Dental crowns (“tooth caps”)

Dental crowns are often called tooth caps because that is a great description of what they do. A dental crown is a custom-made piece of porcelain or other durable material that is placed over the top of a tooth. They can be used in a number of different scenarios:

• A large area of decay has occurred that is too large for a filling
• To restore the function and biting surface of worn down, chipped, or fractured teeth
• As a replacement tooth on top of a dental implant
• To anchor a dental bridge in place
• To protect a tooth after it has had root canal therapy
• For cosmetic purposes, such as to enhance the appearance of a permanently stained tooth

Then, we will take dental impressions so that your new crown can be custom-fabricated for a perfect fit. If needed, we will place a temporary crown while your permanent crown is being made. Then, when it is ready, you will come back in to the office and after checking the fit and making any minor adjustments necessary, Dr. Worful will cement it onto your tooth.

To take care of your crown and ensure it lasts as long as possible, it is important to floss daily and maintain routine oral hygiene visits. In addition, chewing on hard objects or clenching and grinding your teeth (bruxism) can damage your crown, so it is important to discuss options such as a sleep mouthguard with Dr. Worful if you suspect you have bruxism.