FIRST STEP
Assess the tooth and your options
Restorative Dentistry • Balwyn North
Porcelain Crowns
Restoring strength, function and natural tooth form.
A dental crown may be considered when a tooth has been weakened by a large filling, decay, cracking or wear. Your tooth is carefully assessed first so we can determine whether a crown or another restorative option is appropriate.
The most appropriate restorative treatment depends on the health, structure and individual requirements of your tooth.
YOUR CROWN ASSESSMENT
Considering a dental crown? We assess the tooth first.
A crown covers a prepared tooth to restore its shape and function. We assess the remaining tooth, your bite and the appearance you want before deciding whether a crown or another option is appropriate.
Tooth structure
How much sound tooth remains
Existing fillings
Large or ageing restorations
Cracks & wear
Damage and its likely cause
Your bite
How the crown will meet other teeth
Appearance
Shape · shade · neighbouring teeth
Ongoing care
Cleaning and regular review
A crown is one possible way to restore a tooth.
Your dentist will explain whether a crown, filling, onlay or another
approach suits your tooth, along with the preparation and costs involved.
YOUR TREATMENT, AT A GLANCE
Dental crowns.
A custom restoration for a tooth that needs more support or a change in shape and appearance.
WHEN CONSIDERED
Large fillings, cracks or wear
TOOTH PREPARATION
Shaped to make room for the crown
DIGITAL SCAN
Records the prepared tooth
TEMPORARY CROWN
Protects the tooth between visits
LOCALLY MADE
Custom crown made in Kew
CROWN FITTING
Appearance, fit and bite checked
ONGOING CARE
Clean the tooth and attend reviews
This is a general guide to a crown on a natural tooth. iDental usually prepares and scans the tooth, places a temporary crown, then fits the custom crown at a later visit. Your dentist will discuss the material, timing, alternatives and care that apply to your tooth.
HOW IT WORKS
What are crowns & bridges?
A crown covers a prepared tooth. A bridge uses connected restorations to replace a missing tooth or teeth.
A porcelain crown may be considered when a tooth is weakened by a large filling, cracking or wear. We assess the tooth, prepare it where appropriate and take a digital scan. A temporary crown protects it while your custom crown is made locally.
A porcelain bridge can fill a gap using neighbouring teeth for support. Those supporting teeth are assessed and generally need preparation. We will discuss whether a bridge, implant or another option suits the space and your goals.
01
Assessment
Tooth, gums and bite
02
Preparation
Digital scan and temporary restoration
03
Fitting
Check appearance, fit and bite
A bridge involves the teeth that support it. Your dentist will explain the preparation, alternatives and ongoing care before treatment. The bridge photos show one patient’s result; your outcome may differ.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Crowns & bridges FAQ.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a custom restoration that covers a prepared tooth. It can restore the tooth’s shape, appearance and chewing surface. We first assess whether the remaining tooth is suitable for a crown.
When might I need a crown instead of a filling?
A crown may be considered when a tooth has a large filling, significant wear, a crack or too little sound structure for another filling to be suitable. Your dentist will examine the tooth and explain the options before recommending treatment.
What is a porcelain bridge?
A bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It usually uses crowns on neighbouring teeth to support the replacement tooth. Those supporting teeth generally need preparation; your dentist will assess them and discuss alternatives such as an implant.
Will my tooth need to be prepared?
Yes. A natural tooth receiving a crown is shaped to make room for the restoration. A conventional bridge generally requires preparation of its supporting teeth. Your dentist will explain what would be changed and whether another approach could preserve more tooth structure.
How many appointments are involved?
At iDental, a porcelain crown usually involves a preparation and digital-scan visit, followed by a fitting visit after the crown has been made. A temporary crown is generally worn between visits. Bridge appointments depend on the design and teeth involved.
How do I look after a temporary crown?
Keep the tooth and gums clean, and avoid very sticky foods that could pull the temporary crown loose. Follow the instructions given at your appointment. Contact us if it comes off, your bite feels uncomfortable or you have a concern while waiting for the final crown.
Will the crown or bridge match my other teeth?
We consider shade, shape and bite when planning your restoration. Porcelain can be made to blend with neighbouring teeth, although the final appearance depends on your starting teeth and treatment plan. We check the fit and appearance before the final restoration is placed.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
Their lifespan varies with the condition of the supporting teeth, your bite, cleaning and habits such as grinding. Brush and clean around the restoration as instructed, including beneath a bridge, and attend regular reviews. A crown or bridge may eventually need repair or replacement.
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