A dental crown, placed over a damaged or decayed tooth, serves as a cap-like cover, restoring its shape, size, and strength while also improving its appearance. This protective measure enables the tooth to continue to function normally.
Dental crowns are recommended when a tooth has cracks or has lost a significant amount of tooth structure or following root canals. Crowns can be viewed similar to a cap or covering that encloses a weakened tooth thereby prolonging its life.
Commonly, crowns are prepared and placed over two visits. During the first appointment the tooth is prepared and a mould and colour match taken. The mould is then sent to a laboratory that fabricates the crown. Crowns can be made using a range of materials such as tooth coloured porcelain or gold alloys.