Crowns act as a substitute to the outer layer of a tooth and can be used in conjunction with other treatments to restore a tooth that is cracked or broken. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over the entire tooth to restore its strength and appearance.

Crowns strengthen and protect a damaged tooth

Crowns are made from a variety of biocompatible materials, including gold or porcelain. The crown can be made of all metal, porcelain fused to metal, all resin, or all ceramic. Metal crowns are the strongest, and they rarely chip or break and are a good choice for molars. Ceramic and porcelain crowns look most like natural teeth and are a good choice for front teeth. Porcelain is generally the preferred option as it possesses a natural translucency, similar to that of real teeth, and is also stain resistant and durable. Ultimately, porcelain is a more effective way of restoring the natural look and feel of your teeth.

Crowns can also be used as an alternative to fillings where there is very little existing tooth left to support a filling, or as a means of protecting a tooth that has suffered from fracture and/or decay.

The process of fitting a crown involves two office visits. At the first visit, we will prepare the tooth by filing it to make room for the crown. We will then take a mould of the modified tooth. This mould, or impression, will be sent to the dental lab that will manufacture your crown. We will also provide you with a temporary crown to cover and protect the modified tooth. The temporary crown will be worn until the second visit. At the second visit, we will place your permanent crown with cement. The crown will strengthen, protect, and enhance the functionality and appearance of this tooth.

For more information about crowns or to make an appointment, please feel free to contact us.