When a tooth is cracked, decayed, or damaged a crown may need to be fitted onto the tooth. A crown is a permanent covering that fits the original tooth. Crowns can be made of porcelain, gold, or other metals, acrylic resin, or- a mix- of these materials. Porcelain crowns typically have the most realistic appearance and the newest porcelain is as durable as other materials. Crowns can lighten, reshape, and realign existing teeth creating a healthy and vibrant smile.

Preparing the Tooth and Crown
During your first visit, the dentist will numb the tooth or teeth to be crowned and remove the decay around it. Each tooth is the resculpted to provide and easy fit for the crown. This is a painless process generally performed in one visit.

An impression of your teeth is then taken and sent to the dental lab where permanent, custom-made crowns are created (this usually takes one or two weeks). During this interim period, temporary crowns made of an acrylic resin are fitted onto teeth.

Applying the Crown
On your next visit, the dentist removes the temporary crown and fits the permanent crown onto teeth. He or she makes sure the crown has the proper look and fit, and then cements the crown in place.

Maintaining Your New Crown
The proper dental hygiene for normal teeth should be applied to your new crown. Daily brushing and flossing will help keep teeth, gums, and new crown free from the bacteria that can cause gum disease. Avoid chewing on the hard foods such as ice or pistachios, which over time can cause crowns to crack or break. Given proper care, crowns can last several decades, and may last a lifetime.