What is a dental crown?

May 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

The dental filling I had done previously has been feeling loose lately, and food tends to get stuck when I eat. My dentist says I need a crown. What exactly is a crown? Will getting one resolve my issues?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Chao

The dental crown is the most important and visually apparent part of the tooth structure, and it is also a crucial method in the field of dental restoration.

The shape, size, and color of the dental crown not only affect personal aesthetics but are also directly related to the normal functioning of the oral cavity. From an anatomical perspective, the dental crown is composed of hard tissues, mainly including three layers: enamel, dentin, and cementum. Among these, enamel is the outermost layer and the hardest tissue in the human body, possessing excellent wear resistance that protects the teeth from wear and corrosion.

Dental crowns are also used to restore teeth damaged by various causes, such as dental caries, tooth fractures, or missing teeth. The process of making a dental crown typically involves reshaping the original tooth, taking an impression for customization, and then using a specific bonding method to fix the artificial crown onto the tooth surface, which can not only restore the chewing function but also enhance the tooth's aesthetic appearance.

In daily life, it is recommended to undergo regular oral examinations to promptly detect and address any dental crown issues, thus maintaining good oral hygiene and quality of life.