Full Mouth Crowns
Full mouth crowns may be recommended for patients whose teeth have undergone extensive dental work over time, or where teeth are heavily filled, worn, cracked, or broken down. This treatment involves carefully preparing the affected teeth and restoring them with crowns to help rebuild tooth structure and improve function for chewing and biting.
Full mouth dental crowns are commonly performed as part of a full mouth rehabilitation following comprehensive assessment and planning.
Do I Need Full Mouth Crowns?
Not everyone requires full mouth crowns. A detailed examination of your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health is essential to determine whether this treatment is appropriate.
Full mouth crowns may be considered in cases such as:
- A collapsed bite caused by tooth wear (from grinding, clenching, or acid erosion)
- A collapsed bite due to missing teeth or tooth movement
- Teeth with large fillings that weaken the remaining tooth structure and are prone to fracture
- Teeth with multiple cracks or structural damage
Your dentist will assess whether full mouth crowns are necessary or if alternative treatments may be more suitable.
What Is Involved in Full Mouth Crown Treatment?
Full mouth crown treatment requires careful planning and multiple stages to ensure long-term function and comfort.
Step 1: Comprehensive Assessment
This includes:
- A full oral examination
- Intra-oral photographs
- Dental X-rays (both individual and full mouth where required)
- Assessment of gum health and existing dental work
- Checking for underlying issues connected to any grinding/clenching/acid wear
Step 2: Detailed Records and Bite Assessment
If treatment is recommended:
- Digital scans or dental impressions are taken
- Your bite is analysed, including how much bite height may need to be adjusted
Step 3: Trial Phase
- A temporary mock-up may be created to allow a trial period of the proposed bite and tooth position
- This helps assess comfort, function, and tolerance before proceeding
Step 4: Tooth Preparation
- Existing fillings may be removed
- Any decay is treated
- Cracks are stabilised
- Root canal treatment may be completed if required
- Teeth are prepared for crowns or partial crowns (onlays/inlays)
Step 5: Crown Fit and Placement
- Custom crowns are fabricated and carefully tried in
- Fit, gum health, bite alignment, shade match, and function are checked before final placement
After treatment, it may take time to adapt to the new bite. Your dentist may recommend a night guard to help protect your crowns, particularly if you grind or clench your teeth.
Cost of Full Mouth Crowns
The cost of full mouth crowns varies depending on:
- The number of teeth involved
- Crown material selected
- Complexity of the treatment
- Aesthetic and functional requirements
This type of treatment involves multiple appointments and extensive planning. As a general guide, crowns, onlays, or veneers typically range from $1,300 to $2,000+ per tooth, depending on the material used. Gold crowns are usually more expensive due to the cost of gold.
A personalised treatment plan and cost estimate will be provided following assessment.
Caring for Full Mouth Crowns
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential after complex dental treatment. Although crowns cover the teeth, the underlying tooth structure is still present and can be affected by decay or gum disease.
To care for your crowns:
- Brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste
- Clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes
- Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleans
Poor oral hygiene can lead to decay at the crown margins and gum disease, which may cause gum recession and expose crown edges. Your dentist may recommend additional cleaning aids to support long-term maintenance.
Are you looking for a new smile to replace your old, worn-out, discoloured teeth? Consider this treatment as possible option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Full Mouth Crowns Hurt?
Treatment is performed under local anaesthetic, so procedures are not painful. Some discomfort or sensitivity afterwards is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Because this treatment may alter your bite, an adjustment period is expected. Eating softer foods initially can help during this time.
Are There Alternatives to Full Mouth Crowns?
Depending on your situation, alternatives may include:
- No treatment (monitoring only)
- Rebuilding worn teeth with filling materials such as composite resin
In cases involving extensive wear or cracking, these materials may not be strong enough long-term. If a tooth fails due to structural damage, options such as dental implants or removable dentures may need to be considered.
Your dentist will discuss all suitable options with you based on your oral health needs.
How Long Do Full Mouth Crowns Last?
The lifespan of full mouth crowns varies depending on factors such as oral hygiene, bite forces, material choice, and regular dental maintenance. With good care and routine dental visits, crowns can last many years. Wearing a night guard (if recommended) and maintaining excellent oral hygiene can help reduce wear and protect your restorations over time.
