A crown is an artificial restoration that fits over the remaining part of a prepared tooth, making it strong and giving it the shape of a natural tooth. A crown is sometimes known as a 'cap'.
Crowns are an ideal restoration for teeth that have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. Crowns can also be used to restore teeth that are discoloured, broken or crooked and to close gaps.
Crowns are aesthetically pleasing and can look and feel very natural. Crowns also protect the tooth and once restored can last for many years.
The materials we use nowadays for crowns give a more natural appearance than traditional bulky crowns. Old crowns generally have a poor shade compared to natural teeth and often have a black margin between the crown and the gum.