Damaged or decaying teeth can be restored by covering them with an appropriately sized crown. Crowns are ideal alternatives when fillings and other methods are deemed unsuitable or undesirable.

There are a variety of options for crowns based on your needs and preferences. Porcelain is the most popular type because it most closely resembles natural teeth. It is also resistant to damage and, with proper care, can last for many years. Your dentist will match the porcelain crown with the natural color, size and shape of your teeth so that it blends in well with the rest of your teeth.

Reasons to get a dental crown:

• Tooth decay
• Fractured filling
• Broken teeth
• Root canal
• Aesthetic enhancement
• Large filling

What is Involved in the Procedure?

Getting a crown generally requires at least two visits to the dentist’s office. The initial visit involves preliminary preparation of the tooth area, and the creation of a mold which will eventually be used to make your new crown. A temporary crown may also be made to cover the bare tooth while waiting for the permanent one to arrive. Fabrication of a new crown can take anywhere from several days to as much as two weeks.

First, the dentist will remove any signs of decay around the tooth. Anesthesia may be used if the patient feels pain. The perimeter will slowly be worn away to make some space for the crown. The temporary mold will be attached using weak cement. Your dentist will then inspect the bite to check for any potential issues and make adjustments accordingly.

When you return to the office, the temporary crown will be removed and the underlying tooth cleaned to ensure a proper fit of the permanent crown. It is essential to get the fit and placement just right.

Once your permanent crown is placed, you will be taught about the proper care and maintenance of your new dental crown. Visits to your dentist should be done regularly for checkups and preventive work.