The Crown Fit Notes Template UK Dentists Use
A crown fit notes template captures the crown cementation visit — lab work check against prescription, try-in assessment of fit and aesthetics, patient approval, cementation with specific cement, post-cementation occlusal check, and post-op patient instructions — meeting CGDent restorative record-keeping standards and MDR 2017 traceability.
A crown fit note that doesn't record the post-cementation occlusal check is the single biggest source of post-op TMD and fractured-opposing-tooth claims. Below is the template UK dentists paste into their PMS for every crown cementation.
Download the free Crown Fit template — plain text, GDC/FGDP(UK)-aligned.
Why this crown fit template wins
- Post-cementation occlusal check is its own line — the missing element in 90% of post-crown TMD claims. Always check AFTER cement sets.
- Patient approval documented BEFORE cementation — if they later complain about appearance, the record shows they approved.
- Cement type recorded — if a crown debonds, the cement choice is the first question.
- Tactile + visual margin check — the two complementary methods for assessing fit.
- MDR statement of conformity receipt confirmed — closes the regulatory loop.
Compliance: the medico-legal angle
- MDR 2017 — statement of conformity from lab must be received with the device and retained for 10 years.
- CGDent restorative records — try-in, fit, occlusion, cementation, post-op all required.
- Montgomery — patient approval BEFORE cementation is the consent moment for aesthetics; documented approval protects against later dissatisfaction claims.
- GDC Principle 4 — occlusal records must show that adjustments were made and the final occlusion was checked.
Common mistakes UK dentists make
- No post-cementation occlusal check — single biggest source of TMD claims after crown fit.
- Patient approval not documented pre-cementation — leaves aesthetic disputes undefendable.
- Cement type not recorded — if crown debonds, you can't demonstrate appropriate cement choice.
- No MDR statement of conformity filed — MDR 2017 breach, audit issue.
- Adjustments made but not documented — leaves no audit trail if the patient later reports a fractured opposing tooth or jaw pain.
Frequently asked questions
What cement should I use for what crown?
PFM / full metal: RMGI (RelyX Luting+) or zinc phosphate — both proven, low technique sensitivity. All-ceramic (e.max, leucite): resin cement (Variolink, RelyX Unicem) — bonds chemically with HF + silane. Zirconia: self-adhesive resin (Panavia SA, RelyX Unicem) — no HF needed. Record what you used.
Why check occlusion BEFORE AND AFTER cementation?
Pre-cement check confirms the lab work seats correctly with the lab's articulator. Post-cement check is more important — actual cement film thickness shifts the crown slightly, and you may need to adjust. Skipping the post-check is the single biggest source of "high crown" complaints.
How do I document patient approval of aesthetics?
"Patient shown in mirror at try-in. Verbalised approval of shade and contour before cementation." That's all you need — but it must be in the note. Without it, any later aesthetic complaint is your problem.
What if I need to adjust the occlusion significantly?
Document what you adjusted, where, and why. "Premature contact on disto-buccal cusp UL6 in ICP, adjusted with fine football diamond, articulating paper now shows even bilateral contact." If the adjustment changes guidance or working/non-working contacts, document the change. Re-polish after.
Do I need rubber dam for crown cementation?
Best practice for resin cement (moisture-sensitive). Acceptable to use cotton rolls + good suction for RMGI / zinc phosphate. Document what isolation you used.
What about cement excess removal?
Critical. Excess subgingival cement causes peri-implantitis (on implants) and gingivitis (on teeth). Wait for cement to reach gel state (1-3 min depending on cement) then remove with explorer and floss. Floss through every contact. Document the check.