Dental crowns are a common restoration used in dentistry. They serve not only to restore a tooth to its full natural function, but also to protect the underlying tooth. They can even serve a cosmetic role and help enhance a patient’s smile. Crowns are often necessary if a tooth has had a previous root canal, if a large portion of the tooth is damaged or broken due to decay or trauma, or if an existing filling has broken down. If it is determined that you would benefit from having a crown placed, two appointments will be scheduled. The first appointment involves removing any decay or damaged tissue and shaping the tooth so that the crown can fit over it snugly. Once the tooth is properly prepared, a digital scan is taken to create a 3D model of the teeth and sent to the lab for fabrication. This eliminates the need for goopy impressions, and results in a more accurate fit of the crown. A temporary crown will be placed to protect the natural tooth while waiting for your final crown to be ready. The second appointment, typically 1-2 weeks later, involves simply bonding the final crown onto the prepared tooth. Crowns can easily last many years when properly cared for.