Dental Crowns in East Finchley: A Complete Guide

A dental crown is a custom made cap that fits over the entire tooth down to the gum line. It is usually the best option when a simple filling cannot restore the tooth. Seek treatment if the tooth is badly decayed, cracked, or has had root canal treatment, which can leave it fragile. Crowns can also improve appearance for a misshapen or badly discoloured tooth. Many people in Finchley and North London choose a crown to support a dental bridge or cover a dental implant, delivering a complete restoration. With proper care, a well made crown can last ten to fifteen years.

Getting a crown usually needs two visits to our Finchley practice. The first visit, about 60 to 90 minutes, covers tooth preparation. We numb the area, then reshape the tooth to create space for the crown. Next, we take a precise digital scan or impression of the prepared tooth and send it to the lab where your custom crown is made. You will wear a temporary crown to protect the tooth. About two weeks later, you return for the second appointment, which typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. We remove the temporary crown and permanently bond your new crown, checking fit and bite.

All porcelain or all ceramic crowns give the most natural look and are an excellent choice for front teeth. They can be colour matched to surrounding teeth. While they look good, they are best in areas with less biting force. A modern option, E max crowns, are made from lithium disilicate ceramic and offer strong aesthetics and durability compared with traditional porcelain.

For back teeth like molars, strength matters. Zirconia crowns are very strong, chip resistant, and can be colour matched to your teeth, making them a durable option. Porcelain fused to metal crowns have a metal core for strength with a porcelain outer layer for appearance. They are durable but can show a thin metal line near the gum over time. We will discuss which material suits your needs and budget during your consultation.

After your final appointment, it's normal to have some mild sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days, which you can manage with over the counter pain relief. For the first 24 hours, avoid very hard or sticky foods to let the cement set. Long term care is simple: treat the crown like a natural tooth. Brush twice daily, floss daily, and attend regular check ups. While the crown itself can't decay, the tooth underneath can, so good oral hygiene remains important. If you have persistent pain, a loose crown, or a chip, call our practice during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). For emergencies outside hours, go to A&E or call 111.

While crowns work well, there are alternatives depending on the damage. For less severe problems, a large filling or an onlay (partial crown) may suffice. An onlay covers just the cusp of the tooth, preserving more natural tooth structure than a full crown. For cosmetic issues on front teeth, porcelain veneers are another option. Veneers are thin shells that bond to the front of the tooth. If a tooth is too damaged to save, extraction followed by a dental implant or a bridge may be considered. We will discuss all suitable options with you.

To make an informed choice, here are key questions to ask any provider at our Finchley practice or elsewhere. Start by asking which material they recommend for your tooth and why. Also ask how long they expect the crown to last. Find out what the total cost covers, including the temporary crown and all appointments. Inquire about the guarantee or warranty for the lab work. Finally, ask to see before and after photos of similar cases to feel confident in your decision.

As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatments. The cost of a private dental crown in London typically ranges from £600 to over £1,200 per tooth, depending on material and case complexity. For example, a porcelain fused to metal crown is often more affordable than a full zirconia or E max crown. Our fees are transparent and explained in a personalised treatment plan with no hidden costs. We accept private dental insurance from providers including Denplan, Max Bupa, and Cigna. Please contact us to discuss your coverage and get a detailed quote.