A crown is a covering that encases the tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure weakened by large fillings or extensive decay.
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored) crowns are the most popular, because they most resemble natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years. Like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for crowns:
What is involved?
A crown procedure requires one or two appointments. At your first appointment your tooth is prepared or shaped to accomodate your new crown. Faulty filling material and weakend tooth structure are removed. A three dimensional digital optical image is recorded and your crown in milled using CAD/CAM computer technology. Often your crown treatment can be completed in this one appointment. Sometimes we will have to take several highly accurate molds (or impressions) to create your crown. In those cases, a custom fabricated temporary crown is then be placed to protect your tooth and a second appointment is required. At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed and your final crown in bonded in place.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.