How long does a dental crown last?

With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene help extend the life of your restoration.

Does getting a crown hurt?

The tooth is numbed during preparation, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity afterward is normal and usually resolves within a few days.

How much do crowns cost?

Crown costs vary depending on the material and complexity. Check the pricing section below for current estimates, or contact the office to discuss your specific situation and insurance coverage.

Can a crown be done in one visit?

Some cases can be completed in one visit with same-day technology, but most crowns require two visits to ensure the best fit and appearance.

What happens if my crown falls off?

Call the office right away. Keep the crown safe and avoid chewing on that side until it can be re-cemented or replaced.

Restorative Care

Crowns & Cosmetic Restorations

Restorative options that help repair damaged teeth, restore everyday function, and improve confidence in your smile.

What to Expect

✓Comprehensive evaluation of the damaged tooth or teeth
✓Discussion of restorative options and materials
✓Preparation of the tooth and impressions for custom fit
✓Temporary restoration while the permanent one is crafted
✓Final placement and adjustment for comfort and bite
✓Care instructions for long-term maintenance

About Crowns & Restorations

A dental crown is a full-coverage restoration — a custom cap that fits over the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. Crowns are recommended when a tooth is too damaged or weakened for a filling to provide adequate support. Common reasons include a large cavity that has removed too much natural tooth structure, a crack that extends deep enough to put the tooth at risk of splitting, a tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy (which can leave the tooth brittle), or a previously filled tooth whose filling has fractured and taken significant tooth structure with it. Crowns restore the tooth to its natural shape and size, protect the remaining structure from further damage, and allow it to function normally in chewing and biting.

Crowns are made from several materials, each with different properties. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns have a metal core covered by ceramic, which gives them durability and a natural appearance. All-ceramic and zirconia crowns contain no metal and are popular for front teeth because of their superior aesthetics and the ability to match the translucency of natural enamel. Full gold crowns are extremely durable and are sometimes preferred in back teeth where appearance is less of a concern. Your dentist will discuss material options based on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your goals.

The crown process typically involves two visits. At the first visit, the tooth is numbed, shaped to make room for the crown thickness, and an impression or digital scan is taken. A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated at a dental laboratory, which usually takes one to two weeks. At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, the permanent crown is evaluated for fit, shape, shade, and bite, and then permanently cemented in place. Any final bite adjustments are made before you leave.

Dental bridges use crown technology to replace one or more missing teeth. A traditional bridge uses crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap as anchors, with one or more artificial teeth (pontics) suspended between them. The bridge is permanently cemented and is not removed for cleaning. Bridges restore chewing function and prevent neighboring teeth from drifting into the empty space, though they do not replace the tooth root and cannot prevent bone loss in the area the way a dental implant can.

After a crown is placed, the tooth may be sensitive for a few days, especially to temperature and pressure. This is normal and typically resolves as the tooth settles. Crowns should be maintained like natural teeth — brushing twice daily, flossing daily including around the margin where the crown meets the gum, and attending regular checkups. Avoid chewing very hard objects like ice or hard candy, which can chip or crack the porcelain. With good care, well-placed crowns can last many years before needing replacement.

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