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What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, also referred to as a cap, is a restorative device that covers or "caps" a tooth to restore its appearance, size, and shape.
A damaged or decayed tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted and replaced can benefit from dental crowns by strengthening, improving function, and looking better.
Dental crowns can also be used for aesthetic purposes, like to conceal an uneven or discoloured tooth and enhance the overall appearance of your smile.
Because porcelain is frequently used to create crowns, which protect and fortify the remaining tooth structure, they are remarkably durable.
The Crown Procedure
At least two visits are typically necessary at your dentist's office to place a dental crown. Here is what to expect at each appointment if your dentist decides you would benefit from a crown.
The First Appointment
In order to prepare for a crown, your dentist will first examine your mouth and then prepare the tooth.
Your dentist will file down and remove a portion of the tooth's outer layer to prepare it. They will then take an impression of the trimmed tooth and the surrounding teeth before placing a temporary crown over it to protect it.The temporary crown is secured with temporary cement so that it can be easily removed 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.
The laboratory technician can examine all aspects of your bite and jaw movements using your impression and sculpt a crown just for you.Your dentist will also determine the shade of your teeth to assist the technician in creating a crown that matches the colour of the rest of your teeth.
The Second Appointment
When the crown is complete, you will return to your dentist for the second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown on your tooth during this visit.
The permanent crown is first fitted to the tooth and checked for fit, bite, and smooth margins. The crown is cemented with permanent cement or dental glue after any necessary adjustments have been made.
Caring for a Dental Crown
Dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years if properly cared for. Because they are still vulnerable to damage, it is critical to exercise caution when brushing and flossing around crowned teeth to avoid premature replacement.