Overview
Natural teeth may be damaged
by a variety of reasons
including tooth decay, trauma
and excessive wear. Dentists are
able to save heavily restored or
structurally weak teeth back to
their original colour and shape
using a variety of techniques
which include crowns and
veneers.
A crown is a cap placed over a tooth
and held in place by dental adhesive
or cement. Crowns are fabricated
in the laboratory using different
materials including plastic, ceramic
or metal alloys. These materials make
it possible to maximise strength and
simulate the appearance and colour
of natural teeth.
Procedure
At the first appointment, the
dentist conducts a thorough
clinical examination using
radiographs. The suitability
for crowns is assessed and any
preparatory work is carried out.
Your dentist will also be able
to advise on material choices,
treatment sequence and any other
concerns you may have.
At the second appointment,
the teeth to be crowned are
prepared. This involves reduction
of the tooth size (usually under
local anaesthesia) followed by
an impression or mould of the
prepared tooth. This trimming
of the tooth is required to create
space for the crown to be fitted.
The mould is then sent to a
laboratory where skilled technicians
will fabricate the crown. Meanwhile,
a temporary crown is made and
fitted onto the trimmed tooth.
At the third appointment, the
temporary crown is removed and
the tooth surfaces cleaned. The
completed crown is tried on for
fit, harmony with the bite and
appearance. The crown is finally
cemented onto the prepared tooth
with dental cement.
Daily brushing and flossing are
essential for good oral health as
well as to keep the crown troublefree.
The most vulnerable part of
the crown is the margin or junction
between the tooth and crown.
