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Crowns (Caps)
To bring a tooth back to correct size and shape, a crown is sometimes installed to cover the entire surface of the tooth. A crown protects the remaining portion of the tooth that can't be saved by other methods like fillings or restorations.
Crowns can be made from several different materials, but the most popular is porcelain because it can be colored to match the other existing teeth. Crowns are durable replacements for teeth, but will still eventually need replacing just like any other restoration. The crown is fabricated to specifically fit the space vacated by the old tooth, and is matched in size, color, and shape to give you back your perfect smile.
Crowns are installed for any of the following reasons:
- To repair a broken or cracked tooth
- To replace a badly decayed tooth
- To substitute for a filling that is cracked or would be extremely large if inserted
- To restore a tooth to full use that has received a root canal.
What all is involved when getting a crown installed?
Crowns are usually installed over the course of two trips to the dentist. During your first visit, the dentist will make several molds of your existing teeth in the area where the crown will go. A temporary crown will also be molded and installed over the tooth base to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is made at a lab.
Before making any molds the dentist will first ensure that the existing tooth is ready to accept a crown, or he will do the necessary shaping and drilling to properly prepare the surface, including removing any decay existing on the tooth. The temporary crown will then be glued in place and the dentist will do several checks for fit and bite.
The second visit will occur after the permanent crown is received, where the dentist will remove the temporary crown and reclean the tooth, then cement the permanent crown into place and check it for fit and to make sure there are no high spots on the crown.
When leaving after your second visit, you will be handed instructions to care for the crown, and reminded that regular checkups are necessary to ensure the long-term stability of your crown and the rest of your teeth.
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