The crown is the part of the tooth above the gum. The crown sits on top of the root. A dental crown is a bespoke porcelain replacement for a natural crown.
A crown is a prosthetic (artificial) tooth which sits on top of an original tooth that has been weakened in some way – usually by a large filling, root canal treatment or decay. Dentists will recommend a crown when the strength of your tooth has been compromised and it is no longer possible or satisfactory to place a filling.
A natural tooth consists of a crown and a root. The crown is the part we can see which sits above the gum, while the root is the part we cannot see below the gum. The root secures the tooth to the jaw bone.
Your dental crown will be a bespoke replacement for the natural crown mimicking its size and shape. It will match the colour of your other teeth so that it blends perfectly and feels as natural as the rest.
Made from either porcelain or porcelain bonded to metal, crowns are very strong and can be expected to last for many years provided that they are well maintained and regularly checked.
How long is the process?
The fitting of a crown will take about 2 weeks:
Your old tooth will be cleaned and any decay removed. It will then be reduced to ensure there is just enough room for the new crown to be fitted on top whilst keeping it in line with your other teeth. Impressions of your teeth will be taken and used to produce a crown. A temporary restoration (temporary crown) will be fitted during the interim.
The final crown is manufactured by a dental technician for optimum comfort, strength and appearance, it is then cemented in place by the dentist.