When a tooth has severe decay, is fractured, or has a large and old filling, a crown may
be necessary. Also referred to as “cap,” a crown covers and binds together the remaining
tooth structure, thereby restoring broken down teeth to proper function and aesthetics.

Crowns are custom crafted in a dental laboratory to precisely fit the teeth, and require
a couple of appointments for completion. During the first visit, any old filling and decay
is drilled and cleaned out, and the tooth is shaped for fitting the crown. A mold is made
of the tooth and sent to the laboratory. The patient is fitted with a temporary crown,
which will be worn until the final visit. At the second and final visit, the crown is placed,
necessary adjustments are made, and the crown is cemented onto the tooth.

Types of crowns

• Porcelain and Reinforced Resin Crowns
  Crowns made from porcelain or fiber-reinforced resin have a lifelike translucency,
  are metal-free, and provide the closest match to existing teeth. Because of their
  natural look, they are particularly suitable for front teeth.
• Porcelain Onlays
  Unlike crowns, an onlay only covers the chewing surface of the tooth. It is a
  means to preserve more of the original tooth, and keep the crown as far away
  from the gum as possible, thereby conserving healthy tooth structure and
  reducing gum inflammation.
• Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
  These crowns have porcelain that is baked onto a metal substructure.
  They are stronger than crowns made entirely of porcelain but they lack the
  translucency of natural teeth. Porcelain crowns fused to metal may be a good
  choice for teeth that are towards the back of the mouth, but that still show when
  one smiles.
• Gold Crowns
  Gold is stronger than porcelain and less likely to chip or crack. Gold crowns
  therefore provide a longer-lasting alternative to porcelain. Gold crowns do not
  have the natural appearance of porcelain, but are superior in all other aspects.
  They are sometimes the only alternative in teeth that are very short as less tooth
  structure needs to be removed in their fabrication.

After an examination, Dr. Arroyo will recommend the most appropriate crown for your
condition and the location of the missing tooth or teeth.