A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it as close to the original shape, anatomy and size as possible.  A crown protects and improves durability of tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain  or tooth coloured crowns are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth.  They are durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced in the future due to wear, recurrent decay or fracture.  Porcelain crowns are custom made to provide you with an esthetic smile.

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 involve the dentist preparing the tooth by removing sharp edges, decay and older fillings to allow for proper crown fit. Once the tooth is prepared an accurate impression is taken to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory. The temporary crown is cemented with temporary cement and the bite is checked to ensure you are biting properly. The dentist will also note the shade of your teeth in order to customize the colour of the porcelain crown to best match your dentition. If you are thinking of whitening your teeth this is best done prior to the fabrication of your crown(s). Ask your dentist about your whitening options. 

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 anatomy, colour, spacing and bite are accurate. The crown is cemented permanently into place. 

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown. Although crowns are a great restorative treatment, tooth structure not covered under the crown is still susceptible to decay. Decay near the crown margins can spread to underneath the crown thereby compromising the integrity of the tooth structure and eventually the crown. It is important that you take care of your crowns like natural teeth and ensure you brush, floss and maintain routine dental check-ups and cleanings to help prevent future decay. 

 Call us to book your consultation!