A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made of porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials.
Crowns are used when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired with a filling, inlay, or onlay. They are also used to protect a weakened tooth after a root canal or to support a dental bridge.
The process of getting a crown typically involves two appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the damaged tooth by removing any decay or old filling material and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression of the tooth and the surrounding teeth will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the crown will be custom-made to fit the patient's mouth.
During the second appointment, the crown will be cemented onto the prepared tooth with a special dental adhesive. The dentist will check to make sure the crown fits properly and feels comfortable before permanently attaching it.
Crowns can last for many years with proper care, including regular brushing and flossing and routine dental checkups.