Fixed Restoration Dental Traditional Work From Start to End in Dental Lab Crown and Bridge

A crown is basically a cap for a damaged tooth. It can be made from a variety of materials, including metal or porcelain.

You might have a crown over a molar that rarely shows, except when you yawn widely, or you might have crowns on your front teeth that were specifically designed to match your other teeth.

Several factors are important to consider when choosing a crown, including:

• cost
• strength
• durability

A natural appearance that doesn't detract from your smile may also be a priority for you. A dentist can discuss the various options and help you to figure out what best meets your needs.

Types of dental crowns

Different kinds of materials can be used in crowns, including:

• porcelain
• ceramic
• zirconia
• metal
• composite resin
• a combination of materials

For example, you could have a porcelain crown that's fused to metal, as opposed to an all-porcelain crown.

When selecting the material for your crown, your dentist will consider factors such as:

• your tooth's location
• how much of the tooth will show when you smile
• position of your gum tissue
• function of the tooth that needs the crown
• how much natural tooth is remaining
• color of the surrounding teeth

You can also talk with your dentist about your personal preference.

Temporary crown

A temporary crown is exactly what it sounds like. It's a crown that'll only remain in your mouth for a short period of time.

Your dentist will place it over your tooth with an adhesive that's easily removed, so it won't be as strong as a permanent crown.

This is done while you're waiting for a permanent crown to be made. The permanent crown will be placed on your tooth at a second appointment.

One-day crown

You can get a crown in a single appointment.

Some dental offices offer same-day crown installation using one of several methods involving computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM).

Your new crown is designed and milled from a block of ceramic right there in the office.

Onlay or 3/4 crown

Some crowns only cover a portion of the tooth. If you don't need a full crown, your dentist might suggest an onlay or 3/4 crown instead.

Who needs a crown?

If you have a large cavity that's too big for a filling, it may be time for a crown.

You may also need a crown if your tooth is:

• severely worn down
• cracked
• weakened

Crowns are also recommended following a root canal on a tooth, because the tooth is more fragile and needs protection.

You may be a candidate for a crown if you're missing a tooth, and the dentist needs to put in a dental bridge or a tooth implant.