
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a tooth or dental implant to restore its function and appearance:
- When to get a crown
- A crown may be needed if a tooth is broken, decayed, worn down, or has a large cavity. Crowns can also be used to cover dental implants or root canal-treated teeth.
- How it’s done
- To fit a crown, the dentist drills down the tooth to create a peg for the crown to attach to. The crown is then fixed in place.
- What it’s made from
- Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, resin, or a combination of materials. Porcelain and zirconia crowns are considered the most aesthetically pleasing because they mimic the look of a natural tooth.
- How long it last
- With proper care, a crown can last 5–15 years. To make a crown last as long as possible, you should maintain good oral hygiene and avoid bad habits.
