Crown or Onlay

The tooth has a complex anatomy. The part that protrudes from the gum and makes up our smile is called the crown. When it is damaged, it can be treated or protected with a prosthetic crown or onlay.

The manufacture of a dental crown:

The crown is a custom-made prosthesis made of ceramic, composite resin or a combination of metal (gold-based alloy) and ceramic. Each of these materials has its own unique characteristics and meets specific needs in terms of functionality, aesthetics and strength.

The structure is made in a laboratory to restore the shape and function of a damaged tooth. The dentist will first prepare the tooth (size reduction) and take an impression (copy) to allow the laboratory to design the crown.

Many situations may require the use of a dental crown:

• A root canal treatment on a highly restored tooth
• A major restoration
• A damaged, cracked or fractured tooth (if restorable)
• A discoloured or improperly shaped tooth
• Preventing deterioration

The placement of a crown generally requires two sessions

First, an impression of the tooth to be treated is taken. The tooth is trimmed and then a temporary crown is placed.

A few weeks later, the permanent crown is cemented in the mouth. We check the fit, colour and shape so that the tooth returns to its original appearance.

The advantage of this procedure is that it avoids extraction. Such a restoration takes about 10 years and requires good oral hygiene habits. Depending on your situation, it may even last longer.