What are Crowns?
A dental crown is a synthetic dental appliance usually made from porcelain, that is fit on top of a tooth. Crowns are used to restore a tooth’s form and function after a restorative procedure such as a root canal.
Uses for Dental Crowns
A dental crown is fabricated in the event a natural tooth has decayed to the point that much of the tooth must be removed, the crown is placed over what is left, taking the place of the damaged tooth.
Other uses for a crown are to attach bridges, cover implants, prevent a chipped tooth from becoming worse, and even when an existing filling is in jeopardy of becoming loose or falling out. Their main use is often for aesthetic reasons, as they can be applied to cover an overly stained tooth, or heavily chipped tooth. They allow patients to restore their natural smile.
Procedure
In order to accommodate a dental crown, we generally must shave down a tooth. We make an impression of an existing tooth and create a custom-made crown from this mold. In some cases, while the crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be applied.
With proper care your crowns can last longer than 8 years! As with natural teeth, brushing and flossing is important. Also avoid certain behaviors like grinding of teeth or eating hard candies or brittle foods.
