GENERAL DENTISTRY
DENTAL EXAMS & CLEANINGS | DENTAL X-RAYS | FILLINGS | WISDOM TEETH / EXTRACTIONS
ROOT CANALS | CROWNS | BRIDGES | SEALANTS | PREVENTION
CROWNS
What is a Crown?
A dental crown or cap is a tooth-shaped covering that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and/or to improve its appearance. Crowns are most commonly used in case where other types of dental restorations such as fillings cannot effectively restore the strength or integrity of the tooth. A crown then serves to protect and strengthen the tooth by fully enclosing the portion that lies at and above the gum line.
Several types of crowns are available, however porcelain crowns are the most popular due to their tooth-colored appearance. Porcelain crowns can be made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth, resulting in a natural appearance.
When do I need a Crown?
A Crown may be needed in several different situations:
- To protect a weak tooth or hold together parts of a broken or fractured tooth
- To restore a broken tooth or a tooth that is severely worn down
- To cover a tooth with a large filling or a fractured filling
- To hold a dental bridge in place
- To protect a tooth after a root canal
- To cover misshapen or badly discolored teeth
What is the procedure for getting a Crown?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.
During the first appointment, your dentist will examine and prepare the tooth. A series of x-rays may be taken to check the roots of the tooth and the surrounding areas. Your dentist will check for any decay underlying the tooth that might require a root canal. Molds or impressions will then be taken to determine the shape and size of your new crown.
The area will then be numbed with a local anesthetic. Your dentist will then prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to make room for the crown. Once the tooth is reshaped, a temporary crown will be put in place. This crown is applied with a light cement and will serve as a temporary tooth while a dental laboratory prepares a custom crown.
During the second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed and the tooth will be cleaned in preparation for the new crown. Your dentist will then check the fit and color of the permanent crown. After a local aesthetic is applied, the new crown will be carefully placed and the spacing and bite checked for comfort. The new crown is then permanently cemented in place.
Your dentist will instruct you on how to care for your new crown and discuss any follow up visits that may be needed.