If you have a tooth that’s cracked, worn down, or too damaged for a simple filling, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. This custom-made cap covers your natural tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It also improves the way your tooth looks and works. Crowns are made from durable materials like porcelain, zirconia, or a porcelain-metal blend, and they’re designed to blend in with the rest of your smile.
Why You Might Need a Crown
Crowns are used in a variety of dental situations. You may need one to:
- Protect a weak tooth from further damage
- Restore a tooth that’s already broken or severely decayed
- Cover a tooth after a root canal
- Anchor a dental bridge in place
- Improve the appearance of a stained or misshapen tooth
- Provide support for a dental implant
If you have any of these issues, your dentist may suggest a crown as part of your treatment plan. In more complex cases, they might refer you to a prosthodontist, who is a dentist who specializes in tooth restoration.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A typical crown procedure takes one or two appointments, depending on the technology your dental office uses.
At your first visit, your dentist will numb the area and reshape your tooth. This involves removing a thin layer of enamel to make space for the crown. If your tooth is badly worn or broken, they might add some filling material to build it up before shaping it.
Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will take an impression. This could be done using a traditional mold or a digital scanner. These details are then sent to a dental lab where your crown is custom-made. Matching the crown to your natural tooth color is also part of the process.
In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary crown to protect your tooth. The lab work usually takes two to three weeks. Once your crown is ready, you’ll return for a second appointment where the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent one is bonded into place using dental cement.
Some offices offer same-day crowns made using a CEREC machine. In these cases, the entire procedure, from scanning to placement, can be done in one visit.
Caring for Your New Crown
Even though your crown itself won’t decay, the tooth underneath still can. It’s important to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and keep up with routine dental checkups.
Avoid biting hard objects or chewing on ice, especially if your crown is made of porcelain. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist if a custom night guard is right for you.
Possible Risks and Considerations
Crowns are safe and reliable, but no procedure is without some risk. You might experience temporary sensitivity after the tooth is prepared. In rare cases, there can be issues with cement bonding, infection, or inflammation. Let your dentist know if you notice any discomfort or if the crown feels loose.