A dental crown is a custom-made restoration placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance.
At TLC Dentists, crowns are commonly used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, fractures, or large fillings. Modern ceramic crowns are designed to blend naturally with surrounding teeth while restoring chewing strength.
Because the clinic routinely uses digital restorative workflows, crowns can often be planned and designed with exceptional precision.
A dental crown is a protective restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth.
Crowns may be recommended when a tooth is:
• cracked or fractured
• weakened by a large filling
• severely worn
• treated with root canal therapy
• cosmetically damaged
By covering the remaining tooth structure, the crown helps restore both strength and function.
Modern crowns are increasingly designed using digital dentistry technology.
At TLC Dentists, digital scanning and computer-guided crown design allow dentists to visualise the restoration before it is created.
This digital planning approach helps ensure the crown:
• fits precisely with neighbouring teeth
• aligns correctly with the patient’s bite
• restores natural tooth shape and function
The practice is led by Dr Eugene Lee, whose professional work includes teaching dentists internationally about digital dentistry and CAD/CAM restorative workflows. This experience with modern restorative systems informs how crowns are planned and delivered in everyday patient care.
Several types of crowns may be used depending on the clinical situation.
The strongest are the Tooth Helmet crowns exclusive to TLC dentists Richmond
Ceramic Crowns
All-ceramic crowns provide a natural appearance and are commonly used for visible teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are known for strength and durability.
Same-Day CEREC Crowns
Digital crown technology allows crowns to be designed and milled within the clinic, allowing some teeth to be restored during a single visit.
Learn more about same-day CEREC crowns.
Digital crown technology has changed how restorative dentistry is performed.
Using CAD/CAM systems, dentists can:
1. scan the tooth using a 3-D intraoral scanner
2. design the crown digitally
3. mill a ceramic crown from a solid block and
4. process crown in crystalliser for increased strength
5. place the crown during the same appointment
Because digital crown workflows are used routinely at TLC Dentists, many patients appreciate the ability to restore a damaged tooth efficiently without waiting weeks for laboratory fabrication.
Dental crowns often last 10–15 years or longer with proper care.
Longevity depends on factors such as:
• oral hygiene
• bite forces
• diet and lifestyle
• regular dental check-ups
Routine dental visits allow dentists to monitor the crown and surrounding tooth.
Crowns are often recommended when a tooth requires additional structural support.
Common situations include:
• protecting a tooth after root canal treatment
• restoring a severely decayed tooth
• repairing a fractured tooth
• strengthening a weakened tooth
• improving cosmetic appearance
Dental crowns provide several important benefits.
Strength
Crowns reinforce weakened teeth.
Durability
Modern ceramic materials are designed to withstand chewing forces.
Natural appearance
Ceramic crowns blend naturally with surrounding teeth.
Tooth preservation
Crowns help protect natural teeth from further damage.
The cost of a dental crown varies depending on:
• the material used
• the tooth being restored
• treatment complexity
• additional procedures required
A personalised treatment plan and cost estimate will be provided during consultation.
Average crowns cost around $2000, varying from $1200 up to $2700 for the Tooth Helmet crowns with payment plans available.
What does a dental crown do?
A crown covers and protects a damaged tooth while restoring its shape and function.
Are dental crowns permanent?
Crowns are long-lasting restorations but may eventually require replacement after many years.
Is getting a crown painful?
Local anaesthesia is used during the procedure to ensure comfort. Complete adaptation usually occurs within three weeks with only mild discomfort prior to this.
Can a crown fall off?
Crowns are very securely bonded but it and the underlying tooth structure should be assessed if they become loose.
Patients seeking crown treatment can arrange a consultation at
TLC Dentists to discuss restorative options and determine the most appropriate treatment.
