A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the
entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size. A
crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored
with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns,
porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular, because they
resemble your natural teeth. There are two main types of porcelain crowns: all porcelain (e.g. e.max™) and porcelain fused to metal. The trend today is to use all porcelain crowns and even bridges when possible because they look the most natural. However, certain conditions demand porcelain fused to metal crowns.
There are still times an all gold crown is used. In terms of durability, there is no crown that can match it (you cannot chip an all metal crown). The one drawback it has is appearance, and therefore is generally recommended only for second molars, especially the uppers since most people's cheek completely hides this tooth even when smiling or laughing.
Reasons for crowns:
What does getting a crown involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two
appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly
accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom
crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will
stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is
fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, Dr. Brusky will
prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to
properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your
temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will
be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown
will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be
carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.