Your Invisalign® ProviderWhat is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a dental restoration that covers (or 'caps') a tooth to restore its shape, size and colour.
Dental crowns can help to improve the strength, function and appearance of a damaged or decayed tooth that may otherwise be lost.
Dental crowns may also be used for cosmetic reasons, to cover a crooked or discoloured tooth, and improve the appearance of your smile.
Crowns are incredibly strong due to the fact that they are often made of porcelain which protects and strengthens the remaining tooth structure.
The Crown Procedure
To place a dental crown generally requires at least two appointments at your dental office. Once your dentist determines you need a crown, here's what you can expect at each appointment.
The First Appointment
First your dentist will examine your mouth and then prepare the tooth that needs the crown.
To prepare the tooth, your dentist will file down and remove part of the outer layer of the tooth. Next, they will take an impression of the trimmed tooth and the surrounding teeth, and place a temporary crown over your tooth to protect it. The temporary crown is placed using temporary cement so that it can come off easily once the permanent crown is ready.
Your dental office will send your unique tooth impression to a dental laboratory to make your permanent crown, which may take several weeks.
Using your impression, the laboratory technician is able to examine all aspects of your bite and jaw movements, and sculpt a crown just for you. Your dentist will also be sure to determine the shade of your teeth to help the technician make a crown that will match the colour of the rest of your teeth.
The Second Appointment
Once the crown is ready, you’ll return to your dental office for the second appointment. During this visit, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown to your tooth.
The permanent crown is first placed on the tooth and inspected for acceptable fit, bite and smooth margins. After any necessary adjustments have been made, the crown is cemented with a permanent cement or dental glue.
Caring for a Dental Crown
With the proper care, dental crowns can last on average from 10 to 20 years. They are still subject to fracture and cavities, so it is important to take care in brushing and flossing around crowned teeth to prevent them from needing to be replaced too often.