Crowns
What is a dental crown?
A crown is an artificial restoration that fits over the remaining part of a prepared tooth, making it strong and giving it the shape of a natural tooth. A crown is sometimes known as a ‘cap’.
Why might I need a crown?
Crowns are an ideal restoration for teeth that have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. A crown could be used for a number of other reasons, for instance:
- you may have discoloured fillings and would like to improve the appearance of the tooth
- you may have had a root filling which will need a
- crown to protect what is left of the tooth
How is a crown prepared?
The dentist will prepare the tooth to the ideal shape for the crown. This will involve removing most of the outer surface, and leaving a strong inner core. The amount of the tooth removed will be the same as the thickness of the crown. Once the tooth is shaped, the dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth, one of the opposite jaw and possibly another to mark the way you bite together.
The impressions will then be given to the dental technician, along with an appropriate shade and other information needed for the crown to be made.
What will happen between visits
A temporary plastic crown will be made so that you can use the tooth while you wait for the crown to be made.