DENTAL CROWNS

Dental crowns,
care for the tooth you have.

A cracked tooth. A large filling. A tooth that needs more support. A crown may help protect what's left and restore its shape and function.

You don't need to know the answer before you come in. Tell us what has been bothering you, and we'll look at your tooth and explain your choices.

WHAT A CROWN DOES

Protection, shaped around your tooth.

What is a crown?

A crown is a tooth-shaped covering, sometimes called a cap, that fits over a prepared tooth. It can help rebuild a tooth that has been damaged or weakened, and improve its appearance.

A crown is different from a veneer, which covers the front of a tooth. A crown can also be the final tooth on a dental implant; the implant itself is placed by an oral surgeon.

IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

Start with the reason, not the treatment.

When a crown may help

A tooth with a large filling and little remaining support, a broken or weakened tooth, or some teeth after root canal treatment may benefit from a crown.

We check the tooth, gums and bite before recommending treatment. A crown is not the right answer for every tooth.

What about a filling instead?

If enough healthy tooth remains, a filling or another restoration may be an option. If the tooth cannot be restored, we will explain the alternatives.

Ask what each option would protect, what preparation it needs, and what care it will need over time.

HOW IT WORKS

A clear plan, one step at a time.

These are the usual steps, not a promise about the number of appointments. Your dentist will explain the visits and timing for your own tooth.

  1. Understand your tooth

    We examine the tooth and discuss why a crown might help, whether other treatment is needed, and the alternatives. You review a written treatment plan before deciding.

  2. Prepare and record the shape

    The tooth is shaped to make room for the crown. A scan or impression records the shape for your restoration. Your dentist explains the preparation and comfort options before starting.

  3. Protect it while the crown is made

    If your treatment needs a temporary crown, it protects the prepared tooth between visits. Follow the instructions our office gives you, and contact us if it loosens or comes off.

  4. Check the fit and bite

    Your dentist checks the final crown's fit, appearance and how your teeth meet before securing it. Let us know if your bite feels high or uncomfortable afterward.

MATERIALS & CHOICES

Talk through what fits your tooth.

Your bite and your goals matter

Crowns can be made from tooth-colored materials, metal, or a combination. The position of the tooth, chewing forces, appearance and the amount of tooth remaining all matter when choosing a material.

Ask your dentist which options suit your tooth and why. We will explain the choice in your plan rather than assume one material is best for everyone.

AFTER YOUR VISIT

A crown still needs everyday care.

Keep caring for the tooth underneath

Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily. A crowned tooth can still develop decay, especially around its edges. Keep your regular dental visits.

Avoid chewing ice or using your teeth to open things. If you grind or clench, ask your dentist whether extra protection would help.

Know when to contact us

Sensitivity can happen after treatment. Contact our office if it persists, worsens, or if the bite feels wrong. Get in touch if a crown chips, loosens or comes off, or if you have swelling or ongoing pain.

Crown aftercare instructions

COST & INSURANCE

Understand your plan before you begin.

Clear answers, in writing

Fair, competitive pricing - and you'll see your exact fee in writing before anything starts. No surprises, ever.

Your estimate depends on the tooth, the restoration and whether other treatment is needed. Our team can check your insurance benefits and send a pre-authorization for major treatment. A pre-authorization is not a guarantee of payment.

Self-pay patients are welcome. CareCredit financing is available, subject to approval and the provider's terms.

Explore cost & insurance
GOOD TO KNOW

Your crown questions, answered.

Will I need a root canal first?

Not every tooth that needs a crown needs a root canal. Your dentist will check the tooth and explain whether the nerve needs treatment.

Can a crown last forever?

A crown can last for years, but it may need repair or replacement. Decay, your bite and habits such as grinding affect how it holds up. Keep daily care and regular checkups.

Will getting a crown hurt?

Tell us if you are worried or have had a difficult dental visit. We will explain the steps and your comfort options. Sensitivity can occur afterward; contact our office if you are concerned.

Is a crown the same as an implant?

No. A crown covers a prepared natural tooth or forms the final tooth on an implant. An implant replaces a missing tooth root and is placed by an oral surgeon.

What if my crown comes off?

Contact our office for advice and an appointment. Keep the crown if you have it. If you have pain or swelling, tell our team when you contact us.

Let's talk about
your tooth.

Choose your office and tell us what has been bothering you. We'll help you understand the next step.

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