Restore Strength & Function

A dental crown (or "cap") covers a damaged tooth entirely, restoring its original shape, size, and strength. It protects weak enamel from breaking while looking completely natural.

sample models of crowns

Maximum Protection

Prevents Tooth Loss

When is a Crown Necessary?

Unlike a filling which patches a small hole, a crown holds the tooth together. It is typically recommended when:

Broken or Cracked

If a tooth is cracked or severely worn down, a crown holds it together to prevent it from splitting further.

Large Cavity

When decay has destroyed more than 50% of the tooth, there isn't enough structure left to hold a filling securely.

After Root Canal

Teeth become brittle after a root canal. A crown is almost always required to protect the tooth from shattering.

Old Metal Replacements

Replacing old, dark metal crowns with modern porcelain for a cleaner, healthier look.

The Treatment Steps

A crown procedure typically takes two visits over the course of 2 weeks.

1

First Visit: Preparation

  • We numb the area to ensure you are comfortable.
  • Any decay is removed and the tooth is shaped to fit the crown.
  • We take a precise impression (mold) of your tooth for the lab.
  • A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth while you wait.
2

Second Visit: Placement

  • About 1-2 weeks later, your custom crown arrives from the lab.
  • We remove the temporary and clean the tooth.
  • We check the fit, bite, and color match carefully.
  • The crown is permanently cemented into place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Modern porcelain and zirconia crowns are designed to mimic the translucency and color of natural enamel. We match the shade to your surrounding teeth so the crown is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.

On average, dental crowns last between 10 and 15 years. However, with excellent oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, and regular checkups), they can often last 20 years or longer.

A crowned tooth is protected from decay on the top, but the gum line is still vulnerable. You must brush and floss around the crown just like a normal tooth to prevent gum disease or decay at the base.