Restorative

Crowns & Caps

Dental crowns restore damaged teeth to their natural appearance and function. When fillings aren't enough, crowns provide complete coverage and protection for teeth affected by decay, cracks, or wear.

What Are Dental Crowns?

The terms dental crowns and caps are synonymous—they mean the same thing. A crown is a tooth-shaped covering that fits completely over a damaged tooth, restoring both its appearance and function.

When dental decay, cracked fillings, root canals, clenching, or grinding have caused extensive damage to the underlying tooth structure, a dental filling may not be sufficient. The only way to completely restore the cosmetic appearance and function of the tooth is often full coverage with a dental crown.

The good news is that a completed dental crown looks and feels like a natural tooth.

When Do You Need a Crown?

Crowns are versatile restorations that can be used in many situations:

Restoring a damaged tooth when decay or fractures are too extensive for a filling
Protecting a tooth after root canal treatment to prevent further breakdown
Supporting a dental bridge by serving as anchors on either end
Covering a dental implant to replace a missing tooth
Protecting a cracked tooth to prevent further damage
Improving appearance when a tooth is severely discolored or stained

Crown Materials

Crowns can be made from several high-quality materials, each with its own advantages:

Porcelain-fused-to-metal – combines strength with natural appearance
All-porcelain – offers the most natural look, ideal for front teeth
Advanced ceramics – newer materials that provide excellent strength and aesthetics

We'll help you choose the best material for your specific needs, taking into account the tooth's location, your bite, and your aesthetic goals.

What to Expect

Getting a crown typically requires two visits. During the first appointment, we prepare the tooth, take impressions, and place a temporary crown. At the second visit, we remove the temporary and permanently cement your custom-made crown.

Your new crown will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, giving you back a healthy, confident smile.

How it works

Examination and Preparation

We examine your tooth, discuss your options, and prepare the tooth by removing damaged structure and shaping it to receive the crown.

Impressions and Temporary Crown

We take precise impressions of your prepared tooth and place a temporary crown to protect it while your permanent crown is being crafted.

Custom Fabrication

Your crown is custom-made in a dental laboratory to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth.

Final Placement

At your second visit, we remove the temporary crown, check the fit and appearance of your new crown, and permanently cement it in place.

Common questions

Will getting a crown hurt?+

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off is normal and typically resolves within a few days. We'll make sure you're comfortable throughout the entire process.

How long do dental crowns last?+

With proper care and good oral hygiene, dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental checkups, brushing, flossing, and avoiding habits like grinding or chewing ice will help extend the life of your crown.

Can I eat normally with a crown?+

Yes. Once your permanent crown is cemented, you can eat normally. Your crown is designed to withstand normal chewing forces. We do recommend avoiding very hard foods like ice or hard candy that could damage any tooth, crowned or natural.

A closer look

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