A crown (often called a cap) is an artificial cover that restores a decayed or damaged tooth to its normal shape and size.  It is useful for protecting the structure of a tooth that is cracked or broken.  A crown can also be used to change the shape of a tooth, to correct a bite or cosmetic problem, or to replace existing broken or poor-fitting crowns.  A crown may be made of gold, other metals or porcelain.

Preparing For Your Crown

Your dentist prepares your damaged tooth for a crown by reducing and reshaping the tooth so the crown will fit properly.  Then an impression of the prepared tooth and of the surrounding and opposing teeth is taken.  Before you leave the office, Dr. Leowen makes and applies a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth between visits.

Between Visits

Dr. Loewen sends the impression to a dental laboratory that specializes in making crowns.  Expect to wait three weeks between appointments while your crown is being made.  Meanwhile, take care of your temporary crown by avoiding hard or sticky foods.  Floss carefully around the temporary by pulling the floss out from the side of the tooth  -- not the top.

Fitting Your Crown

Dr. Loewen replaces your temporary crown with the permanent one that has been made by the lab.  He places the crown on your prepared tooth, making sure the crown restores the tooth to its proper shape, looks good, and feels comfortable against your opposing teeth.  If necessary, Dr. Loewen will adjust the crown by modifying the shape.  Once you both agree the fit is comfortable, he cements the crown into place.

Living With Your Crown

With good oral hygiene, your crown will last longer.

1. Brush and floss around your crowned tooth thoroughly to remove decay-causing germs.
2. See Dr. Loewen regularly to help prolong the life of your crown.