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Everything You Need To Know About Dental Crowns

Updated: Apr 18

If you’ve been researching dental crowns, this post will walk you through the essentials.


Dental crowns might sound intimidating, but they’re actually one of the most common ways to protect and restore damaged teeth. Let’s explore why you might need a crown, the different types out there, and how they can help keep your smile healthy.


What Is a Dental Crown?


A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and overall appearance. When a tooth is too weak or damaged for a regular filling or veneer, a crown provides that extra layer of protection. It’s designed to blend in with the rest of your teeth (especially if you choose a tooth-colored material).


When Would You Need a Dental Crown?


You might need a crown if:

  • A filling is too large: If a cavity takes up most of your tooth, a crown offers better coverage than just a filling and prevents future fractures.

  • You’ve had a root canal: A tooth can become brittle afterward, so a crown helps shield it.

  • You want cosmetic improvements: Crowns can also cover up serious discoloration or unusual tooth shapes.

  • A tooth is cracked or badly worn down: Crowns are a sturdy solution for significant damage.


Types of Dental Crowns


Metal Crowns

  • Often made from gold or other alloys

  • Very durable but not the most natural-looking


Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)

  • Strong metal core with a tooth-colored exterior

  • Good balance of strength and appearance


Pressed Ceramic Crowns

  • Made by pressing ceramic in a high-temperature oven

  • Natural look, but can be more prone to chipping than metal-based options


All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns

  • Completely metal-free

  • Blend well with surrounding teeth; popular for front teeth

  • Very resilient


Same-Day Dental Crowns

  • Created in-office with digital scanning and milling technology

  • Can be designed and placed in a single visit


All-Resin Crowns

  • Generally less expensive but also wear down faster

  • Often used as a temporary solution


The Dental Crown Procedure


First Visit (Traditional Approach)

  • Preparation and Impressions: After numbing the area, your dentist prepares the tooth to make room for the crown. They’ll also take impressions (or use a digital scanner) to ensure the crown fits correctly.

  • Temporary Crown: You’ll receive a temporary crown to protect your tooth while the permanent crown is being made in a dental lab.


Second Visit

  • Placement: Your dentist will remove the temporary crown, check the fit of the permanent one, and cement it into place. They’ll ensure it matches your bite and the color of your existing teeth.


Same-Day Procedure

  • Digital Scans and Milling: Some offices can create and place a crown in a single appointment. They use CAD/CAM technology to design and mill the crown on-site, so you don’t have to wait for a lab to ship it back.


Risks and Benefits of Dental Crowns


Benefits:

  • Restores strength and structure to a damaged tooth

  • Can last decades with proper care

  • Helps prevent further decay or breakage


Disadvantages:

  • Requires some enamel removal

  • Can cause temporary sensitivity

  • Costs vary, and some insurance plans have limited coverage


Recovery and Outlook


After getting a crown, you might feel a bit of sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days. Most people resume normal activities almost immediately, but it’s wise to avoid extra-hard or sticky foods initially. With routine brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, crowns can serve you well for many years.


Caring for Your Dental Crown


  • Brush and floss daily: Pay extra attention around the crown’s edges.

  • Use a non-abrasive toothpaste: If you have sensitivity, try a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

  • Avoid chewing hard objects: This includes ice and very sticky candies that could loosen or damage the crown.

  • Regular checkups: Your dentist can spot any early signs of wear or fit issues.


Dental Crown Frequently Asked Questions


How long do dental crowns last?

  • Crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, oftentimes longer with good dental hygiene and regular checkups.


Are dental crowns permanent?

  • They’re long-lasting, but not necessarily permanent. Over time, normal wear and tear may require a replacement.


Is the procedure painful?

  • The area is numbed during the process, so most people only feel mild pressure. Afterward, you might have some sensitivity, but it usually goes away.


What do they cost?

  • Costs can range from $1,000 to $3,500 or more, depending on the material, location, and any additional procedures you need (like a root canal). Insurance coverage varies.


Is there an alternative to getting a crown?

  • Options might include large fillings, veneers for front teeth, or onlays/3/4 crowns if the damage isn’t extensive. Your dentist will guide you to the best option.


Final Thoughts


Dental crowns are a reliable way to protect and restore teeth that are too damaged for just a filling. Whether you’re exploring dental crowns in Amherst, NY or simply want to learn more about what dental crowns are, understanding your options and the procedure can help you make the best decision for your oral health. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help you keep that smile healthy and strong for years to come.

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