A crown is a cover fitted over a damaged tooth to restore its shape and strength. It is used when too much tooth structure has been lost for a filling to be reliable — after a large fracture, extensive decay, or root canal treatment.
Crowns are made in several materials. Ceramic looks most like natural enamel, metal is strongest, and porcelain-fused-to-metal sits between the two. Which is appropriate depends on which tooth it is and how much force it takes.
What treatment involves
- 01
Preparation
The tooth is shaped to receive the crown, and a scan or impression is taken so the crown fits precisely.
- 02
Temporary crown
A temporary crown protects the tooth while the permanent one is made.
- 03
Fitting
The permanent crown is checked for fit, bite, and appearance, adjusted as needed, and cemented into place.
Good to know
- A crowned tooth can still decay at the margin where crown meets tooth. It needs cleaning and flossing like any other.
- Avoid biting very hard objects on a crowned tooth — ice, bones, or opening packaging.
- Tell us if your bite feels high or uneven after fitting; that is adjustable and should not be left.