Crowns are full coverage restorations that are used to cover a tooth that is likely to break or is too broken down to be restored with a filling. They are most commonly done after root canal treatment or when a large filling needs to be replaced. The larger the hole made by a cavity, the more likely a crown will be needed. Even after a filling is put in a large cavity, a tooth is more likely to break. Keep in mind that the jaw muscles are the strongest in the human body. Teeth are subjected to tremendous pressures. Crowns encircle the weakened tooth, providing strength and protecting the tooth against breakage. A broken or cracked tooth is a far more serious matter and much more difficult to treat. Crowns can prevent this.

It takes two appointments to restore a tooth with a crown. At the first appointment, any decay is removed from the tooth, and it is shaped to accept the crown. Then, an impression is made of the tooth for use in fabricating a crown. Between the two visits, the crown is made usually of high-strength porcelain over metal alloy, all ceramic material, or all gold. During this time, a temporary crown is worn. In the second visit, this temporary is removed. Then, the permanent crown is adjusted as needed and cemented in place.