Dental Crown Procedure

A dental crown procedure involves preparing the tooth by removing a layer of enamel to create space for the crown. The dentist shapes the tooth into a tapered form, takes impressions for the dental laboratory, and places a temporary crown. Digital impressions using intraoral scanners have largely replaced traditional impression materials in modern practices. The dental laboratory fabricates the permanent crown based on the impressions, matching it to the patient's natural tooth color and shape. Materials commonly used include porcelain, zirconia, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. The process typically takes one to two weeks, during which the patient wears the temporary crown. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is tried in for fit, bite, and aesthetics. Once approved, it is cemented or bonded in place. Same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology are also available, allowing the entire procedure to be completed in a single visit.