A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size.  A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are very popular, because they resemble your natural teeth.  They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced.  Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.
• Tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately 2-3 weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  A final impression will be taken to be sent to the dental laboratory.  Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly. It is VITAL to AVOID chewing on this side of your mouth until you receive your finished crown.  Biting or chewing on the temporary crown can lead to fracture of the temporary crown or tooth underneath, and even swallowing of the temporary crown. 

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed in the mouth.  The esthetics of the crown will be evaluated, shown to the patient, and your bite (occlusion) will be checked prior to cementation.  Your crown will then be cemented in place, and any excess cement will be removed once the cement has fully hardened.  We will then check your occlusion (bite) one last time to make sure everything looks and feels perfect.  

You will be given homecare instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.