What’s a dental crown and who might need one? DR JUSTIN GIAM, Clinical Director and one of the founding dentists at Dental Designs Clinic, walks us through the ins and outs of getting dental crowns in Singapore that are natural-looking and long-lasting.
But first, what’s a dental crown?
Think of a dental crown as a snug, custom-made cap that goes over a damaged or weakened tooth, Dr Giam explains. Have sensitive teeth, a chipped tooth or often feel discomfort when biting? A dental crown can help to restore the tooth’s strength, function and natural shape.

According to Dr Giam, dental crowns are also commonly recommended after root canal treatments, to repair cracked or worn-down tooth or as the final step following a dental implant. Dental crowns protect what remains of your natural tooth, allowing you to eat, speak and smile with comfort and confidence once again.
What to expect during your dental crown visit
Dr Giam himself has performed countless dental crown procedures on his patients over the years. He explains that getting one at Dental Designs Clinic is surprisingly straightforward. “It typically begins with a morning appointment, where the dentist reshapes the tooth to prepare it for the crown. A 3D digital scan is taken and then you’re free to head out for lunch or take a break while the crown is crafted in-house.”

Since the crown is made right there in the clinic, there’s no need for a temporary crown. That means fewer visits and no added costs. The permanent crown is ready in just a few hours and fitted that very same day.
Dr Giam adds, “Our patients are often surprised by how comfortable the process is. Everything from the scan to the crown fitting is done here, under one roof. You’re not being passed from clinic to lab and back again.”
Same-day crowns crafted with digital technology
Unlike many other dental clinics, Dental Designs Clinic crafts all its dental crowns in-house using modern digital technology. This allows for each crown to be crafted in less than a day. The captured 3D scan shows “every tiny detail of the teeth”, which the team can then use to digitally design the crown.

“After the design is finalised, the crown is made using one of two specialised methods,” shares Dr Giam. “For the hardworking molars, the crown is delicately carved from a solid block by milling machines, engineering it to withstand daily chewing forces. For front teeth, where appearance is key, a ceramic ingot is pressed into a mould under heat and pressure. This creates a thin, strong crown that captures the beauty of real tooth.”
Dr Giam elaborates. “Our digital tools help create an accurately fitted crown, but it’s the skilled hands of our ceramists that truly bring the crown to life. They hand-finish each crown, adding layers of natural texture and colour. In this way, they transform each piece into a work of art that feels and looks just like your real tooth.”
Dental Designs Clinic uses 100 percent metal-free quality materials from Europe and Japan. Dr Giam explains that these materials aren’t just chosen for their durability but for their incredible ability to mimic the delicate translucency and texture of natural teeth.

These tailored methods allow the team at Dental Designs Clinic to craft dental crowns that honour the shape and function of each individual tooth. As a result, the crown feels as natural as the tooth it restores.
A bit more about the dentist and clinic
Trained in Australia and a key opinion leader on several international dental platforms, Dr Giam is driven by a patient-first philosophy with a meticulous attention to detail. “We see many patients, especially expats in Singapore, who are used to a certain standard of dental care back home. Our goal is to match or even exceed that level, while making the entire experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.”
The clinic also works with international insurers and offers direct billing options. That means less paperwork and one less thing to worry about.

With clinics at Orchard, Raffles Place and Telok Ayer, Dental Designs Clinic is easily accessible for both working professionals and families in Singapore. The spaces are designed with comfort in mind. There’s even Netflix streaming on the ceiling and cosy blankets to keep patients warm during treatments!
Language barriers aren’t an issue here either. The clinic’s multilingual team speaks English, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, Cantonese and more, making it easier for patients to understand their treatment options and feel at ease.
- Raffles Place branch: Level 3, The House of Eden Singapore, 4 Robinson Road
- Cecil branch: #01-01B Keck Seng Building, 133 Cecil Street
- Orchard branch: #12-05 Wisma Atria Office Tower, 435 Orchard Road
6221 8284 | WhatsApp 8200 9092 | dentaldesigns.com.sg
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