Abstract: A device for use in attaching artificial teeth to the bone which supports the natural teeth. The device may have an anchoring member comprising a tooth support receiving member, at least one arm extending laterally from the member, means for coupling the arm with the bone and a spike adapted to be lodged into the bone and extending outwardly from the receiving member. In addition to an anchoring member, the device may comprise a tooth support adapted to be removably positioned upon the anchoring member and designed to allow for limited movement of the artificial teeth.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in preparing both metal and porcelain dental crowns. The apparatus has a plurality of upright supports and arms coupled therewith that are moved to contact with the tooth opposing the tooth to be crowned in the proper occlusal locations such that when the permanent crown is prepared it has all of the proper occlusal characteristics of the opposing dental structure. The apparatus is intended for use in and with a replica of the patient's dental structures. The apparatus has a plurality of pathways upon which the upright supports may be moved so as to position the supports in the proper contact points. Methods for utilizing the apparatus when preparing metal and porcelain crowns are also provided. A preformed, imitation dental crown having four layers for use in preparing porcelain crowns where each layer corresponds to one of the layers of porcelain or metal necessary to prepare the finished porcelain crown is also provided.