When a tooth is extensively decayed or cannot support a large filling, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. A crown is a hollow prosthesis that fits over the damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance, providing a durable, natural-looking solution.
Your dentist begins by taking alginate impressions of both the upper and lower arches. These models form the basis for both the temporary and permanent crowns. The dentist also selects a shade that matches your natural teeth to ensure a seamless color match. Next, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the lab fabricates your permanent crown.
To make room for the crown's hollow interior, the dentist removes a portion of the tooth's enamel. This step, performed under local anesthesia for comfort, ensures the final crown will not appear bulky and will blend naturally with adjacent teeth. Preparing the tooth properly is the most time-consuming part of the procedure.
After enamel removal, your dentist takes a precise final impression of the prepared tooth. Attention to detail is crucial in this step, as any inaccuracies can affect the fit of the permanent crown. The lab uses this impression to craft a crown that fits snugly over the tooth and aligns perfectly with your bite.
While waiting for your permanent restoration, a temporary crown protects the exposed tooth structure and prevents neighboring teeth from shifting. The temporary crown is made from a durable acrylic material and is cemented in place until your final crown is ready.
Once the lab finishes your custom crown (typically in two weeks), you return for placement. The dentist removes the temporary crown and cleans the prepared tooth, sometimes using local anesthesia for patient comfort. They then check the crown's fit and make slight adjustments for proper bite and optimal aesthetics. Finally, the crown is cemented in place, and you receive care instructions to ensure its longevity.
A dental crown restoration is a multi-step process—from initial impressions and tooth preparation to creating and placing your final crown. By following these steps, you'll enjoy a strong, natural-looking tooth that restores function and protects your oral health. Schedule a consultation with your dentist if you believe a crown is right for you.
