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Dental Crowns

What are Dental Crowns and How Do They Work?

Dental crowns are fixed prosthetic restorations made to restore a damaged tooth to its original shape and size. They’re permanently cemented on teeth that have cracked, extensively decayed, or otherwise been damaged. Although they sometimes extend down onto the root surface, crowns essentially replace the outer aspect of the “crown” part of a natural tooth, so it makes sense that the restorations are called “crowns.”

When affixed, the crown fully encases the portion of the damaged tooth that sits above the gum line. Crowns are custom made to fit over each tooth. They can be made of a variety of different materials, including ceramics, porcelain-and-metal, gold, or resin.

Crowns fit on teeth much the same way sewing thimbles fit on fingertips – they fit over the top of a tooth and protect what’s underneath it. They’re cemented in place and, once affixed, act as a new top for the tooth while holding it together and keeping it from breaking apart.

Crowns are constructed of very resilient and durable materials. They’re designed to endure the traumas of chewing just as effectively as the rest of your teeth. Think of a crown as a cover for the top (visible) portion of your tooth. After the dentist cements the crown to your damaged tooth, it essentially becomes a part of that tooth.

How long do dental crowns last?

On average, dental crowns last between five and 15 years. The life span of a crown depends on the amount of wear and tear the crown takes, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices and your personal mouth-related habits.

Dental Crowns Faq