Crowns

What is a dental crown?

If a tooth has been significantly damaged by decay or injury or if it is too misshapen, undersized, or darkly stained to be restored with fillings, dental bonding or veneers, a full coverage restoration is typically required. Known as a dental crown or “cap,” a full coverage restoration is custom designed and fabricated by the  dentist to fit over the damaged tooth to recreate a healthy and natural  appearance and to reestablish the function of the tooth. Beyond  restoring the form and function of the tooth, a dental crown serves to strengthen and preserve the underlying tooth so that with proper care it can be maintained for many years.

When is a dental crown needed?

Dental crowns  are typically recommended as the restoration of choice when a tooth has  undergone a root canal procedure. They are also used to cover the  abutment teeth next to an edentulous (toothless) space to provide  support for a fixed bridge and are used for the restoration of dental implants to serve as a permanent replacement for a lost or missing tooth.

What are dental crowns made of?

Crowns can be  fabricated from a variety of materials including porcelain or dental  ceramics, porcelain fused to metal, composite resin and metal alloys.  Which type of crown is fabricated depends upon the aesthetic and  functional requirements of the case, patient preferences, and budget.

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How are dental crowns fabricated?

Tooth preparation and crown fabrication is a multistep process:

1. The dentist  prepares the tooth by removing the outer layers of the tooth as well as  any damaged tooth structure. If there is not enough tooth structure  remaining, the core of the tooth can be built up with restorative  materials as needed to provide sufficient retention for a crown.

2. A detailed impression is taken and a model of the prepared tooth is constructed.

3. A custom crown is fabricated based upon the exact specifications of the model.

4. If the crown  is not to be placed the same day, a temporary crown is placed to cover  and protect the prepared tooth as well as maintain its appearance.

5. The final  crown is checked for fit and appearance. Once any final adjustments are  made, the crown is cemented or bonded into place.

With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last for many years.