Crowns
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.
Do I need a crown?
A crown is sometimes known as a ‘cap’. 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 or you may have had a root filling which will need a crown to protect what is left of the tooth. A crown may also help hold a bridge or denture firmly in place.
The dentist will prepare the tooth to the ideal shape for the crown. Once the tooth is shaped, the dentist will take an impression (mould) of the prepared tooth. The impressions will then be sent to the dental technician, along with an appropriate shade and other information needed for the crown to be made. A temporary crown will be made so that you can use the tooth while you wait for the final crown to be made. This crown may be more noticeable, but is only a temporary measure. When you and your dentist are happy with the fit and appearance of the new crown it will be fixed in place with special dental cement or adhesive.
