A crown is a restoration that covers, or “caps,” a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size, strengthening and improving the appearance of a tooth. Crowns are necessary when a tooth is generally broken down and fillings won’t solve the problem. If a tooth is cracked, a crown holds the tooth together to seal the cracks so the damage doesn’t get worse. Crowns are also used to restore a tooth when there isn’t enough of the tooth remaining to provide support for a large filling, protect weak teeth from fracturing, restore fractured teeth or cover badly shaped or discolored teeth.
Bridges are multiple crowns connected as one piece to replace missing teeth.
Crowns and bridges can be made of gold, a combination of gold and porcelain, or all porcelain. There are advantages and disadvantages with each material. Your dentist will help you choose the material that best meets your needs.
To prepare the tooth for a crown, it is reduced so the crown can fit over it. Our office is proud to use CEREC technology. In almost all cases your crown can be completed in one two-hour appointment.
Why crowns and not veneers?
Crowns require more tooth structure removal, hence they cover more of the tooth than veneers. Crowns are customarily indicated for teeth that have sustained significant loss of structure or to replace missing teeth. Crowns may be placed on natural teeth or dental implants.
What is the difference between a cap and a crown?
There is no difference between a cap and a crown.
How long do crowns last?
The average lifespan of a crown or bridge is 7-12 years. However, with good oral hygiene and supervision, most crowns will last for a much longer period of time. Some damaging habits like grinding your teeth, chewing ice or fingernail biting may cause this period of time to decrease significantly.
How should I take care of my crown?
To prevent damaging or fracturing the crown, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects. You also want to avoid teeth grinding. A night guard may be required for protection if you are a night-time grinder. Besides visiting your dentist and brushing daily, cleaning between your teeth is vital with crowns. Floss or interdental cleaners (specially shaped brushes and sticks) are important tools to remove plaque from the crown area where the gum meets the tooth. Plaque in that area can cause dental decay and gum disease.
