A crown is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. Crowns are often needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth. They are typically bonded to the tooth using a dental cement. Crowns can be made from many materials, ranging from silver metal to gold to porcelain which is the most common crown that appears to be white in color. Crowns typically are made using an indirect method. Meaning an impression or mold of the tooth is taken, sent to a dental lab where a crown is made using the dentist instructions and then cemented in place by the dentist. The outer portion of a crown is mainly made from porcelain. Newer crown materials include zirconia. The inner portion of a crown is determined by the dentist for proper support, cosmetics, and consideration of opposing teeth. These materials include metal, composite, porcelain, and zirconia.
Computers and Crowns
The most common method of crowning a tooth involves using a dental impression of a prepared tooth by a dentist to fabricate the crown outside of the mouth as mentioned above. However, there are new technologies and materials evolving rapidly in this field of dentistry. Computers are increasingly becoming a part of crown and bridge fabrication, such as in CAD/CAM Dentistry. These crowns are made in-office usually in one visit and in a short amount of time. This technology is fairly new in dentistry and is still improving.
Overall, crowns will increase the strength and durability of a compromised tooth. Crowns would also improve the appearance of teeth due to its durable outer coating and strength.