What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made of different materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. They are often used to treat teeth that have been damaged by decay, trauma, or other factors.

Dental crowns can be used to:

• Restore the shape and size of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury

• Improve the strength of a tooth that has been weakened by decay or injury

• Improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or misshapen

• Protect a tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy

• Anchor a dental bridge in place

Crowns are typically made in a dental laboratory, where they are custom-designed to fit over the tooth. Once the crown is ready, it is cemented into place by a dentist.

The process of getting a crown usually takes two appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it so that the crown can fit over it. An impression of the tooth will be taken, which will be used to create the crown. A temporary crown may be placed on the tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made.

At the second appointment, the permanent crown will be cemented into place. The dentist will check the fit of the crown and make sure that it is comfortable.

Dental crowns are a durable and effective way to restore the health and appearance of damaged teeth. They can last for many years with proper care.