A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fully covers a tooth to protect it and restore its function. It becomes necessary when the tooth is too damaged for a simple filling — after a significant fracture, severe wear, or to protect a root-canal-treated tooth.
Placing a crown is usually done over two visits: the first to prepare the tooth and take impressions, the second to place the final custom-made crown. In between, a temporary crown protects the prepared tooth.
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Protects a Weakened Tooth
A tooth weakened by a fracture or root canal is at risk of breaking further without protection; the crown spreads out chewing forces.
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Natural Appearance
Modern ceramic crowns reproduce the shade and translucency of your surrounding natural teeth.
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A Durable Solution
With proper care, a well-placed crown can last many years, even decades.
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Restores Full Function
A crowned tooth regains its full chewing capacity, unlike a cracked tooth that you'd otherwise avoid using.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How long does a dental crown last?
With good hygiene habits and regular follow-up, a crown can last many years. Its lifespan depends on the material, its location in the mouth, and daily wear.
Is getting a crown painful?
Preparing the tooth is done under local anesthesia. Some sensitivity is possible during the period with the temporary crown, but the procedure itself is not painful.
What's the difference between a crown and a filling?
A filling fills in a portion of a tooth damaged by decay, while a crown fully covers the tooth when the damage is too extensive for a filling alone.
A Weakened Tooth to Protect?
Let's discuss the best solution to restore your tooth.