Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns in Basel
In brief: dental crowns
Sometimes a tooth is so extensively weakened that a filling or inlay is no longer sufficient.
A dental crown restores the shape, function and stability of a damaged tooth. It covers the prepared tooth like a protective shell and can provide durable reinforcement when appropriately indicated.
After root canal treatment, extensive caries, fractures or substantial loss of tooth structure, a crown can be an established restorative option when a direct or partial restoration is no longer sufficient.
Potential Benefits and Treatment Goals
stabilises and protects weakened teeth against fracture.
the shade and shape can be matched closely to neighbouring teeth for a natural appearance.
restores the chewing surface, contact points and bite accurately.
modern crowns can provide reliable service for many years when appropriately indicated and maintained.
crowns can also be used on implants or as retainers for dental bridges.
When is a crown appropriate?
After large restorations or cracks
After root canal treatment when the remaining tooth is structurally weakened
For pronounced tooth wear or erosion
reconstructive bite rehabilitation
When the shape, colour or form of a tooth needs substantial correction
Materials and Treatment Options
All-ceramic crowns
Zirconia or lithium disilicate – metal-free ceramic materials with different mechanical and optical properties
Suitable for anterior and posterior teeth when high functional and aesthetic demands need to be balanced
Light-transmitting, colour-stable and wear-resistant depending on the material selected
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns
A metal framework veneered with ceramic
A robust and established option, particularly in areas with high chewing loads
Gold crowns
are extremely durable and can be gentle to the opposing dentition
An option particularly for less visible posterior teeth
Partial crowns / overlays
Tooth-preserving alternatives when sufficient healthy tooth structure remains
Treatment Process
Planning and preparation: clinical assessment, radiographs where indicated, digital scan and shade selection.
old restorations and caries are removed and the tooth is shaped to create sufficient space and retention for the crown.
digital or conventional, depending on the situation, to allow accurate laboratory fabrication.
protects the prepared tooth until the definitive restoration is ready.
Crown placement: fit, contacts and bite are checked and adjusted before definitive cementation or adhesive bonding.
the bite, margins and contact points are checked and you receive instructions for effective cleaning.
Long-term stability and follow-up
With good oral hygiene and regular follow-up, modern crowns can remain functional for many years. Longevity varies with the tooth, material, bite, biological conditions and maintenance; long-term studies generally report high survival rates for contemporary ceramic and metal-ceramic crowns.
Possible long-term complications include ceramic chipping, loss of retention, fracture, endodontic problems or recurrent caries at the crown margin.
Scientific Context
All-ceramic crowns (zirconia, lithium disilicate):
Long-term studies report high survival rates for contemporary all-ceramic crowns, although results depend on material, indication and study design.
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 compared with metal-ceramic:
Monolithic zirconia avoids veneering-ceramic chipping, but correct design, finishing, occlusion and case selection remain important.
Monaco C. et al. (2022). J Prosthet Dent 128(5): 754–762. PMID: 34339663
Adhesive cementation:
may improve retention and marginal integrity when indicated and used with suitable restorative materials.
Peumans M. et al. (2010). Dent Mater 26(1): 77–85. PMID: 1989676
CAD/CAM fabrication:
Digitally produced crowns can achieve clinically reliable accuracy and may streamline laboratory and manufacturing workflows.
Skjerven H. et al. (2021). Eur J Oral Sci 129(1): e12767. PMID: 33463029
Costs and Individual Treatment Planning
The exact cost depends on the material, tooth position, laboratory work and method of fixation.
Restoration | Typical range |
All-ceramic crown (anterior/posterior tooth) | 1’700 – 1'900 CHF |
Post/core build-up (if required) | + 180 – 450 CHF |
Temporary / laboratory work | + 80 – 180 CHF |
Frequently asked questions
Does the treatment hurt?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia. Mild tenderness or pressure sensitivity may occur afterwards.
What is the difference between a crown and an inlay?
An inlay replaces only part of the damaged tooth, whereas a crown covers the prepared tooth more extensively and can provide greater structural reinforcement.
How long does the treatment take?
Usually two appointments are required: preparation and scan or impression, followed by placement of the definitive crown. Some workflows may vary.
Can a crown be removed or replaced?
Yes. If replacement becomes necessary, a crown can usually be removed carefully and renewed, although the remaining tooth structure must be reassessed first.
What can I do to help it last?
Maintain thorough oral hygiene, attend regular examinations and professional cleaning appointments, and protect the teeth against excessive loading where necessary, for example with a night guard for bruxism.
Summary
A well-planned crown can protect and stabilise a weakened tooth while restoring function and natural appearance.
If you are unsure whether a crown, partial crown or inlay is the most appropriate option, we would be pleased to advise you. We compare the alternatives based on the remaining tooth structure, function, aesthetics and long-term prognosis.
Diagnostics and Planning
Before definitive treatment, we assess remaining tooth structure, gum health, the bite, available space, aesthetics and cleanability. The aim is not the most extensive technical solution, but one that suits the individual situation and can be maintained and monitored over the long term.
Limitations, Risks and Alternatives
Even well-planned restorations are subject to wear. Possible long-term issues include fractures, chipping, loosening, recurrent caries at restoration margins, changes in the gums and the need for later repairs. Material selection, preparation design, occlusion and regular follow-up all influence the long-term prognosis.
Dental crowns in Basel: experience and clinical context
At Fachzahnarztpraxis Dr. Gasser in Basel, reconstructive treatment is planned with function, aesthetics and long-term maintainability in mind. Dr Thomas Gasser is a specialist in reconstructive dentistry (SSRD) and is recognised as a specialist by the European Prosthodontic Association. Digital planning and close collaboration with the dental laboratory support precise implementation.More about Dr Thomas Gasser’s training and qualifications.
Related Topics on Our Website
Depending on the individual situation, Inlays / Onlays / Overlays,Dentures: Treatment Information or Dental Bridges may also be relevant.You can find further dental services in Basel in our treatment overview.
Literature and Scientific Context
PubMed PMID 33745685 – Survival and complications of monolithic ceramic for tooth-supported fixed dental prostheses: A systematic review and meta-analysis
PubMed PMID 42575241 – Clinical outcomes of zirconia dental restorations: A systematic review and meta-analysis
The selected literature provides scientific context. Which findings are relevant to a specific treatment depends on the diagnosis, the starting situation, individual risks and the treatment goals agreed together.
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