Student Health Center

Student Emergency Dental Patient Services Education

A crown may be recommended for a tooth that has been weakened by decay, fracture (1) or failure of a large,
previous restoration. The advantages of a crown (c) are derived from its more desirable properties. A crown
can provide the strength necessary to withstand chewing forces. A crown can return the tooth to its original
and more natural size and shape.
The construction of a crown is very precise and generally requires at least two visits. During the fi rst visit, the
damaged tooth is prepared (2) to accept the crown (c). An impression is taken and a temporary crown is put
in place. At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed. The permanent crown is then cemented onto
the prepared tooth (3). If cosmetics are of a concern, white porcelain is baked onto the crown surface.