A replacement crown replaces part or all of the natural crown of a tooth. It is also called a crown or a cap. The visible part of the tooth is called the crown. It is joined to the root of the tooth which is in the jawbone under the gum. When all, or a large part of the original crown of a tooth has been destroyed, a replacement crown is made to restore the tooth.

What are Indications for a Crown?

• Post Root Canal treatment it is essential to crown teeth as they become brittle & crown Protects these teeth from fracturing.
• Fractured teeth need to be crowned.
• Crowns also form a part of a bridge In case of missing teeth.

How is a replacement crown prepared and made?

• The dentist will prepare the tooth, and remove any decay.
• An impression of the prepared tooth is taken using an elastic material. This is sent to the dental technician, where the replacement crown is made.
• A temporary acrylic crown will be fitted over the prepared tooth, while the replacement crown is being made.
• The new crown is then cemented onto the prepared tooth.
• Replacement crowns can also be used as supports for a bridge , where they are joined to artificial teeth to fill a gap between the teeth.

What are replacement crowns made of?

Crowns can be made of various materials as given below however choice of material in a certain area varies case to case.Metal Crowns

• These are made of an alloy of various metals.
• Very durable but highly unesthetic as they are silver in colour. Not recommended in front teeth.Ceramic or Porcelain fused to metal crowns. Ceramic or Porcelain fused to metal crowns.
• These crowns have a metal backing & have a layer of ceramic fused all over. Metal backing gives strength & ceramic gives it a natural tooth like appearance making it highly aesthetic. Depending on choice of metal there are 2 types of porcelain fused to metal crowns can be made
• a] Non - Precious - Alloy of Ni-Cr is used ceramic crowns.
• b] Precious ceramic
• 18k gold backing is used
• Gold being a malleable metal. These crowns can withstand chewing forces better & is the best available option thought it is slightly expensive because of the gold.
• Metal free Ceramic / Porcelain Crowns
• There a lot of newer materials available to make crowns. These include high strength ceramic or porcelain material which can withstand chewing forces better thereby not requiring any metal backing. These crowns are highly esthetic & natural looking. Various crowns that are available are
• Zirconium crowns
• Emax crowns - based on Sweden based CAD - CAM technology.

Will the pared down tooth be sensitive until I receive my crown?

• No, it won't. The dentist will make and install a temporary acrylic crown to protect the pared down tooth. It will look good and be comfortable to eat with.

Will replacement crowns make me look good?

• Replacement crowns can restore and enhance the appearance of teeth and the smile.
• They are often used in cosmetic dentistry as part of the treatment. Replacement crowns can be made to look natural, and to match the surrounding teeth.

How well will I be able to eat with a replacement crown?

• Eating with a replacement crown should be the same as with a natural tooth. With pure porcelain crowns, some care may be necessary.

How successful are replacement crowns?

• Replacement crowns are very successful for restoring teeth.
• They are functional: chewing is comfortable and the same as with natural teeth.
• They are aesthetic : they look natural and match the size, colour and shape of the other teeth.
• They are aesthetic : they look natural and match the size, colour and shape of the other teeth.
• They are durable: they are known to last a long time.