Crowns

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. A crown is sometimes known as a 'cap'. The crown can last for many years depending on the health of the gum and tooth underneath. Crowns are an ideal restoration for teeth that have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. A crown can also be used where there are discoloured fillings, to improve the appearance of the tooth as well as where a tooth has had a root filling and will need a crown to protect what is left of the tooth. A back tooth crown has to be stronger than a front tooth crown and is therefore made from a material that is able to withstand the chewing forces likely to be placed on it.  This is not as important for a front tooth, which can therefore be made from a material which is more cosmetic.

Treatment:

• The first visit is to prepare tooth and take impressions (moulds) to send to the Dental Laboratory
• The crown is tried in.  The fit, appearance and bite are all checked, if everything is ok, the crown is fitted with dental cement.  If not, it is sent back to laboratory for changes to be made.  It can then be fitted at next visit.  It may take several visits to get appearance correct.
• A review appointment may be required to reassess bite and make sure no excess cement which can cause problems with gum health.