Crowns, often referred to as “caps,” are dental restorations that cover the remaining portion of a natural tooth when a significant amount of its structure has been lost. They provide what’s known as “full coverage.” Crowns can be crafted from a variety of materials, ranging from all-metal gold crowns to high-strength ceramic crowns. The choice of crown material depends on factors such as the remaining tooth structure, tooth type, and patient preferences. Crowns serve several purposes, including:

1. Restoring Tooth Appearance: They improve the appearance of a tooth with a discolored filling. 2. Protecting After Root Canal: Crowns protect a tooth that has undergone a root canal procedure. 3. Supporting Bridges and Dentures: Crowns hold bridges or dentures securely in place.

Types of Crowns:

1. Porcelain Crowns: These crowns are entirely made of porcelain, offering a natural look. They are commonly used for front teeth but may not be as durable as other types. 2. All-Ceramic Crowns (e.g., Zirconia Crown): These modern, metal-free crowns combine strength and aesthetics. They are suitable for use throughout the mouth. 3. All-Metal Crowns: These crowns are made entirely of metal, either precious or non-precious, and are typically used for back teeth.

The Crown Procedure:

– Local anesthesia is administered, making the preparation process similar to getting a filling. If the tooth lacks a nerve (e.g., after a root canal), anesthetic may not be necessary. – The tooth is prepared by shaping it to the ideal form for the crown, involving the removal of most of the outer surface while leaving a sturdy inner core. The amount removed matches the crown’s thickness. – Impressions (molds) are taken of the prepared tooth, the opposing jaw, and possibly your bite alignment. – The impressions are sent to a dental technician along with instructions for the crown’s shade and other details. – A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready, typically for 1-2 weeks. – The permanent crown is crafted to closely match the color of your adjacent teeth. – After ensuring the fit and appearance of the new crown meet your satisfaction, it is permanently affixed using dental cement or adhesive, creating a secure seal. – Initially, you may notice the crown’s presence due to its slight difference in shape from your natural tooth.

However, this sensation typically fades within a few days, and the crown should feel comfortable. If your bite feels off, adjustments can be made for optimal comfort and function. Please don’t hesitate to ask us for any necessary adjustments.