back A
crown is a restoration that covers, or "caps," a tooth to restore it to
its normal shape and size, strengthening and improving the appearance of
a tooth.
Crowns are necessary when a tooth is generally broken
down and fillings won't solve the problem. If a tooth is cracked, a crown
holds the tooth together to seal the cracks so the damage doesn't get
worse. Crown are also used to support a large filling when there isn't
enough of the tooth remaining, attach a bridge, protect weak teeth from
fracturing, restore fractured teeth, or cover badly shaped or discolored
teeth.
How
is a crown placed?
To prepare the tooth for a crown, it is reduced so the crown can fit over
it. An impression of teeth and gums is made and sent off to the lab for
the crown fabrication. A temporary crown is fitted over the tooth until
the permanent crown is made. On the next visit, the dentist removes the
temporary crown and cements the permanent crown onto the tooth.
Why
crowns and not veneers?
Crowns require more tooth structure removal, hence, they cover more of
the tooth than veneers. Crowns are stationary and are customarily indicated
for teeth that have sustained significant loss of structure, or to replace
missing teeth. Crowns may be placed on natural teeth or dental implants.
Will
it look natural?
Yes. The dentist's main goal is to create crowns that look like natural
teeth. That is why dentists take an impression. To achieve a certain look,
a number of factors are considered, such as the color, bite, shape, and
length of your natural teeth. Any one of these factors alone can affect
your appearance.
If you have a certain cosmetic look in mind for your
crown, discuss it with your dentist at your initial visit. When the procedure
is complete, your teeth will not only be stronger, but they may be more
attractive. back
