Dental Crowns

A dental crown (often called a “cap”) is a custom-made cover that fits over a prepared tooth:

• It replaces the outer surface of the tooth above the gum line
• It restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance
• It protects remaining tooth structure from further damage or fracture

Crowns are commonly made from materials such as porcelain, zirconia, porcelain‑fused‑to‑metal, or full metal depending on where the tooth is in your mouth and your aesthetic goals.

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

Our dentists may recommend a crown if you have:

• A tooth with a large filling
  When too much natural tooth is missing, a filling alone can’t provide enough strength.

• Cracked or broken teeth
  To hold the tooth together and prevent further fracture.

• Root canal treated teeth
  These teeth are often brittle and benefit from a crown for long‑term protection.

• Heavily worn teeth (grinding, acid erosion, etc.)
  To rebuild proper shape and function.

• Severely discoloured or misshapen teeth
  Where whitening or veneers alone are not sufficient.

• Dental implants
  A crown is attached to an implant to replace a missing tooth.

If you’re unsure whether you need a crown, we will examine your tooth, take X‑rays if needed, and discuss all appropriate options (filling, inlay/onlay, crown, or other treatment).

Types of Dental Crowns at Ridgepark Dental Clinic

We offer several modern crown materials. Your dentist will recommend the best choice based on the tooth’s position, your bite, and your cosmetic expectations.

1. All-Ceramic / Porcelain Crowns

• Highly aesthetic, closely mimicking natural tooth enamel
• Ideal for front teeth and visible smile areas
• Metal‑free option, suitable for patients with some metal sensitivities

These are often chosen when appearance is the top priority.

2. Zirconia Crowns

• Extremely strong and durable
• Can be tooth‑coloured and highly aesthetic
• Suitable for back teeth that require extra strength and for patients who grind their teeth

Zirconia is a great balance of strength and appearance.

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

• Metal core for strength, covered by tooth‑coloured porcelain
• Versatile and used for both front and back teeth
• Time‑tested, widely used option with good durability

A small metal line may sometimes be visible at the gum line, especially if gums recede over time.

4. Full Metal Crowns (Gold/Metal Alloy)

• Very strong and long‑lasting
• Require less removal of tooth structure
• Usually used for back molars where appearance is less critical

We’ll discuss metal options with you if this is appropriate for your case.

The Dental Crown Procedure at Ridgepark Dental

Getting a crown usually takes two visits after your initial exam and diagnosis.

1. Consultation & Treatment Planning

• We examine your tooth and surrounding gums
• Take X‑rays to check the root and bone
• Discuss your symptoms and goals
• Recommend treatment options (crown vs filling vs other options)
• Help you choose the most suitable crown material

You’ll receive a clear explanation of the process, timeline, and costs before treatment begins.

2. Tooth Preparation & Temporary Crown

At your first treatment visit:

1. Numbing the tooth
   We use local anaesthetic so you remain comfortable throughout.

2. Shaping the tooth
   We gently remove decayed or weakened areas and shape the tooth to create space for the crown.

3. Impressions or digital scan
   We take an impression/scan of your teeth so the dental laboratory can create your custom crown.

4. Shade selection
   We choose a crown colour that blends naturally with your surrounding teeth.

5. Temporary crown
   A temporary crown is fitted to protect your tooth while the final crown is made.

You’ll leave the clinic able to chew carefully on the treated side and smile normally.

3. Fitting the Final Crown

Once your crown is ready (usually in 1–2 weeks):

1. We remove the temporary crown.
2. We try in the new crown, checking fit, bite, and appearance.
3. We make any fine adjustments needed.
4. When you and your dentist are happy, the crown is permanently cemented.

You can usually eat and drink as normal once the anaesthetic wears off, unless advised otherwise.

Dental Crowns vs Fillings vs Veneers

Patients are often unsure whether they need a filling, veneer, or crown. The best choice depends on how much healthy tooth remains and what you want to achieve.

• Fillings
  Best for small to moderate cavities where most of the tooth is still intact.

• Veneers
  Thin ceramic shells placed on the front surface of teeth, mainly for cosmetic changes (shape, colour, minor alignment) when the rest of the tooth is strong.

• Crowns
  Encase the entire visible part of the tooth and are used when structural strength and full coverage are needed.

At Ridgepark Dental Clinic, we always aim to preserve as much natural tooth as possible. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each option in your specific situation so you can choose confidently.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

With proper care, dental crowns commonly last 10–15 years or more. Their lifespan depends on:

• Your oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, regular professional cleanings)
• Your bite and whether you grind your teeth
• The crown material and how heavily the tooth is used

To help your crowns last as long as possible:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily, including around the crown margins
• Avoid biting very hard objects (ice, pens, fingernails)
• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
• Attend regular checkups at Ridgepark Dental Clinic

Cost of Dental Crowns in Nairobi

The cost of a dental crown in Nairobi varies based on:

• The material used (porcelain, zirconia, PFM, metal)
• The complexity of your case (e.g. root canal, build‑up required)
• Whether you need crowns on multiple teeth

Because each case is different, we provide a personalised treatment plan and fee estimate after your examination.

At Ridgepark Dental Clinic, we are committed to:

• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
• Clear explanation of all options and their fees
• [Optional: Staged payment options for larger treatment plans]

To get an accurate quote for your situation, schedule a consultation or call us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

Is getting a dental crown painful?

The procedure itself is done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain. You may experience mild sensitivity or soreness for a few days afterward, which typically improves on its own and can be managed with over‑the‑counter pain relief if needed.

Can a crown be placed without a root canal?

Yes. Not all teeth that need crowns require root canal treatment. A root canal is only needed if the tooth’s nerve is inflamed, infected, or severely damaged. If the nerve is healthy, we can often place a crown without root canal therapy.

Do dental crowns look natural?

Modern crowns—especially porcelain and zirconia—can be made to look very natural. We carefully match the colour, shape, and size to blend with your other teeth.

Can dental crowns be whitened?

No. Crowns do not respond to whitening gels like natural teeth do. If you’re considering whitening:

• It’s best to whiten your natural teeth first, then match any new crowns to your lighter shade.
• Existing crowns won’t change colour with whitening and may need replacement if you want a different shade.

How do I care for my dental crown?

Care for your crown just like a natural tooth:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss gently around the crown, especially at the gum line
• Attend regular checkups and cleanings
• Avoid chewing very hard objects

If your crown feels loose or you notice pain, swelling, or a bad taste around it, contact us promptly.

What if my crown breaks or comes off?

If your crown cracks, chips, or comes off:

1. Keep any broken pieces or the whole crown if possible.
2. Do not try to glue it back yourself.
3. Call Ridgepark Dental Clinic on [phone number] as soon as you can.

We’ll assess whether the crown can be repaired or needs to be replaced, and protect your tooth in the meantime.

Dental Crowns at Ridgepark Dental Clinic – Parklands, Nairobi

If you have a cracked, heavily filled, or worn tooth, a dental crown may be the most reliable way to restore strength, function, and appearance.