Dental Crowns: Restoring Your Smile with Confidence

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance, blending seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

Crowns can be made from various materials:

• Porcelain or ceramic for a natural tooth-like appearance

• Metal alloys such as gold or stainless steel for durability

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal for strength and aesthetics

• Composite resin for affordability and decent esthetics

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Crowns are a versatile dental treatment used in many situations, including:

• Protecting a weak or cracked tooth from breaking

• Restoring a broken or severely worn tooth

• Covering a tooth after a root canal

• Supporting a tooth with a large filling

• Covering discolored or misshaped teeth

• Holding a dental bridge in place

• Topping a dental implant

The Crown Placement Process

The process of getting a crown typically involves two visits, although some offices offer same-day crowns with CAD/CAM technology.

1. Examination and Preparation

Your dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays. The tooth is then reshaped to allow the crown to fit properly. If necessary, a buildup may be done to support the crown.

2. Impressions and Temporary Crown

An impression is taken to create a perfectly fitting crown. A temporary crown is placed while your permanent one is made.

3. Final Placement

At your second visit, the permanent crown is checked for fit and color, then bonded or cemented into place.