A crown or cap is a cover that fits over a tooth that has been damaged by decay, broken, badly stained or misshapen. It is prepared by your dentist, and usually requires more than one visit to complete.
Crowns are made of acrylic, metal, porcelain, or porcelain bonded to metal. All-metal crowns are sometimes used in back teeth for its strength. Preparation for a crown includes freezing the tooth and shaping it to allow the crown to fit over the top. Photos or impressions of the teeth and gums are done, and a temporary crown is fitted to protect the tooth until the finished crown is ready.
On your next visit, the dentist will remove the temporary cap and cement the crown onto the tooth. The crown will closely match the colour and shape of your natural teeth.