Pronunciation: [tˈuːθ kɹˈa͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The spelling of "tooth crown" is straightforward: "tooth" is spelled as it sounds, with a long "oo" sound and an unvoiced "th" at the end. "Crown" is spelled with a long "ow" sound, an unvoiced "k" sound, and an "n" at the end. In IPA phonetic transcription, "tooth" is written as /tuθ/ and "crown" is written as /kraʊn/. A tooth crown is a cap placed on a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function.
A tooth crown, also known as a dental crown, is a prosthetic device used in dentistry to completely cover or "cap" a damaged or severely decayed tooth. It is custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of the surrounding teeth, thus restoring both the appearance and functionality of the tooth. Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these. The choice of material depends on factors such as the location of the tooth, the extent of damage, and the patient's preferences.
The procedure to place a tooth crown typically involves two main steps. First, the dentist prepares the damaged tooth by removing any decayed or weakened areas, reshaping it to create space for the crown. Impressions are then taken to create an accurate mold of the tooth, which is sent to a dental laboratory for the fabrication of the crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth. At the subsequent appointment, the permanent crown is affixed using dental cement, ensuring a secure and long-lasting restoration.
Tooth crowns serve several purposes, such as strengthening a weak tooth, restoring its natural appearance, improving chewing and speaking abilities, and preventing further damage or decay. They are commonly used to treat teeth with large cavities, fractures, or those that have undergone root canal therapy. With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, a dental crown can last for many years, enhancing the overall health and aesthetics of the patient's smile.
The word "tooth" comes from the Old English word "tōþ", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "tanthuz". This word has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European language, where "dent" or "tooth" was represented by the word "h₃édonts".
The term "crown" originated from the Old French word "corone" and the Latin word "corona", meaning "crown" or "garland". It was used metaphorically to refer to a circular, ornamental headpiece, similar to a crown worn by a ruler.
When these two words, "tooth" and "crown", are combined, "tooth crown" refers to a dental restoration technique where an artificial cap or crown is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and functionality.
