When you’re looking to fix a compromised tooth, you’ve probably come across the terms tooth cap and dental crown. At first glance, they might sound like two completely different treatments. But here’s the twist: they’re often used interchangeably. Still, when we dig deeper into the world of modern dental restorations, there’s more than just semantics at play. So, if you’re wondering what’s going on with a tooth cap vs crown, and more importantly, which one is right for you, especially when dealing with a cracked tooth, tooth decay, or even a broken tooth, you’ve landed in the right place.
Let’s break it all down.
Let’s Clear Things Up: Are Tooth Caps and Crowns the Same?
Short answer? Yes and no.
Technically, a tooth cap and a tooth crown both refer to a protective covering that completely encases a damaged or decayed tooth. This protective layer helps restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and function. However, “crown” has become a more professional and updated term in modern cosmetic dentistry.
A cap and a crown are often used to describe the same thing, but there’s a subtle difference in connotation:
“Cap” is more informal and old-fashioned, often used by older generations or childhood dentists.
“Crown” is the current standard term used by dental professionals.
So, while they function the same way, the term dental crown tends to reflect more advanced materials, customised fit, and precision-based placement.
Why Dental Crowns Take the Crown: The Advantages Explained
Let’s examine why tooth crowns have become the gold standard, especially over the outdated term and method referred to as a tooth cap.
1. Customised Fit from a Modern Dental Lab
Today’s dental crowns are made with cutting-edge technology. Using 3D imaging and precise moulds, your prepared tooth is matched perfectly to a custom crown created in a dental lab. This isn’t always the case with older cap techniques, which relied more on approximations.
Custom-made crowns help retain more of your natural tooth structure, providing a result that looks and feels just like your original tooth.
2. Better Materials = Longer-Lasting Results
Crowns today are made from strong, durable materials like:
Porcelain crowns (great for front teeth)
Zirconia crowns (ultra-tough and aesthetic)
PFM crowns (porcelain fused to metal)
Ceramic crowns
Metal crowns (less common now due to metal allergies and cosmetic concerns)
These materials outperform the older styles of dental caps, offering better durability, improved aesthetics, and less likelihood of tooth sensitivity or loose tooth issues.
3. Aesthetically Superior, Especially for Front Teeth
Got discoloured teeth? Or maybe you’ve got a cracked or damaged tooth at the front that’s affecting your confidence? Tooth crowns, especially porcelain and ceramic ones, blend beautifully with your natural teeth. Unlike older-style caps, which could look bulky or mismatched, crowns are designed to look seamless.
4. Stronger Protection for the Entire Tooth
A dental crown covers the entire tooth, acting as a protective shield, especially helpful after root canal therapy or when treating a severely damaged tooth. Whether it’s from tooth trauma, severe tooth decay, or an already broken tooth, crowns strengthen and protect better than traditional caps.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
There are quite a few dental situations where a crown is the best way to protect teeth and restore oral health. You might be recommended one if you have:
A cracked or damaged tooth
A large dental filling that weakens the tooth
A decayed tooth that can’t be restored with a regular filling
A tooth that’s undergone root canal therapy
A cosmetic dentistry need (e.g. reshaping discoloured teeth)
A missing tooth that is replaced with a dental implant
A weak tooth at risk of breaking
Crowns are also used to support a dental bridge that fills in gaps between other teeth.
The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect
If you’ve never had one, the dental crown procedure might sound intimidating. But it’s a common and safe dental procedure, and dental professionals will walk you through every step.
Here’s what typically happens:
1. First Dental Visit – Exam and Tooth Prep
The affected tooth is assessed, and X-rays may be taken.
If needed, the decayed tooth material is removed.
The tooth surface is reshaped to make room for the crown.
A digital scan or impression is taken for the dental lab to craft your custom crown.
A temporary crown is fitted to protect the prepared tooth.
2. Second Visit – Permanent Crown Placement
The temporary crown is removed.
The permanent crown is tried on, adjusted, and cemented.
That’s it! Your tooth restoration is complete.
What About Tooth Caps for Kids?
Good question. In baby teeth, especially for young children with severe tooth decay, a tooth cap (often stainless steel) is still commonly used. These are less aesthetic but very functional for temporary teeth that will eventually fall out.
However, for adults seeking long-term solutions with natural aesthetics and strength, dental crowns are far superior to traditional caps.
Dental Crowns Cost: What Should You Expect?
Let’s be honest, cost plays a huge role in dental decisions. So, how much does a tooth crown cost in Australia?
On average, dental crowns cost starts at $1,300, with the final price depending on the type of crown and specific treatment needs:
The type (zirconia crowns, porcelain crowns, etc.)
