Are there alternatives to dental crowns?

Are there alternatives to dental crowns?

In the year 2024/2025, there were over 2 million crowns fitted in England. This shows just how common the treatment has become in dentistry. Crowns are one of the most widely used ways to repair and protect damaged teeth. Despite this, they might not be right for everyone. We’ll explore alternatives to help you weigh up your options.

Introduction to dental crowns

As the statistics show, dental crowns are everyday tasks for dentists. They do quite a lot of heavy lifting. But what are they?

A crown is a protective cap that is put on top of a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores strength, shape and appearance. It also means you can chew and speak comfortably again. Crowns are used for a range of reasons:

• A heavily filled tooth.
• A cracked tooth.
• A worn-down tooth.
• A tooth that has had root canal treatment.

From a patient perspective, the results are very predictable. Once it’s been fitted, it should look natural, feel solid and will blend in with the rest of your teeth. Most crowns are custom-made from porcelain, ceramic or a combination of materials. They’ll be made to match your existing teeth.

Cost-wise, crowns are in the mid-to-higher range of restorative treatments due to the lab work and precision involved. The procedure takes two appointments: one to prepare the tooth and one to fit the final crown.

In terms of aftercare, you’ll find it very straightforward. It’s a matter of good brushing, flossing and regular check-ups. If it’s well looked after, a crown can last many years.

Dental implants vs crowns

We’re often asked whether a crown or an implant is “better.” The honest answer is that they do different jobs:

• Crowns are used to protect existing teeth.
• Implants are used to replace missing teeth.

One isn’t a substitute for the other but they’re often compared because they’re both long-term solutions.

If the tooth can be saved, we’ll usually try to save it. A crown is often the simpler, faster option. Implants come into play when the tooth can’t be restored at all.

Veneers vs crowns

Veneers and crowns are often confused. This is especially when the concern is cosmetic. The difference, though, is how much of the tooth they cover:

• Veneers sit on the front surface of a tooth.
• Crowns cover the entire tooth.

This makes the crowns more suitable when strength is an issue, not just appearance.

A veneer is often the best option for a tooth that is healthy but chipped, uneven or discoloured. If it’s cracked, heavily filled or weak, the safer, long-term option is typically a crown.

READ MORE: Veneers vs dental crowns: which is right for you?

Composite bonding vs crowns

Composite bonding is very popular, and for good reason. It’s conservative, affordable and can produce beautiful results when used in the right situations.

That said, bonding and crowns are used for different things.

Bonding is great for small cosmetic tweaks. Crowns are more for serious reinforcement. We often explain it as the difference between a repair and a rebuild.

READ MORE: What are the benefits and drawbacks of dental crowns?

Final thoughts

There’s no one “best treatment.” There’s only the treatment that makes the most sense for your teeth and mouth.

Crowns are one of the most reliable options we have for restoring damaged teeth. But they’re not always the first or only solution. Sometimes, a veneer, bonding or an implant is the better route.

It’s important to get a proper consultation. Your dentist will assess your mouth and teeth and explain the options, the pros and cons and help you decide on a plan that’s right for you.

Always ask questions if you’re unsure. A good dentist will always take the time to answer them. You can book your consultation today if you’re ready to take the leap.

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