Tooth Restoration

Crowns & Replacement Crowns

What is a replacement crown?  A replacement crown replaces part or all of the natural crown of a tooth. It is also called a crown or a cap.ยท The visible part of the tooth is called the crown. It is joined to the root of the tooth which is in the jawbone under the gum. When all, or a large part of the original crown of a tooth has been destroyed, a replacement crown is made to restore the tooth. A replacement crown is also made for a healthy tooth when it forms part of a bridge, or when it is used for cosmetic purposes. A natural crown that has become discolored or unsightly can be replaced with a new crown. The new crown can be made to match the surrounding teeth in color, shape and proportion.

How is a replacement crown prepared and made?  The dentist will pare down the tooth, and remove any decay. An impression of the prepared tooth is taken using an elastic material. This is sent to the dental technician, where the replacement crown is made. A temporary acrylic crown will be fitted over the prepared tooth, while the replacement crown is being made. The new crown is then cemented onto the prepared tooth. Replacement crowns can also be used as supports for a bridge, where they are joined to artificial teeth to fill a gap between the teeth.

Before                         After


What are replacement crowns made of?  Replacement crowns may be made of porcelain, gold or a combination of metals. Porcelain can be fused to a metal base, usually gold or silver, when the crown needs added strength, and when a good appearance is required. This is called a porcelain jacket crown. Temporary crowns are made of acrylic.

Porcelain/Metal      Porcelain


Will the pared down tooth be sensitive until I receive my crown?  No, it won't. The dentist will make and install a temporary acrylic crown to protect the pared down tooth. It will look good and be comfortable to eat with.

Preparation            Temporary Crowns    Final Crowns


Is it painful or uncomfortable to have a crown made?  The procedure is not painful because a local anesthetic is used during the preparation of the tooth, and the taking of the impression. Pain relief is seldom necessary after the treatment, though sensitivity to hot and cold sometimes occurs after the crown has been cemented, but this is usually temporary. 


Will replacement crowns make me look good?  Replacement crowns can restore and enhance the appearance of teeth and the smile. They are often used in cosmetic dentistry as part of the treatment. Replacement crowns can be made to look natural, and to match the surrounding teeth.

Before                             After

 


How well will I be able to eat with a replacement crown?  Eating with a replacement crown should be the same as with a natural tooth. With pure porcelain crowns, some care may be necessary.


How successful are replacement crowns?  Replacement crowns are very successful for restoring teeth. They are functional: chewing is comfortable and the same as with natural teeth.  They are as esthetic as they are durable.  They look natural, matching the size, color, and shape of other teeth and are known to last for up to forty years.