A crown is a replacement outer covering, much like a thimble, that fits over and strengthens a tooth and restores its appearance and function. A crown is needed if a tooth has been extensively damaged by:

  • Tooth decay
  • Fractured or broken section of a tooth
  • An old, large filling that is coming apart or failing

Types of Crowns

There are different types of crowns for different purposes. The most common type of crown is a porcelain crown with a ceramic, or sometimes metallic, core to give it strength. These crowns are very strong and look like a natural tooth. The metal inside the crown is often an alloy of gold. On the back teeth, or molars, especially where it is difficult to see, a gold crown is often the perfect choice because of its strength and durability (average durability is 20-40 years with good hygiene and dental care).

The procedure for affixing a crown:

  1. Shaping the tooth to remove the decay in or around it.
  2. Re-sculpturing the tooth to provide an ideal fit for the crown.
  3. Making a digital image of your teeth in order to create a custom-made crown.
  4. Making a temporary crown out of tooth colored resin and fitting it onto the tooth during the interim period until the permanent custom-made crown is being created.
  5. Applying the permanent crown when it is received from the lab by removing the temporary crown and fitting the permanent one onto the tooth.
  6. After ensuring that the crown has the proper look and fit, the dentist cements it into place.

Crowns can be expected to last for a number of years providing the person performs good oral hygiene and has regular professional care. If you are in need of a crown, please contact our Gladstone and Kansas City dentists today to schedule your initial appointment.

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