A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. There are slightly different types based off different materials including white zirconia, porcelain fused to metal, or all-metal.
Reasons for crowns:
What does getting a crown involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental cleanings to maintain your new crown.
What do I do if my crown came out?
Crowns can come out for a couple of reasons such as a cement failure or fracture of the underlying tooth structure. It’s helpful to keep the dislodged crown in a ziplock bag and call for an emergency appointment as soon as possible. Teeth without crowns can be sensitive and make it easy to trap food. If you are traveling, then sometimes stores such as Walgreens carry temporary cement that can be used for a short period of time until you are able to make an office visit.