It is a replacement covering the entire surface of the tooth. It is applied when there is only little healthy tooth tissue left due to caries or injury, or when incisor tooth is fixed due to cosmetic reason.
If there is a space between teeth, crowns and a partial denture is placed on the teeth next to the gap, so missing teeth can be replaced.
Crowns usually reach the edge of gum and are fixed to a so called shoulder prepared by a dentist. This results that crown runs into the tooth without a border, so irritation of the gum can be avoided, moreover restoration remains unrecognizable.
The preparation of a crown or partial denture need a couple of appointments. Preparation of teeth and taking an impress is done during the first appointment.
It may be followed by a tryout, then finally the dentist bonds the crown or partial denture.
According to its material crown can be made of:
It is usually applied for teeth in the sides or back and only for short dentures.
Used only for single crowns. As it looks nice, it is suitable for front teeth as well.
Aesthetic, but inappropriate for partial dentures.
Metal frame can be made of several kind of alloys, even of gold, which is especially good for those who are allergic to more types of metal. It is suitable for single crowns or for partial dentures in any length. Its disadvantage is that it is “lifeless”, especially on the border with the neck where metal is covered by a thin layer of porcelain. It is not the most suitable solution in the case of front teeth due to cosmetic reasons.
It is a nice solution for single crowns and short partial dentures. Fits perfectly on the sides.
This restoration is prepared with the technology described under inlays. It is a highly accurate, aesthetic and the most up-to-date technology.