A dental crown (also called a cap) covers the entire surface area of the tooth and is used to restore teeth that have lost their structure due to decay, breakage or fracture. They are used to restore a tooth that has lost more tooth structure than a filling can replace. Crowns are also used when large fillings require replacement or to restore the shape and size of a tooth. Several types of materials can be used for your crown, including porcelain, porcelain fused to a metal substructure or gold, depending on your needs and/or preferences.
Completing a crown usually takes two appointments. During the first appointment, the tooth is prepared and any decay is removed. A temporary crown will be made to protect the tooth in between appointments. Several impressions (molds) of your teeth will be taken in order to create a customized crown for your tooth. This information is then sent to our laboratory to create a crown that feels as natural as your other teeth! At the second appointment, the new permanent crown will be checked to ensure a perfect fit and then secured into place.