Crowns are a common dental restoration, used to correct a variety of imperfections. Usually made from ceramic, a crown is essentially a cap that covers the entire surface of a damaged or weakened tooth, and restore it to a normal appearance.

What Does a Crown Fix?

Crowns can be used to fix a variety of issues:

Crown Process

Getting a crown takes two visits. During your first visit, you will first receive a local anesthetic. Once it has taken effect, the tooth is prepared. This process involves shaving down the tooth (removing enamel) so that the crown fits in comfortably and naturally.

Your dentist uses a guide to match the color of your teeth and takes an impression. Both the color and the impression are sent to a lab to create your tooth. While you wait (it takes up to two weeks), you will be given a temporary crown to hold the space and prevent contamination. When your crown is ready, your dentist will check the fit and cement it in place.

Caring for Your Crown

Care for your crown is no different than care for your natural teeth. It can withstand normal biting and chewing forces, but you should avoid anything exceptionally hard, such as ice or popcorn kernels.

And while a crown cannot experience tooth decay, it can still collect plaque, and therefore bacteria, which can contribute to gum disease. For this reason, it is still just as important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. And you should visit your dentist regularly, for cleanings and exams.

Crowns do not require special care, but they still require care. And if you notice anything wrong with your crown, or your teeth and gums around it, contact our office right away.