Crowns

Crowns are full coverage restorations that are used to cover a tooth that is likely to break; the tooth may also be too damaged to be restored with a filling. Crowns are most commonly performed after root canal treatment or when a large filling reaches its expiration. The larger the hole made by a cavity that has to be treated, the more likely a crown will be needed. Even after a filling is placed in a large cavity, a tooth is more prone to breakdown. Keep in mind that the jaw muscles are the strongest in the human body and that teeth are subjected to tremendous pressures. Crowns overlay the weakened tooth, providing strength and protecting the tooth against breakage. A broken or cracked tooth is a far more serious matter and much more difficult to treat. 

It takes two appointments to restore a tooth with a crown. In the first, any decay is removed from the tooth and it is built up and shaped to accept the crown. Next, an impression is made of the tooth for use in fabricating a crown. Between the two visits, the crown is made. During this time a temporary crown is worn. In the second visit, this temporary is removed. Finally, the permanent crown is adjusted as needed and then cemented in place.