Crowns (Caps)
CROWNS
A Crown (often called a cap) is an artificial cover that restores a decayed or damaged tooth to its normal shape and size. It is useful for protecting the structure of a tooth that is cracked or broken. A crown fits over your tooth like a thimble fits over your finger. A crown can also be used to change the shape of a tooth, to change the color of a tooth, to correct a bite, to correct cosmetic problem, or to replace existing broken or poor fitting crowns. A crown may be made of gold, other metals or porcelain.
On this page we will cover the specifics of crowns, but we also encourage you to look at our pages on "CEREC". This technology is the wave of the future in restorative dentistry. CEREC offers the promise of avoiding crowns altogether, saving more of your mouth's original healthy enamel. In our practice, before 2003, we used to do at least 2 crowns each day. Now we don't do even 2 crowns a month. Conservative CEREC onlays are a much better option 90% of the time
For very, very debilitated teeth extraction may be the best option. But be sure to replace the missing tooth.. On that link you will find some important information about those options.
When crowns are still the best options and here is the scoop:
Preparing for Your Crown
Your Dentist prepares your damaged tooth for a crown by reducing and reshaping the tooth so the crown will fit properly. Then an impression of the prepared tooth and of the surrounding and opposing teeth is taken. before you leave the office, your dentist makes and applies a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth between visits.
Fitting Your Crown
Your dentist replaces your temporary crown with the permanent one that has been made by the lab. He or she places the crown on your prepared tooth, making sure the crown restores the tooth to its proper shape, looks good, and feels comfortable against your opposing teeth. If necessary, your dentist cements the crown into place. If the crown needs further changes by the lab, additional visits will be necessary
Between Visits
Your dentist sends the impression to a dental laboratory that specializes in making crowns. Expect to wait two to three weeks between appointments while your crown is being made. Meanwhile, take care of your temporary crown by avoiding hard and sticky foods. Floss carefully around the temporary by pulling the floss out from the side of the teeth -- not the top. If the crown becomes loose call your dentist, so the prepared tooth won't be damaged.
Living with Your Crown
With good oral hygiene, your crown will last longer.
- Brush and floss around your crowned tooth thoroughly to remove decay-causing germs.
- See your dentist regularly to help prolong the life of your crown.
- Ask your dentist about special cleaning aids.