Crown

You may have heard of the term “crowns” and wondered what exactly someone is talking about when it comes to dentistry.

When someone has had damage to the top part of the tooth, but does not require a full replacement, the normal course of action is to place a new cap or crown on the top of the tooth.

Here’s a good working definition of what a crown is: A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth – covering the tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and/or to improve its appearance. The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.

Why might you need a crown? In some situations, a crown may be needed for a variety of reasons. The most common application of this treatment is to protect a weak tooth from breaking, or to hold together parts of a cracked tooth. A crown may be used to restore a tooth that has already been broken, or one that has been worn down severely. If a tooth needs to be covered and supported with a large filling, and there is not much of the tooth left, a crown is usually put in. They are also used to help keep dental bridges in place, when needed. Crowns can also be used to cover up discolored teeth, teeth that are not shaped correctly, repair chipped teeth or they can also be used to make a cosmetic modification.