A dental crown is a tooth-shaped prosthetic which is normally used to cover a badly damaged or decayed tooth.
Permanent crowns are available in a number of different materials. Better materials have been developed overtime and the cosmetic appearance these crowns has improved. These materials include:
Temporary crowns are typically made of plastic and are placed until a permanent crown has been fabricated.
Crowns can chip and be damaged over time. If the crown does not fit very well, the cement can wash out from under the crown and bacteria can build up below the crown. If your crown becomes loose, or there is a bad smell from around the tooth, you should visit your dentist for a checkup. Permanent crowns can last for a lifetime if the tooth underneath stays strong and does not develop any cavities. Maintaining good oral hygiene will help your crown to last longer.