When a tooth becomes severely damaged, broken, cracked, or decayed, a simple filling may no longer be enough. When the tooth needs to be dramatically reshaped or reconstructed, a dentist may need to use a crown, which is a permanent covering that fits over a tooth.

 

In most cases, crowns are made of porcelain, gold, or other metals. Many patients prefer porcelain crowns, because they are tooth-colored and therefore look more like a natural tooth. However, metal crowns tend to last longer. No matter what sort of crown you have, you will need to take very good care of your teeth once you have a crown. Daily flossing and brushing as well as regular dental check-ups are essential to ensuring that your crowns last a long time.