Dental Crowns in Basel – Functional and Aesthetic Tooth Restoration

When a tooth is too weakened for a filling or inlay, a dental crown can restore strength, shape and function. It covers the tooth like a protective shell, stabilising it long term—often after root canal treatment, large decay, fractures or significant tooth substance loss. At Dens Artis in Basel, we plan crowns precisely for fit, bite and aesthetics.

When a filling or inlay is no longer enough

Sometimes a tooth is so weakened that a filling or an inlay can’t provide adequate stability.

A crown restores the natural shape, function and strength of the tooth. It covers the tooth like a protective shell and stabilises it over the long term.

Whether after a root canal treatment, extensive decay, fractures or major loss of tooth structure: crowns are among the most proven and durable restorations in modern dentistry.

Benefits at a glance

• Protection: Stabilises and protects weakened teeth against fractures.

• Aesthetics: Can be colour-matched to neighbouring teeth—natural and harmonious.

• Function: Restores chewing surface, contacts and bite height precisely.

• Longevity: High survival rates over many years (depending on case and care).

• Versatility: Can also serve as a support for bridges or implant crowns.

When is a crown recommended?

• After large fillings or cracks

• After root canal treatment (the tooth can be more brittle)

• With pronounced wear or erosion

• As part of reconstructive bite elevation

• When aesthetics, colour or shape need major improvement

Materials & options

All-ceramic crowns

• Zirconia or lithium disilicate – metal-free, biocompatible and highly aesthetic

• Particularly suitable for front and back teeth when high aesthetic demands are required

• Light-transmitting, colour-stable and highly wear-resistant

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns (PFM)

• Metal substructure with ceramic veneer

• Robust and durable, especially for high chewing forces

Gold crowns

• Gold alloys are extremely durable and gentle on the opposing teeth

• Ideal in non-visible posterior areas

Partial crowns / overlay crowns

• Minimally invasive options when sufficient tooth structure remains

Treatment steps – from planning to placement

1. Planning & preparation: Examination, X-rays (if indicated), digital impression/scan and shade selection.

2. Tooth preparation: Old restorations and decay are removed; the tooth is shaped so the crown fits precisely.

3. Impression or scan: Digital or conventional—for accurate lab fabrication.

4. Temporary crown: Protects the tooth until the final crown is ready.

5. Crown placement: Fit check, fine adjustments, definitive cementation/bonding.

6. Follow-up & care: Check bite, margins and contact points; instructions for optimal cleaning.

Longevity

With careful oral hygiene and regular check-ups, modern crowns often last 10–20 years or longer. Long-term studies report survival rates above 90% after 10 years—for zirconia and lithium disilicate crowns in some studies even higher.

The most common complications include ceramic chipping and secondary caries at the crown margin.

What does the science say?

All-ceramic crowns (zirconia, lithium disilicate)

10-year survival rates between 93–97%, comparable to or better than metal-ceramic crowns.

• Sailer I. et al. (2018). J Dent Res 97(3): 261–269. PMID: 29290185

• Morimoto S. et al. (2016). Dent Mater 32(3): 394–401. PMID: 26774244

Zirconia vs. metal-ceramic

Monolithic zirconia crowns show less chipping and higher precision of fit than PFM crowns.

• Monaco C. et al. (2022). J Prosthet Dent 128(5): 754–762. PMID: 34339663

Adhesive cementation / bonding

May improve marginal seal, fracture stability and long-term outcomes (case-dependent).

• Peumans M. et al. (2010). Dent Mater 26(1): 77–85. PMID: 1989676

CAD/CAM fabrication

Digital crowns show comparable or improved precision and can reduce production time.

• Skjerven H. et al. (2021). Eur J Oral Sci 129(1): e12767. PMID: 33463029

Costs – typical ranges (CHF)

Exact costs depend on material, tooth position, lab work and cementation method.

Frequently asked questions

Does the treatment hurt?

No—treatment is performed under local anaesthesia. Afterwards, mild pressure sensitivity can occur temporarily.

What’s the difference between a crown and an inlay?

An inlay replaces only part of the tooth. A crown covers the tooth fully and provides maximum stability.

How long does treatment take?

Usually two appointments (preparation + impression/scan, then final placement).

Can a crown be removed or replaced?

Yes—if necessary, a crown can be removed carefully and replaced without destroying the tooth.

What can I do to help it last longer?

Thorough daily hygiene, regular check-ups, professional cleaning, and avoiding heavy overload (grinding → night guard).

Durable, aesthetic and functional

A crown protects, stabilises and gives your tooth new strength—functionally and aesthetically.If you’re unsure whether a crown, partial crown or inlay is the right solution, we’ll be happy to advise you—individually, clearly and with experience. Together we’ll find the most suitable and long-lasting option for your smile.