Dental Crowns

What is a dental crown?
When is one needed?
How long does a crown last?

A dental crown, also commonly called a "cap", is exactly that - a cap that is shaped to fit over a tooth and is cemented into place, effectively becoming the new surface of the tooth. Crowns can be made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.

A crown will restore the proper size, shape, and appearance of a tooth, and provide strength and support for damaged teeth.

A crown may be needed if your tooth:

• has chipped, cracked, or broken off
• has excessively worn down, possibly from damaged enamel, jaw grinding, or age
• had a root canal
• has a large filling and needs extra protection and strength
• has severe decay and there isn't enough tooth structure to support a traditional filling or inlay

Crowns are also used in conjunction with a dental bridge or dental implant to replace a missing tooth or teeth. In the case of a dental implant, the crown is fastened to the abutment of the titanium implant. For a bridge, crowns are placed on the two teeth adjacent to the missing one(s) to anchor and support the dental bridge.

Many people also elect to use crowns for cosmetic dentistry. A porcelain crown can cover a misshaped or discolored tooth and dramatically improve its appearance.

The expected lifespan of a dental crown depends on the material used to make it, the quality of the fitting, and perhaps most importantly, how well you take care of it. A crown provides great support and strength but it is, after all, just a cap cemented on to the remainder of your natural tooth underneath. Excessively sticky or chewy foods like caramels or toffees could cause it to be pulled off, and teeth grinding or abuse to your teeth (like opening bottles or packages) will reduce its longevity. Crowns need the same cleaning and attention as natural teeth. With proper care and reasonable common sense, a crown can be expected to last ten to fifteen years.