Dental Crowns – Restore Beauty and Function to Your Smile

When is a dental crown needed? Indications for treatment
The decision on whether to have a dental crown always depends on the individual condition of your teeth and the dentist’s assessment. However, there are several typical situations where a crown is the most suitable or even the only possible solution for saving and restoring a tooth:
- Extensive damage to the tooth tissue: If the tooth is affected by deep or extensive tooth decay that cannot be adequately and reliably treated in the long term with a standard filling (filling). The crown covers the entire tooth and prevents its further decay.
- Broken or cracked tooth: Injuries or teeth grinding (bruxism) can lead to tooth fractures. A crown will strengthen the weakened structure and prevent the crack from spreading or breaking off part of the tooth.
- Tooth after endodontic treatment (root canal treatment): Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment often become more fragile and prone to breakage. A crown provides the necessary protection and reinforcement so that the tooth can continue to perform its function.
- Significant tooth wear: Whether due to age, abrasion (mechanical wear) or erosion (chemical wear), teeth can lose their original height and shape. Crowns can restore a proper bite and protect the remaining tooth tissue.
- Aesthetic reasons: If you are not satisfied with the shape, size, or color of your tooth (e.g., congenital anomalies, severe discoloration that cannot be removed by whitening), an aesthetic crown can significantly improve your smile and give it a harmonious appearance.
- Part of a dental bridge: Crowns serve as abutments for a dental bridge that replaces one or more missing teeth. They are placed on the abraded teeth adjacent to the gap.
- Dental implant coverage: After the dental implant has successfully healed into the bone, a crown is placed on it, which fully replaces the visible part of the missing tooth and restores its function and aesthetics.
At the Dobrý Dent clinic, we will always carefully evaluate your specific case, perform the necessary examinations, including digital X-rays or 3D CBCT for a comprehensive view, and propose the optimal solution for you, taking into account your needs and wishes.
Types of dental crowns – Materials and their properties
The choice of material for a dental crown is a key factor that affects its aesthetics, durability, durability and biocompatibility. At Dobrý Dent, we offer you modern and proven materials that meet the highest demands for quality and appearance:
All-ceramic crowns
They represent the pinnacle of modern aesthetic dentistry. They are made entirely of ceramics, without any metal structure. Thanks to this, they achieve excellent translucency (light transmission) and a natural appearance that perfectly imitates the properties of a natural tooth. They are an ideal choice for visible front teeth, but their strength (especially in zirconium variants) also allows them to be used in the back of the teeth.
- Advantages: Maximum aesthetics, excellent biocompatibility (does not cause allergies, does not irritate the gums), color stability, absence of a dark edge at the gum.
- Types: Lithium disilicate (e.g. E.max) – highly aesthetic, suitable for front teeth and smaller bridges; Zirconium dioxide (zirconium) – extremely strong and durable, suitable for back teeth and larger bridges, can be aesthetically layered with ceramics.
- Technology: At the Dobrý Dent clinic, we use a modern 3D intraoral scanner and CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) systems to plan and sometimes manufacture all-ceramic restorations, which ensure maximum accuracy and efficiency.
Metal-ceramic crowns
This is a traditional and still very widespread type of crown. They consist of an internal metal structure (usually an alloy of precious or base metals), which ensures strength and durability, and an external layer of fired ceramics, which gives the crown the natural color and shape of the tooth.
- Advantages: High strength and durability, proven long-term durability, good aesthetics (although not as perfect as all-ceramics), often a more affordable option.
- Disadvantages: The metal structure can sometimes show through at the neck of the tooth as a dark rim, especially when the gums recede. Metal can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. The ceramic layer can chip off under extreme stress.
Other types of crowns
- Metal crowns: Previously, all-metal crowns (e.g. gold) were used, but today they are rather in decline due to their unaesthetic appearance. Sometimes they can also be used in the back, invisible part of the teeth due to their high durability.
- Resin (composite) crowns: Usually serve as a temporary (provisional) solution while the definitive crown is being made in the laboratory. They are less durable and color-stable, so they are not suitable for long-term use.
Our team at Dobrý Dent will explain in detail the advantages and disadvantages of each material and help you choose the best option for your specific situation, taking into account the location of the tooth, your aesthetic needs and financial capabilities.
The process of making a crown at Dobrý Dent step by step
Making a dental crown is a precise process that requires careful planning and several visits to our clinic. At Dobrý Dent, we emphasize your comfort and information at every stage of treatment.
- Introductory consultation and examination: The first step is a thorough examination of the condition of the tooth and surrounding tissues. We will take digital X-rays (or 3D CBCT for more complex cases) to assess the condition of the root and bone. We will discuss your expectations, treatment options, and answer all your questions.
- Tooth preparation (grinding): In order to be able to place the crown, it is necessary to slightly grind the tooth on all sides to create space for the crown material. This step is performed under local anesthesia, and in our clinic we use the modern STA system for computer-controlled, painless anesthetic application, which ensures maximum patient comfort. To achieve the highest grinding accuracy, we work under magnification using an operating microscope. Precise preparation is key to perfect fit and long life of the crown.
