Teeth Capping Fact Sheet

The objective

Teeth capping - or ‘crowns’ - is a way of artificially restoring chipped or broken teeth to strengthen them and recreate a natural look, by using a special ‘cap’ which is fixed over the remaining tooth. The ‘cap’ is normally made from porcelain fused to metal (often precious), although there are a number of types of crowns, including all-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns.

The procedure

The procedure normally involves two appointments and can be carried out under local anaesthetic, taking up to 30 minutes at each.

The dentist will anaesthetise the gum and tooth root to prepare it for the crown. This is done by filing the outer surface of the tooth down to make a strong base. An impression of the tooth will then be made and the shade of it matched, so that the crown can be prepared and can fit well to the tooth. The post of the remaining tooth will be covered with a temporary crown until the permanent one is made. At the second appointment, the crown will be fitted to the tooth with special dental cement.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the most durable, whereas all-porcelain crowns look more natural and are normally used for front teeth, though may not be as strong. All-ceramic crowns offer a metal-free alternative, which can give the strength of a bonded crown and the appearance of a porcelain crown. There are other variants available.

The outcome

Following the procedure, there should be no pain or discomfort, although sometimes the tooth can be sensitive as it adjusts.

You can normally return to work immediately and resume all activities.

Once the crown has been fixed after the second appointment, a natural-looking tooth should be the result of this procedure, depending on the materials used in the crown. They are normally permanent though can break or come loose in time and may need replacing.

The risks

There are few risks associated with teeth capping. However, complications may include temporary increased sensitivity in the tooth, or the crown coming loose.

The crown itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the crown joins the tooth. Keeping the crown clean and brushed is important to prevent this from happening.

The costs

Privately in the UK, expect to pay from around £470 per crown. Abroad, expect to pay from around £180 per crown (Hungary). Treatment is available under the NHS as long as there is a clinical need.

The availability

Teeth capping as a procedure is available at any dentist both under the NHS and privately in the UK, as well as abroad.

The popularity

Teeth capping is an extremely popular treatment and is most commonly used for the restoration of teeth that have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. However, some people may opt for crowns for other reasons, such as to improve the appearance of teeth with discoloured fillings, protection of a root filling, or to help hold a bridge or denture firmly in place.