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What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown, often called a "tooth cap," is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a damaged tooth or dental implant.

Function: It is designed to restore the tooth's original shape, size, and strength.
Appearance: When cemented into place, the crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, blending seamlessly with your natural smile.
Goal: Crowns are crucial for both functional and cosmetic improvement, helping to strengthen a weak tooth and enhance its appearance, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

Why Would I Need a Crown?

Your dentist may recommend a dental crown for several reasons:

Protecting a Weak Tooth: To protect a cracked tooth or one weakened by significant decay from breaking further.
Restoring Damage: To repair a tooth that is already broken or severely worn down from grinding (bruxism).
Supporting a Large Filling: To cover and support a tooth when a large filling leaves very little natural tooth structure remaining.
Root Canal Aftercare: To restore strength to a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy.
Aesthetic Improvement: To cover severely discolored, stained, or badly shaped teeth.
Dental Implants: To cover and complete a dental implant.

Types of Dental Crowns

The best material depends on the tooth's location, biting forces, and your aesthetic goals.

All-Ceramic/Porcelain Crowns: Provide the most natural color match and are ideal for front teeth and patients with metal allergies. They mimic the light-handling qualities of a natural tooth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Offer a blend of strength from the metal base and a natural look from the porcelain, making them versatile for front and back teeth.
Zirconia/E-Max Crowns: Modern, metal-free options that combine high strength (like metal) with excellent aesthetics (like porcelain), suitable for use anywhere in the mouth.

The Crown Procedure (Typically Two Visits)

Getting a permanent crown usually involves two simple visits to our office:

Visit 1: Preparation and Temporary Crown

Tooth Preparation: The tooth is gently reshaped to remove any decay and create a strong foundation for the crown to fit over.
Impression: A precise digital scan or physical mold is taken of your prepared tooth. This impression is sent to a dental lab where your custom crown will be crafted.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed to protect your prepared tooth and maintain your smile while the permanent crown is being made.

Visit 2: Permanent Crown Placement

Temporary Removal: The temporary crown is removed.
Fit and Adjustment: Your dentist checks the fit, shape, and color of your new permanent crown.
Final Cementation: Once you and your dentist are satisfied, the new crown is permanently bonded to your tooth.

Caring for Your Crown

With proper care, a dental crown can last between 10 to 15 years, and sometimes longer!

Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily, paying special attention to the area where the crown meets the gum line.
Avoid Hard/Sticky Foods: Refrain from chewing on ice, hard candy, or very sticky foods that could potentially damage the crown.
Protect Against Grinding: If you grind your teeth (bruxism), your dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect your crown and natural teeth.
Routine Checkups: Maintain your regularly scheduled dental checkups and cleanings.