- Dental impression: After grinding the tooth, it is necessary to obtain an accurate impression of the prepared tooth and the opposing dental arch. At Dobrý Dent, we prefer the modern method of digital impression using a 3D intraoral scanner. This technology is much more comfortable for the patient (there is no unpleasant feeling from impression materials in the mouth), faster and, above all, extremely accurate. The digital model of your teeth is immediately sent to the dental laboratory.
- Choice of color and shape: Together with you, we will carefully select the shade of ceramic so that the crown perfectly matches the color of your other teeth and looks as natural as possible. We will also take into account your wishes regarding the shape and size of the crown.
- Creation of a temporary crown: We will place a temporary (provisional) crown made of resin on your ground tooth. This protects the tooth from sensitivity and damage and ensures aesthetics and function until your definitive crown is made in the dental laboratory.
- Creation of a definitive crown: Based on a digital or traditional impression and your specifications, our experienced dental technicians will make your final crown in the laboratory from the selected material (all-ceramic, metal-ceramic). This process usually takes several working days.
- Crown placement and fixation: At your next visit, we will remove the temporary crown, test the fit, shape and color of the final crown. If everything is in order and you are satisfied with the result, we will firmly attach (cement) the crown to your tooth using a special dental cement. We will check the bite and make final adjustments for your maximum comfort.
The entire process is designed to be as gentle and effective as possible. Thanks to our technologies and experienced team, you can look forward to a fast and predictable result.
Advantages of dental crowns made at Dobrý Dent
Investing in a quality dental crown brings many benefits to the health of your teeth and your self-confidence. Crowns made at our Dobrý Dent clinic offer:
- Restoration of full tooth function: The crown allows for trouble-free biting and chewing, as if it were your own healthy tooth.
- Perfect aesthetics: Thanks to modern materials, especially all-ceramics, and the precise work of our technicians, we achieve a highly natural appearance that blends perfectly with your smile.
- Protection of a weakened tooth: The crown functions as a protective shield that prevents further damage or fracture of the tooth after decay, injury or endodontic treatment.
- High quality of materials and workmanship: We use only certified, biocompatible materials from renowned manufacturers and cooperate with top dental laboratories.
- Long life: With proper care and regular check-ups, you will receive high-quality The crown can last for many years, often even decades.
- Precision thanks to modern technologies: The use of an operating microscope for grinding, a 3D intraoral scanner for impressions and, if necessary, CBCT for planning guarantees maximum accuracy and perfect fit of the crown, which is key to its long-term success.
- Painlessness and comfort: Thanks to the STA anesthesia system and gentle procedures, treatment at our clinic is extremely comfortable and painless.
- Individual approach: Each patient is unique to us. We take the time to listen to you, listen to your needs and propose a tailor-made solution.
Dental crown care and durability
In order for your dental crown to last as long as possible and for your smile to remain healthy and beautiful, consistent care is essential, which is basically no different from taking care of your own teeth:
- Regular and thorough oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with a quality toothbrush and toothpaste. Pay special attention to the area between the crown and the gum, where plaque can accumulate.
- Using interdental aids: Don’t forget to clean the spaces between your teeth daily using interdental brushes or dental floss. This is where problems often arise.
- Regular preventive check-ups: Visit your dentist at Dobrý Dent at least twice a year for a preventive check-up. The doctor will check the condition of the crown, its fit and the health of the surrounding tissues.
- Professional dental hygiene: Go for regular (usually twice a year) dental hygiene, where the hygienist will professionally remove tartar and plaque from hard-to-reach places and advise you on cleaning techniques.
- Avoiding bad habits: Do not bite extremely hard objects (ice, nuts, hard candies, nails, pencils) on the crown. If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), consult your doctor about the possibility of making a protective splint for the night.
The lifespan of a dental crown depends on many factors, including the type of material, the quality of the workmanship, the level of your oral hygiene and individual habits. High-quality all-ceramic or metal-ceramic crowns can last 10, 15 or more years with proper care. At the Dobrý Dent clinic, we do our best to ensure that your crown is not only aesthetic and functional, but also as durable as possible.
Why choose Dobrý Dent for your dental crown in Prague?
If you are looking for a reliable and modern dental clinic in Prague for the manufacture of a dental crown, Dobrý Dent is the right choice. We offer you:
- Long-term experience: We have been providing comprehensive dental care since 2010. During that time, we have helped thousands of patients achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
- Team of experts: Our dentists are constantly educated in the latest procedures and technologies in the field of prosthetics and aesthetic dentistry.
- High-tech equipment: We invest in modern devices that increase the quality, accuracy and comfort of treatment – operating microscope, painless STA anesthesia, 3D intraoral scanner, digital X-ray and 3D CBCT.
- Individual and empathetic approach: We understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful. That is why we strive to create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where you will feel safe and comfortable. We will patiently explain everything to you and answer your questions.
- Focus on quality and aesthetics: Our goal is not only a functional, but also a highly aesthetic result that will highlight the natural beauty of your smile.
- Comprehensive care under one roof: We offer a wide range of dental services from dental hygiene, through conservative dentistry, endodontics, prosthetics to implantology and surgery.
- Modern and pleasant environment: Our clinic in Prague 5 – Smíchov (Anděl) is designed to make you feel comfortable and relaxed with us.