, a crown saves it — a custom cap that restores the tooth's shape, strength and appearance.
When Is a Crown Needed?
- After root canal treatment — treated teeth become brittle and need protection
- Large cavities — when more filling than tooth would remain
- Cracked tooth — holds the tooth together and prevents the crack spreading
- Severe wear — from grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion
- On top of an implant — the visible "tooth" part
- Cosmetic reshaping — badly malformed or discoloured teeth
Crown Materials
- Zirconia — strongest ceramic, excellent for back teeth, increasingly natural-looking
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) — proven workhorse; a metal margin may show at the gumline over time
- All-ceramic (e.max) — best aesthetics for front teeth
- Gold/metal alloy — virtually unbreakable, gentle on opposing teeth; usually for back molars
The Procedure
- Preparation — the tooth is shaped under anaesthesia to make room for the crown
- Scan/impression — digital scan or mould sent to the lab
- Temporary crown — protects the tooth for 1–2 weeks
- Fitting — the final crown is checked for bite and fit, then cemented
Same-day CAD/CAM crowns are increasingly available — one visit, no temporary.
Making a Crown Last
- Brush and floss normally — decay happens at the crown margin, not under it
- Don't use it as a tool (opening packets, biting nails)
- Wear a night guard if you grind
- Well-made crowns routinely last 10–15+ years
Told you need a crown? Get a transparent treatment plan from a verified dentist on Odento.
Typical Cost in India
PFM ₹2,500–₹6,000, zirconia/all-ceramic ₹6,000–₹18,000 per crown; implant crowns sit at the higher end.
Prices vary widely by city, clinic, material and case complexity — always confirm a written estimate before starting.
Questions to Ask Your Dentist
- Which material do you recommend for this tooth and why?
- Is the tooth strong enough for a crown, or does it need a post/core first?
- How long should this crown last, and what does replacement cost?
- Same-day CAD/CAM or lab-made — what fits my timeline?
Trusted external resources
Odento procedure guides are educational, not a substitute for an examination — always consult a qualified dentist for your specific case.
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