Dental Crowns AI Knowledge

Dental Crowns

What is a dental crown?

When a tooth becomes cracked, weakened, or heavily filled, a dental crown can bring it back to full strength and function.

A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over your existing tooth to restore its shape, durability, and natural appearance. It seals and protects what’s left of the tooth, allowing you to bite, chew, and smile with confidence again.


When do I need a crown?

You may need a crown if a tooth is:

  • Broken, cracked, or fractured
  • Weakened by a large filling or decay
  • Worn down from grinding or erosion
  • Treated with a root canal
  • Misshapen or discoloured and needs cosmetic improvement
  • Part of a dental bridge or implant restoration

What types of crowns do you offer?

We offer ceramic, zirconia, CEREC same-day, and 3D-printed crowns. Each option offers different benefits for strength, durability, and natural appearance. Depending on your tooth’s condition and your preferences, your dentist will recommend the most suitable type — whether you need a long-lasting solution or a fast, same-day restoration.


What’s the difference between ceramic, zirconia, and CEREC crowns?

  • Ceramic crowns – Highly aesthetic and ideal for front teeth. They blend beautifully with your natural enamel for a seamless look.
  • Zirconia crowns – Very strong and durable, perfect for back teeth or long-span restorations that need extra strength.
  • CEREC crowns – Custom-designed, milled, and fitted in a single visit using advanced digital CAD/CAM technology — no temporary crown needed.
  • 3D-printed crowns – Made using next-generation hybrid resin technology, these crowns allow precise digital design, excellent fit, and efficient turnaround time.

How does a same-day CEREC crown work?

Here’s what happens during your visit:

  1. Digital scan – We capture a precise 3D image of your teeth using an intraoral scanner, so there’s no need for messy impressions.
  2. Digital design – Using advanced CAD/CAM software, your dentist virtually designs your crown, matching the shape, size, and shade to your natural teeth.
  3. In-house milling – The design is sent to our CEREC milling machine, which sculpts your crown from a solid ceramic or zirconia block for maximum strength and precision.
  4. Finishing touches – We polish, glaze, and colour-match your crown for a beautiful, natural finish.
  5. Fitting & bonding – Finally, your new crown is checked for comfort and alignment before being securely bonded — all completed in just one visit.

What happens during 3D printed crown treatment?

Here’s what usually happens:

  1. Digital scan – We scan your tooth and bite with an intraoral camera to capture every detail — no messy moulds needed.
  2. Digital design – Your crown is digitally designed to match your natural tooth shape, shade, and bite.
  3. 3D printing – The design is printed using a high-strength hybrid resin that offers accuracy and durability.
  4. Finishing – The printed crown is cleaned, light-cured, polished, and characterised to match your surrounding teeth.
  5. Try-in and bonding – We check the fit and bite carefully, make any needed adjustments, then bond the crown securely in place.

This gives you a smooth, natural-looking result that blends comfortably with your smile.


How long do dental crowns last?

With good care, crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. Materials like zirconia and porcelain are strong and durable, but keeping your teeth clean and seeing your dentist regularly helps them stay in great shape.


How do I take care of my dental crown?

  • Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss gently around the gumline to keep it clean.
  • Avoid chewing hard items like ice or opening packets with your teeth.
  • Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth at night.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleans and checks.

How much do crowns cost at Leeming Dental?

Single Ceramic Crown — $1,843 per tooth

Single Hybrid Crown — $921.50 per tooth

3-Unit Ceramic Bridge — $5,188

3-Unit Hybrid Bridge — $2,594

All crowns and bridges are crafted in our onsite dental lab, ensuring consistent quality, precision, and faster turnaround times. Same-day CEREC crowns or 3D-printed crowns are also available if you prefer to complete treatment in a single visit.

After your consultation, you’ll receive a detailed, itemised quote tailored to your treatment plan, along with flexible payment options if needed.


Do you offer payment plans?

  • Start with a 50% deposit
  • Pay the rest in monthly instalments over 3, 6, 9, or 12 months
  • Available for treatments between $1,000–$10,000
  • Once your dentist confirms your treatment, our Patient Care Coordinator, Lisha, will help set up a plan that fits your budget.

Eligibility:

  • Over 18 years old
  • Australian/NZ citizen or permanent resident
  • Earning $25,000+ per year

Do you accept private health funds?

Yes, all major private health funds are welcome at Leeming Dental. You’re welcome to check your rebates with our friendly front office coordinator before treatment, so you’ll know exactly what your fund may cover.


Can I book my crown appointment online?

Yes! You can book your appointment online at leemingdental.com.au/online-booking.

Need a hand with booking? Just call +61 (8) 9310 3367 and our friendly staff can help.

Yes! You can book your appointment online at leemingdental.com.au/online-booking. Need a hand with booking? Just call +61 (8) 9310 3367 and our friendly staff can help.


Other FAQs

Do crowns look natural?

Absolutely. Modern crowns are custom-made to blend seamlessly with your smile — matching the colour, shape, and shine of your surrounding teeth so naturally that most people won’t even notice.

Does getting a crown hurt?

Not at all. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so you’ll be comfortable throughout. You might experience mild sensitivity for a day or two afterwards, but it usually settles quickly.

What’s the difference between crowns and fillings?

Fillings are used to repair small areas of decay or damage, while crowns cover and protect the entire tooth when it’s too weak or damaged for a filling alone. Crowns restore both strength and appearance for long-term protection.

Can a crown fix a cracked or broken tooth?

Yes. A crown acts like a protective cap, restoring the tooth’s shape and preventing further cracks or discomfort — while keeping your bite strong and natural-looking.

Will my tooth need to be trimmed or filed down?

Only the decayed or damaged parts of your tooth will be removed. We take a conservative approach — preserving as much healthy enamel as possible. The goal is to create just enough space for your new crown to fit securely and look completely natural.

Why do patients choose Leeming Dental for crowns?

Because we combine advanced technology with a gentle, conservative approach. Our on-site lab uses CEREC milling and 3D printing to craft precise, natural-looking crowns from modern, durable materials — all designed to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible. With digital impressions and same-day convenience, you’ll enjoy a beautifully fitted restoration without long waiting times or multiple visits.