A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” or cover that we place over a tooth that is badly damaged from trauma or decay to restore its shape, strength, size and functionality. We also use them for cosmetic reasons to improve a tooth’s appearance with natural, life-like results. Crowns are generally handcrafted by dental laboratory technicians using high-quality dental porcelains (ceramic materials) that are made to fit on precise replicas (molds) of the prepared teeth. In our office, we generally make temporary crowns to protect the teeth to keep them comfortable and functional while the permanent crown(s) is being made. And once a crown is placed (cemented into position), it fully encases the entire visible portion of the tooth that lies at and above the gum line.
When Are They Necessary?
There are many reasons a crown may be needed. Some of these include:
- To repair a tooth that is worn down, broken or badly damaged by decay or injury.
- To restore a tooth so severely damaged by decay that the tooth’s structure is no longer intact enough to place a filling or where a filling can’t restore the tooth to its former strength.
- To protect a tooth that has minor cracks or fractures from further damage.
- To create a bridge to replace a missing tooth, in which the teeth on either side, known as abutments, must be “crowned” to attach to the “pontic” (from the French word, “pont” that means bridge).
- To create the visible part of the tooth that sits atop a dental implant.
- To improve the appearance of a tooth providing a more appealing shape and color.
To learn more on this topic, read the Dear Doctor article, “Porcelain Crowns & Veneers.” You can also contact us to discuss your questions or to schedule a consultation.
