A dental crown (sometimes referred to as a 'cap') is a full cover that is placed over a tooth or an implant abutment. The crown forms the full shape and colour of the missing or restored tooth. It can be made from metal (usually a gold alloy), porcelain, or a combination of porcelain over gold. Given the high quality of the materials and techniques available today, a crown can appear to look very natural and be almost impossible to differentiate from the other real teeth in a patient's mouth.
Porcelain crowns are used when the final cosmetic result is paramount, and gold-based crowns are used when longevity of the crown is of the highest importance. Different crowns will provide different cosmetic and functional results (and longevity) and if you require a crown, we will always ensure you are advised of the most appropriate option for your treatment.