A crown (or cap) is a covering for the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens the tooth.

There are several types of crowns: all ceramic (tooth-colored), all metal or a combination of porcelain fused to metal or zirconium. Zirconium fused to porcelain or all ceramic crowns are utilized for cosmetic areas and all zirconium (also tooth colored) are used on back teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.  Most cosmetic cases are referred to our lab technicians to ensure the best shading possible.

Reasons for crowns :

• Broken or fractured tooth
• Cosmetics
• Decayed teeth
• Fractured fillings
• Large fillings
• Tooth has a root canal

Crowns require two appointments for preparation and placement.

Preparation

The tooth is prepared (decay and fractures removed) and an impression is made. The impression is sent to the lab to custom make your crown. We may ask you to visit the lab for custom shading before the final crown is made.  A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the final crown is ready.

PostOp.

Numbness from anesthetic may last approximately two or more hours.
Avoid chewing gum or sticky food until your next appointment.
Brush gently, and do not floss around the temporary filling or it may become loose.
The teeth and gums may be sensitive. Rinse with warm salt water.
If the temporary crown comes off , please call the office to have it replaced because without it in place, the teeth may shift and the crown may not fit.

Permanent placement

The crown is placed and checked for tight contacts, good fit and correct bite.
The crown is permanently bonded in place.

PostOp.

The teeth may be temperature sensitive for a few days.
Brush and floss like a normal tooth.
The bite should be assessed in the first 48 hours. If it does not feel balanced it should be adjusted as the crown will not ‘wear down’.