Crowns

What is a crown?

A crown is a protective “cap” for a single tooth. It imitates the normal shape, size and esthetics of the original tooth. As a full coverage restoration, it can be made of gold and/or porcelain. Patients can use the crowned tooth for normal chewing and speaking purposes while meeting esthetic demands.

Why do I need a crown?

All of your teeth play an important role in speaking, chewing and maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Crowns are often recommended for teeth structurally weakened by:

• extensive decay
• deep cracks
• large, old fillings
• broken cusps
• endodontic treatment (root canal therapy).

Sometimes crowns are chosen to enhance a smile by correcting discolored or crooked teeth when veneers or braces have not been selected. You may choose to home whiten prior to crown treatment to achieve the highest esthetics.

What is involved?

In many cases, old, defective restorations are present on the tooth needing a crown. These are removed to ensure that there is not underlying decay or cracks in the teeth. A build-up material is used to replace the missing tooth structure. Dr. Brueggeman or Kopecky will continue preparing the tooth by removing a portion of the surrounding enamel and dentin to make space for the crown. An impression is made and sent to a dental lab for fabrication of the crown. At the end of the first visit, a temporary restoration is placed to hold the tooth position and keep it comfortable. At the second visit, the final crown is cemented.