crowns

Before		After

Crowns are full coverage restorations that are used to cover a tooth that is likely to break or is too broken down to be restored with a filling. They are most commonly done because of a large filling or fractures in the tooth. A crown is also placed after root canal treatment (refer to root canal treatment).  Even after a filling is placed in a large cavity, a tooth is more likely to break. A broken or cracked tooth is a far more serious matter and much more difficult to treat. Keep in mind that the jaw muscles are the strongest in the human body. Teeth are subjected to tremendous pressures. Crowns cover the weakened tooth, providing strength and protecting the tooth against breakage.

Before		After

It takes two appointments to restore a tooth with a crown. At the first appointment, any decay is removed from the tooth and it is shaped to fit the crown. Then an impression is made of the tooth for use in fabricating the crown. Between the two visits the crown is made, usually of high-strength porcelain over gold alloy, all ceramic material, or gold. During this time a temporary crown is worn. In the second visit, the temporary is removed, and the permanent crown is adjusted as needed and cemented in place.