A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

There are several types of crowns. Gold crowns are the most durable. We may recommend gold in areas of your mouth with high bite force. Porcelain (tooth colored crowns) are the most popular type of crown. They are made to match the color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile. Some porcelain crowns have metal underneath the porcelain and some have hard ceramic cores. We will make our recommendations for the type of crown depending on your specific needs.

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.
• Tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include shaping the tooth and taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.