What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a porcelain cover that fits over a tooth to help restore its shape, appearance, and function. Several situations may require a crown or cap to be placed on a tooth, including broken teeth, large fillings, and root canals.
When a significant portion of a tooth consists of a filling, it loses strength and becomes more likely to break. If the tooth is damaged or the filling deteriorates, it can lead to the need for additional treatments. This is why placing a crown to protect the tooth is important.
Dental crowns are also a crucial part of the root canal process. Teeth that have received root canal treatment often have large cavities drilled into them, which is why a crown is often considered the final step of the procedure.
Crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes to change the colour or shape of a tooth or to restore a worn-down tooth to its original chewing and biting capability.
How Dental Crowns Work
When a tooth experiences so much damage or decay that large portions of it must be removed, your dentist may use a dental crown to restore it.
This is typically done over two visits as the crown will need to be custom-made. The crown is designed to fit snugly over a tooth, completely covering it. Once the crown is in place, you can use your teeth as normal.
As with any other type of restoration, crowns require routine care and maintenance. Good oral hygiene and regular visits with the hygienist can maximize the number of years a crown will last.
The Crown Procedure
Placing a dental crown requires two dental appointments. At first, your dentist will prepare and take an impression of the tooth, which will be used to create a custom crown. While your crown is being made, you may be fitted with a temporary crown.
A lab technician custom-makes the crown that will be placed over the tooth. Crowns are designed to restore teeth to their natural colour and function.
Once it's ready, you will return for a second appointment, where your crown will be placed and adjusted so that your teeth fit together and your jaw moves normally.
