Frequently asked questions

Questions about abroad dentistry? Get them answered here.

Crowns, bridges

What is a crown?

A crown is an artificial restoration that fits over the remaining part of a prepared tooth, making it strong and giving it the shape of a natural tooth. More A crown is sometimes known as a ‘cap’. Less

Why would I need a crown?

Crowns are an ideal restoration for teeth that have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. More A crown could be used for a number of other reasons, for instance: you may have discoloured fillings and would like to improve the appearance of the tooth you may have had a root filling which will need a crown to protect it it may help hold a bridge or denture firmly in place. Less

What is a post crown?

In root-filled teeth it may be necessary to insert a post before placing a crown. More A post provides support and helps the crown stay in place. The weakened crown of the tooth is drilled off at the level of the gum. A post can be made of prefabricated stainless steel which the dentist can fit directly into the root canal, to help secure the crown, or a custom-made post can be constructed by the dental technician to accurately fit the shape of the prepared root canal. The post is placed into the root canal and cemented in position, ready for the crown to be attached. Less

Are there any alternatives to post crowns for root-filled teeth?

If a root-filled tooth is not completely broken down, it may be possible to build it up again using filling material. More This ‘core’ is then prepared in the same way as a natural tooth and the impressions are taken. Less

What is a crown made of?

The following materials are used for making crowns ( the same materials are used for bridges, inlays and onlays ):
Porcelain bonded to precious metal or non-precious metal: A metal base is made and then porcelain is applied in layers over it. More
For the metal frame a cobalt chrome alloy, or a gold alloy is used.

Pressed ceramic-porcelain crowns: At SODC Clinic we use Ivoclar E-max pressed ceramic crowns which are made of a special silicate used in dentistry called Lithium disilicate. This material is stronger and looks more natural than common porcelain, therefore offers a superior aesthetic result and improved durability and stress bearing.

Zirconium crowns: The crown is carved from a Zirconium dioxide-porcelain block with computer aided manufacturing. This forms a Zirconium dioxide base and porcelain covering. Zirconium has a light colour which allows the complete crown to appear more natural, brighter than common metal based crowns thanks to higher transparency. Zirconium is also stronger and more durable than the common metal alloy.

Composite crowns: for crowns an inferior choice is composite material which we don't use at the clinic. Less

What will happen between visits? Will I have temporary teeth before crowns?

A temporary crown will be made so that you can use the tooth while you wait for the crown to be made. More This crown may be more noticeable but is only a temporary measure. Less

How long does the treatment take?

The treatment is completed in 5 weekdays. More You need to visit the dentist 2-3 times during this time. If you stay in Budapest for the whole treatment time we suggest Monday to Friday stay. Alternatively you can split visits to two short visits with at least 4 days between. Less

Will the crown be noticeable? Do crowns look bulky?

No. More The crown will be made to match your other teeth exactly. The shade of the neighbouring teeth will be recorded, to make sure that the colour looks natural and matches the surrounding teeth. You may also match the treatment with whitening or veneers on other teeth to achieve a brighter smile. Less

How do I care for my crown?

The crown itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the crown joins the tooth. More Therefore, it is important to keep this area just as clean as you would your natural teeth in order to prevent decay affecting the crown. Less

How long will the crown last?

Properly cared for crowns should last for 10-15 years. Less

Will metal show on or under crowns?

Though common porcelain bonded crowns have a metal inner frame but a so called porcelain shoulder is applied (free of charge) which covers all edges to make sure metal will never show even is the material starts to wear away. More Otherwise you may opt for completely metal free crowns for a superior aesthetic result. Less

How much do dental crowns cost?

We offer substantial savings on dental crowns. More Our prices are 75% cheaper than UK, Ireland or Scandinavian countries. To receive a preliminary quote simply fill in our form and we shall within 24 hours send you a personalized quote, or attend our FREE Dental Day in Budapest at No Cost & No Obligation! Less

Will the crown be noticeable?

The crown will be made to match your other teeth as closely as possible. More The shade of the neighbouring teeth will be recorded, to make sure that the colour looks natural and matches the surrounding teeth. Less

Will the crown feel different?

Because the shape of the crown will be slightly different from the shape of your tooth before it was crowned, you may be aware of it to begin with. More Within a few days it should feel fine, and you will not notice it. The crown may need some adjustment if your bite does not feel comfortable, and if this is the case simply contact us for adjustment. Less

How do I care for my crown?

How long your crown lasts depends on how well you look after it. More The crown itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the crown joins the tooth. Therefore, it is important to keep this area just as clean as you would your natural teeth in order to prevent decay affecting the crown. Less

Does it hurt to have a tooth prepared for a crown?

No. More A local anaesthetic is used and the preparation should feel no different from a filling. If the tooth does not have a nerve, and a post crown is being prepared, then a local anaesthetic may not be needed. Less

How long do dental crowns last?

On average, dental crowns last between 8 - 15 years. More The life span of a crown depends on the amount of "wear and tear" the crown is exposed to, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices, and your personal mouth-related habits (you should avoid such habits as grinding or clenching your teeth, chewing ice, biting your fingernails and using your teeth to open packaging) Less

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people who know it best!

Get answers before you decide.

Our knowledgeable Support Staff are available to answer all your questions, concerns to make your decision easier to choose an abroad dental clinic you feel comfortable with.
Just call us at +44 203 318 5606.
Or simply send us an e-mail.

Free Airport pick-up!

When you arrive we will wait for you at the airport regardless of day or time. We will drive you from your hotel to the clinic for all your dental appointments. Ask our drivers about the city they always know whats happening.