If you have a damaged, weakened, or discoloured tooth, a dental crown could be the perfect solution to restore both its strength and appearance. At Mentone Smiles, we provide high-quality, custom-made dental crowns that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth, offering both functionality and aesthetics.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about dental crowns, including their benefits, types, procedure, costs, and how they can improve your oral health and confidence.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It fully encases the visible part of the tooth, providing durability and long-term protection.
Common Reasons for Getting a Dental Crown
To restore a broken, cracked, or worn-down tooth.
To protect a weak tooth from further damage
To cover and strengthen a tooth after a root canal treatment.
To improve the appearance of a severely discoloured or misshapen tooth.
To support a dental bridge or cover a dental implant.
Types of Dental Crowns
At Mentone Smiles, we offer different types of crowns to suit your needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
1. Porcelain Crowns (All-Ceramic)
Best for front teeth due to their natural appearance.
Highly aesthetic and stain-resistant.
Ideal for patients with metal allergies.
2. Zirconia Crowns
Extremely strong and durable—perfect for molars.
Offers a natural look with enhanced strength.
Resistant to wear and fractures.
3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Aesthetic and durable – a combination of metal strength and porcelain beauty.
Stronger than all-porcelain crowns, making them great for back teeth.
Long-lasting with proper care.
4. Metal Crowns (Gold or Silver Alloys)
Exceptionally durable – withstands heavy chewing forces.
Best for back molars, where aesthetics are less of a concern.
Less prone to chipping or breaking.
5. Composite Resin Crowns
Affordable option, often used for temporary crowns.
Not as durable as porcelain or metal crowns.
Ideal for short-term restorations.
The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect
At Mentone Smiles, getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments:
Step 1: Consultation & Tooth Preparation
Your dentist will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and discuss the best crown option.
The tooth is shaped and prepared, with damaged parts removed.
An impression is taken to create a custom-fitted crown.
A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
Step 2: Crown Placement
After 1-2 weeks, your permanent crown is ready.
The dentist will remove the temporary crown and check the fit of the new one.
The crown is then bonded securely in place using dental cement.
Final adjustments are made for a comfortable bite.
Same-Day Crowns: In some cases, we may offer CEREC same-day crowns, allowing you to get a permanent crown in just one visit.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10-15 years or more. Factors affecting longevity include: Good oral hygiene – Brushing twice daily and flossing around the crown.
Avoiding hard foods – No chewing on ice, pens, or hard candies.
Regular dental check-ups – Detecting early signs of wear or issues.
Wearing a mouthguard – If you grind your teeth at night.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost in Melbourne?
The cost of dental crowns in Melbourne depends on the material and complexity of the case.
Porcelain & Zirconia Crowns: $1,500 - $2,500 per tooth.
Metal Crowns: $1,200 - $2,000 per tooth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: $1,300 - $2,300 per tooth.
Health Insurance: Some private health insurance plans cover part of the cost, depending on your level of extras cover. Mentone Smiles offers flexible payment plans to make treatment affordable.
Restore Your Smile with a Custom Dental Crown at Mentone Smiles
At Mentone Smiles, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, durable, and natural-looking dental crowns tailored to your needs. Whether you need a crown for protection, restoration, or cosmetic enhancement, our expert team is here to help.