The location of the clinic
Whether it’s for front teeth or molars
Whether further procedures, such as root canal therapy or dental implants, are required.
It’s more expensive than a filling, but the long-term benefits (both in strength and aesthetics) make crowns a smart investment in your dental health.
Let’s Talk Materials: Choosing the Right Crown for You
When it comes to dental crowns, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. The right material depends on your specific dental needs, the location of the affected tooth, your bite pressure, and, of course, your smile goals. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types of tooth crowns and what makes each one unique:
Porcelain Crowns
A great option for front teeth due to their natural, tooth-like appearance
Blend seamlessly with natural teeth
Stain-resistant and aesthetically pleasing
Best for patients prioritising a flawless smile
It may not be as durable for patients with heavy grinding habits
Zirconia Crowns
Known for exceptional strength and longevity
Suitable for back teeth or patients who clench or grind
Tooth-coloured and quite aesthetic, though slightly less translucent than porcelain
Resistant to wear and fracture
A solid choice for both function and appearance
Ceramic Crowns
Excellent for cosmetic restorations
Great option for patients with metal allergies
Offers good aesthetics for visible teeth
Slightly more prone to chipping compared to zirconia
Metal Crowns
Extremely durable and long-lasting
Perfect for molars that aren’t visible when smiling
Less popular today due to its metallic appearance
Not suitable for patients with metal allergies or cosmetic concerns
PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) Crowns
Combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain
Versatile and commonly used in both front and back teeth
It can sometimes reveal a dark line at the gum over time
A good compromise between appearance and durability
Every crown material offers unique advantages. Your dentist will help determine the best choice depending on where the crown is needed, the state of the tooth being treated, and your broader oral health needs.
Common Questions About Dental Crowns and Caps
If you’re still curious about dental crowns and caps, here are some common questions patients often ask.
Do crowns hurt?
Not during the dental crown procedure. You’ll be numbed for tooth preparation, and any mild sensitivity after is temporary.
How long do crowns last?
With proper care, crowns can last 10–15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene and routine dental visits are key.
Can a crown fall off?
It’s rare, but yes, usually due to trauma, decay beneath the crown, or cement failure. A quick trip to your dentist can fix it.
Are crowns better than fillings?
If you have a large dental filling or cracked tooth, a crown offers more strength and protection than a filling alone.
Why Choose Crowns Over Caps? Let’s Wrap This Up
Still trying to decide between a tooth cap and a tooth crown? Here’s why modern dental crowns are the smarter, more reliable choice:
Crowns use up-to-date terminology
“Crown” is the standard professional term used by dental professionals.
“Cap” is more old-fashioned and often refers to outdated methods.
Crowns offer a more natural look
Designed to closely resemble your natural teeth in colour, shape, and size.
Ideal for restoring front teeth or enhancing your overall smile.
Crowns are custom-made for a perfect fit
Crafted in a dental lab using digital impressions for a precise result.
More accurate than older cap techniques, leading to better comfort and function.
Crowns are stronger and more durable
Made from advanced materials like zirconia, porcelain, and ceramics.
They hold up better against chewing forces, especially on damaged or decayed teeth.
Crowns last longer
With good care, a tooth crown can last 10–15 years or more.
They’re a long-term investment in your dental health.
Crowns offer better protection
Cover the entire tooth, helping to strengthen and stabilise weak teeth.
Especially beneficial after root canal therapy or on teeth with large dental fillings.
Crowns support other restorations
Often used to anchor a dental bridge or sit on top of a dental implant.
They play a key role in many advanced dental procedures.
In short, while caps and crowns may seem interchangeable, dental crowns offer far greater benefits in terms of aesthetics, longevity, strength, and precision. If you want to protect teeth, restore function, and maintain your natural smile, crowns are clearly the better choice.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Smile Strong, Healthy, and Natural
Your teeth deserve the best, and when it comes to restoring them, dental crowns provide a blend of protection, beauty, and function that outshines traditional tooth caps. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, severe decay, or simply want to enhance your smile, trust that today’s crowns are designed with your comfort and dental health in mind.
Always consult your dentist for personalised advice. And don’t wait until a damaged tooth gets worse, early intervention can save your natural tooth structure, improve your oral health, and bring back your confident smile.
If you’d like help choosing the best type of tooth crown for your needs, book a consultation with Balmoral Dental Centre at (07) 3113 9789. They’ll assess your situation and guide you through the best options for lasting, natural-looking results.
This helps give our patients who are undergoing treatment at our clinic peace of mind knowing that we have demonstrated evidence-based quality standards of care.
If you have an urgent problem, call us on (07) 3113 9789. We will almost always be available to help out as times are reserved every day for emergencies, including Saturdays and Sundays.
