A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size and strength and to improve its appearance. The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.
When a larger part of the tooth is damaged from decay, fractures or cracks, a crown or cap may be recommended. There are several types of beautiful and functional crowns that can be provided depending on the specific situation.
Crowns are used to restore a tooth that has fractured or is likely to fracture, often due to extensive decay, large fillings, heavy wear or stress fractures. Most crowns cover the entire tooth to the gum line and can be fabricated from porcelain, porcelain and metal blends or gold. Modern crowns are as strong as natural teeth, and they experience wear at the same rate. The team at Kennestone Dental Designs always recommends the use of a high quality dental laboratory that will customize your crowns to your needs. Quality restorations can last decades. This isn’t an area where corners should be cut.
Several steps are involved, and, generally, two dental visits are needed to complete the treatment. The dentist prepares the tooth by removing its outer portion to accommodate the thickness of the crown. If additional tooth structure is needed to support the crown, the dentist may build up the core of the tooth.
An impression is made to provide an exact model of the prepared tooth. The laboratory technician then uses the model to help develop the shape and size of the crown.
A temporary cap is placed while the final crown is made. When the crown is ready, the assistant puts it in place and makes the necessary adjustments. When it fits perfectly and the dentist is satisfied with how it looks and feels, the crown is cemented in place.