Dental Crowns:
Protecting and Restoring Your Teeth

When a tooth is damaged by decay, injury, or wear, sometimes a filling isn’t enough to restore it properly. That’s where dental crowns come in. Think of a crown as a “cap” that covers and protects your entire tooth, giving it back its strength, function, and appearance.
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What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering that goes over your entire natural tooth, from the gum line up. It’s custom-made to match your other teeth in size, shape, and color, so it looks completely natural.

Crowns can be made from different materials:

  • Porcelain: Looks most natural, great for front teeth
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Strong and natural-looking
  • Metal alloys: Very durable, usually used for back teeth
  • All-ceramic: Metal-free option for those with allergies

When Might You Need a Crown?

We typically recommend crowns when:

  • A tooth is too damaged for a filling to restore it properly
  • You’ve had a root canal (the tooth needs extra protection)
  • A tooth is severely worn down or cracked
  • You want to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
  • You need to anchor a dental bridge
We’ll always explain why we’re recommending a crown and discuss other options if they exist.

The Crown Process: Step by Step

Getting a crown usually takes two appointments:

First Visit (Preparation)

  • We’ll numb the area so you’re comfortable
  • Remove any decay and shape the tooth to make room for the crown
  • Take impressions or digital scans of your teeth
  • Place a temporary crown to protect your tooth

Between visits

Your permanent crown is custom-made in a dental lab (usually takes 2-3 weeks).

Second Visit (Placement)

  • Remove the temporary crown
  • Check the fit and appearance of your new crown
  • Make any necessary adjustments
  • Cement the crown permanently in place

What to Expect After Getting a Crown

Getting a crown usually takes two appointments:

Immediately after

Your mouth may feel numb for a few hours. Once that wears off, your crown should feel natural.

First few days

You might experience some sensitivity to hot or cold, which should subside quickly.

Long-term

Your crown should feel just like a natural tooth. You can eat, chew, and brush normally.

How Long Do Crowns Last?

With proper care, crowns typically last 10-15 years or even longer.
Their lifespan depends on:

  • Your oral hygiene habits
  • Whether you grind your teeth
  • What you eat and drink
  • Regular check-ups and cleanings

Caring for Your Crown

Good news – 
You care for a crown exactly like a natural tooth:

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily (yes, you still need to floss around crowns!)
  • Come in for regular check-ups and cleanings
  • Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens

Investment and Insurance

Crown costs vary depending on the material and complexity of your case, typically ranging from $800-$1,500. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of crown treatment, especially when it’s needed for functional reasons.

We’ll always:

  • Check your insurance coverage before treatment
  • Provide a clear estimate of your out-of-pocket costs
  • Discuss payment options if needed

Common Questions About Crowns

Is a Crown Right for Your Situation?

The best way to know if you need a crown is to have us examine your tooth and discuss your options. We’ll explain exactly what we see, why we’re making our recommendation, and what would happen if you choose not to treat it.

We believe you should understand all your options before making any decisions about your dental health.

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