A crown is a covering that encases the entire tooth, restoring it to its original shape and size.  Crowns are a good treatment option when the integrity of a tooth has been damaged to the point where fillings or other types of restorations cannot properly repair it.  They are also commonly done after root canal treatment.

 Placing a crown will generally require two appointments.  At the first appointment, the decay will be removed and the remaining surface will be shaped.  A mold, otherwise known as an impression, will be taken of the tooth for creating your custom crown.  A temporary crown will be made and cemented in place.  This will function for you as a normal tooth for about three weeks while your permanent crown is fabricated at the dental lab.  Once the permanent crown is finished, you will return to the office to have your new crown permanently cemented.  The high durability of crowns helps them to last many years, but they may eventually need to be replaced.