What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, size, and appearance. Crowns can be made from several materials, including:

• Porcelain or ceramic (most natural-looking)

• Metal alloys (such as gold or platinum)

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal

• Resin or composite materials

Each material has its pros and cons, and your dentist will recommend the best option based on the location of the tooth, your bite, and aesthetic preferences.

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Crowns may be recommended for a variety of dental concerns, including:

• To protect a weakened tooth (e.g., after a root canal or from decay)

• To restore a broken or worn-down tooth

• To cover and support a tooth with a large filling

• To hold a dental bridge in place

• To cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth

• To cap a dental implant

Crowns are both a restorative and cosmetic treatment, making them versatile tools in modern dentistry.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

Step 1: Consultation and Examination

Your dentist will examine the affected tooth, take X-rays, and determine if a crown is the best option.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

To make room for the crown, the tooth is filed down. If a large area is missing, your dentist may build up the core with filling material first.

Step 3: Impressions and Temporary Crown

An impression of your tooth is taken to create a custom crown. While your permanent crown is being made (which may take 1–2 weeks), a temporary crown is placed.

Step 4: Final Crown Placement

Once the custom crown is ready, your dentist will fit and cement it into place, ensuring proper alignment and bite.

Some clinics offer same-day crowns using digital scanning and in-office milling machines (like CEREC systems).