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.
Crowns can be made of a variety of materials including porcelain fused to metal, all porcelain, or gold. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for crowns:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Decayed teeth
- Fractured fillings
- Large fillings
- Tooth has a root canal
What does getting a crown involve?
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, a temporary crown will be placed which you will wear for several weeks while the permanent crown is being fabricated.
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 visits to check your new crown.
What does getting a CEREC® crown involve?
While the tooth is numb, we will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the tooth surface. We will then apply a reflective powder to the tooth to prepare it for imaging. Next, a 3D image is acquired with a small camera, directly in your mouth. We then design the restoration on the computer and diamond coated instruments mill a ceramic block to reproduce the design. Finally, the new porcelain restoration is polished and bonded in place. Because these Cerec restorations are made of a special ceramic material, they blend very well with your teeth and create a beautiful and extremely strong result. This whole procedure accomplished during a single visit, in about an hour using this amazing CAD/CAM technology.
