Crowns in dentistry are caps that completely cover a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They're typically used when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired with a filling, or to protect a weak tooth from breaking.
There are different types of crowns, including:
- Porcelain: Often used for front teeth due to their natural appearance and colour.
- Ceramic: Also aesthetically pleasing, with a natural look, but might not be as durable for back teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Offers a good balance of strength and appearance.
- Zirconia crown: Zirconia crowns are particularly popular because they’re strong enough to withstand the pressure from chewing, and they also blend in well with the natural colour of your teeth.
- Emax crown: Emax crowns are made from a highly durable and aesthetic material often used for crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays. They're known for their strength and natural appearance, making them a popular choice for both front and back teeth.
The process of getting a crown typically involves two visits: one for shaping the tooth and taking impressions, and another to place the permanent crown.