If your tooth is damaged but not lost, a crown can be used to restore its shape, appearance and function. You may need a crown if you have a root canal, a large filling in a tooth or a broken tooth.

A crown, also called a cap, is a hollow, artificial tooth used to cover a damaged or decayed tooth. The crown restores the tooth and protects it from further damage. Crowns can also cover a discoloured or misshapen tooth. A tooth fixed with a crown looks and works very much like a natural tooth.

As with your natural teeth, care must be taken to avoid fracture, and with good oral hygiene your crown will last longer. We recommend that you:

Brush and floss around your crowned tooth to remove decay-causing germs
See your dentist regularly to help prolong the life of your crown
Ask your dentist about special cleaning aids

We offer a variety of crowns — metal-free, precious metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) and zirconia. Our dentists will help you find the right one for your situation.