Q: What is a Crown and how is it different from a Veneer?

A: A tooth will require a crown only if it has been damaged a great deal and is considered a last option. A crown involves more removal of the infected tooth than a veneer. A veneer will not give the expected results if the damage of the tooth is more. An inlay, onlay or a veneer is recommended if possible over a crown. Q: How are crowns made to fit your tooth?

A: After the tooth has been prepared, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth and send it to a dental laboratory. Technicians in the laboratory use this impression to create a mold of the crown out of wax or metal. Thereafter the prosthetic tooth is created using ceramics or metals.

Q: I've heard of crowns coming off. Why and what causes them to fall off?

A: There can be many reasons for a dental crown to come off. Some reasons might include the crown not being cemented well to the teeth, improper use of cement, saliva contamination, heavy functioning, or poor preparation of the crown. A specific reason for a crown coming off can be known through proper diagnosis.

Q: What are the varieties of crowns available?

A: Many types of crowns are available today, and include metal, ceramic, gold, and porcelain fused metal (PFM) crowns. There are many pros and cons for choosing any of these materials. The selection of a type of crown depends on the patient's situation and/or preference.