A dental crown is one of the most common procedures in dentistry. It's a custom-made restoration that protects a damaged tooth — whether it's broken, cracked, or has a large cavity that a filling alone can't address.
What Does a Dental Crown Look Like?
A dental crown looks like a natural tooth. It covers the entire visible portion of the tooth down to the gumline. Metal crowns are obviously metallic in appearance, but resin and ceramic crowns can be precisely color-matched to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including gold, silver, stainless steel, resin, and ceramic. Resin and ceramic are popular for visible teeth because they can be color-matched for a natural look.
What Is a Partial Crown?
A partial crown, also known as a dental onlay, is used when a tooth isn't damaged enough to require a full crown. An onlay fits over just the side or portion of the tooth that needs protection. Because it doesn't require filing down the entire tooth, an onlay allows you to keep more of your healthy enamel.
What Is the Difference Between a Cap and a Crown?
Trick question — they're the same thing! "Cap" is simply the informal term used by many patients. It actually describes the function quite accurately, since a crown caps the damaged tooth to protect it.
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