A crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size and strength, and it protects what is left of the natural tooth underneath. Once cemented in place, a crown looks and works just like a natural tooth.
Why get a crown
Your dentist may recommend a crown to protect a weak or cracked tooth, restore a tooth that is badly worn or broken, cover a tooth with a large filling when little natural tooth remains, hold a dental bridge in place, cover a dental implant, or improve the look of a misshapen or discolored tooth. A crown is also commonly placed after root canal treatment to protect the tooth.
Types of crowns
Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain and ceramic crowns match the color of your natural teeth and are a popular choice for front teeth. Metal crowns are the strongest and are often used on back teeth, where chewing forces are greatest.
What to expect
Getting a crown usually takes two visits. At the first visit, your dentist numbs the area, reshapes the tooth, takes an impression and places a temporary crown. The impression goes to a dental lab, where your permanent crown is made to match your other teeth. At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is checked for fit and color, then cemented in place.
Caring for your crown
With good brushing, daily flossing and regular checkups, a crown can last many years. Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods, and let us know if your crown ever feels loose or uncomfortable.