Teeth that have broken, that have large defective fillings can be restored to proper form function and appearance with crowns. Crowns can also be used for cosmetic enhancement. Crowns are often needed for teeth that have large metal fillings. Over time the forces of biting and chewing can cause a large portion of the tooth, a cusp, to break.
Two to three appointments are usually needed to make a crown. The shape of the prepared tooth assists in the retention of the crown, so it is often necessary to build up the tooth. The tooth is then prepared so the finished crown has room to slip over it like a glove. An impression is taken of the prepared tooth. A temporary crown is then placed, ending the first appointment. The impression is used by a lab technician to make a model on which the crown is made. Crowns can be all metal, all ceramic or a combination of both.
At the second appointment, the temporary is removed and a dental cement is placed on the new crown. The crown is then cemented to the prepared tooth. The tooth is now restored to a healthy functioning state.
What type of Crown is best? Every case varies, your dentist will make a recommendation. All ceramic crowns are used where aesthetics are a primary concern. All metal crowns are used where strength is required. Ceramic metal crowns are used when a combination of aesthetics and strength is required.
