What is a dental crown?
A crown is a common dental restoration used to repair, strengthen and improve the look of a damaged tooth. It is a hollow zirconia or ceramic cap that is cemented onto a previously prepared tooth. This solution is needed when the natural crown of a tooth (the visible part above the gum) has deteriorated and the tooth has weakened, but its foundations are still solid. This can result from a deep cavity, wear, trauma to the mouth or habits such as bruxism. The crown restores the tooth and prevents several other problems.
Possible consequences of damaged teeth
- Further deterioration and weakening of the affected tooth, which can lead to its loss or extraction.
- Greater vulnerability to infection.
- Undue wear of neighbouring and opposing teeth and tissues.
- A less attractive, less even smile because of a tooth that looks out of place.
How a crown restoration works
Dental crowns are custom-made in zirconia or ceramic for a comfortable, natural-looking fit. There are two ways to make them: the traditional procedure and the CEREC technique. With the first, the crown is made in a laboratory, which takes some time, so the full restoration requires two appointments. With CEREC, every step is done the same day, since the crown is milled on site. In both cases, the tooth must first be prepared by removing the weakened parts. This helps the crown bond and fit, making it stronger and better looking. This step, followed by taking dental impressions (used for modelling), is done under local anesthesia. If another appointment is needed (for the traditional procedure), a temporary crown is then placed to protect the prepared tooth and the surrounding structures.
A crown can also be attached to a dental implant. In that case, it serves as a replacement rather than a restoration. It is placed at the end of the implant process.
The advantages of CEREC for making a dental crown
CEREC technology, which we have at our dental clinic in Saint-Eustache, offers our patients many advantages. Thanks to its design software and robotic milling unit, the crown is designed, made and placed in the same appointment. This process also avoids traditional impressions and a temporary crown. What’s more, CEREC restorations are made of high-quality ceramic that makes them durable, strong and attractive!