Crowns, Inlays & Onlays

Here at Westbury Dental Care and Implant Centre, we offer dental crowns, onlays and inlays.  Dental crowns are predominantly used on patients who have damaged, crooked our cracked teeth with the aim here being to restore the anatomical shape, aesthetics and impaired function.  The most common type of crowns we use are Ceramic and Metal.  However, we also offer inlays – that only cover the cusp of the tooth – and on-lays that are particularly beneficial for teeth with cavities.

Dedicated to dental excellence, creating healthy brighter smiles.

What is a crown?

A crown is a “cap” placed over a damaged tooth and held in place by dental cement.  Crowns can be fitted where a tooth has been broken, damaged or decayed.  Crowns can be made from gold and metal alloys, acrylic, porcelain and ceramic.  Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth.  Metal alloys are generally stronger than porcelain and may be recommended for back teeth.

What is the procedure for placing a crown?

The suitability for a crown is assessed and thereafter your dentist will advise on material choices, treatment sequence and any other concerns you may have.

At the second appointment, the teeth to be crowned are prepared.  This involves reduction of the tooth size (sometimes under local anesthesia) followed by a mould of the prepared tooth.  This trimming of the tooth is required to create space for the crown to be fitted.  The mould taken is then sent to a laboratory where skilled technicians will fabricate the crown.  In the meantime, a temporary crown is made and fitted onto the trimmed tooth.

At the next appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the tooth surfaces cleaned.  The completed crown is tried on the tooth for fit, harmony with the bite, and appearance.  Finally, the crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth with dental cement.

When is a crown required?

Your dentist may recommend a crown to:

  • Replace a large filling when there isn’t enough ‘tooth’ remaining.
  • Protect a weak tooth from fracturing.
  • Restore a fractured tooth.
  • Attach a bridge.
  • Cover a dental implant.
  • Cover a discoloured or poorly shaped tooth.
  • Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment.

Dedicated to dental excellence, creating healthy brighter smiles.

The most vulnerable portion of the crown is the margin between tooth and crown.  Regular check-ups with your dentist and hygienist are highly important and can be arranged around your busy schedule.  It’s also important to maintain and keep up with everyday good dental habits such as brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing where you can.  This can be supported with regular visits to our dental hygienist team.  Furthermore, we also recommend reducing your consumption of sticky and hard foods as crowns can be damaged just like normal teeth.

Contact Westbury Dental Care and Implant Centre

Whether you have damaged teeth or cavities, we can provide the best dental treatments that help restore and rejuvenate your smile.  Our clinic provides a comfortable and relaxed environment to help you feel at ease and full of confidence. We welcome young children to mature adults, providing exceptional care at affordable prices.  For more information from our team or to book your initial consultation with us today, please get in touch with us directly on 020 8942 8943.  We are very flexible and it’s highly likely that we will be able to fit you in around your busy schedule.

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