Dental Crowns

With proper care, crowns typically last 10-15 years. Many patients have crowns that last 20+ years. Longevity depends on the crown material (zirconia often lasts longer than porcelain), your oral hygiene habits, and your bite forces. We recommend regular checkups every 6 months to monitor your crown's condition.

Dental crowns typically cost $800-$1,500 per tooth, depending on the material (porcelain, zirconia, or blend) and complexity. Most dental insurance plans cover 50-80% as a restorative procedure. We check your coverage before treatment and can discuss payment plans if needed. Our custom lab-crafted crowns offer exceptional quality and durability.

The complete process spans two appointments over 1-2 weeks. Visit 1 (preparation and temporary crown): 30-45 minutes. Visit 2 (final placement): 30-45 minutes, scheduled 1-2 weeks later. This timeframe allows our lab partners to craft your crown with precision and customization. During the waiting period, your temporary crown allows you to function normally.

No. We use local anesthesia to completely numb the tooth and surrounding area before preparation. You'll feel pressure and vibration but no pain. After treatment, mild sensitivity to hot/cold is normal for 1-3 days and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the entire experience is.

Yes, a crown is strongly recommended (and often essential) after root canal therapy. Root canal-treated teeth lose moisture and become significantly more brittle without a protective crown. A crown protects the tooth from fracture and extends the life of your root canal treatment. In fact, many root canals fail because the tooth wasn't crowned afterward. We typically place a crown within 2-4 weeks after your root canal.

We offer three main options: (1) Porcelain or ceramic—the most natural-looking, ideal for front teeth, but slightly less durable; (2) Zirconia—extremely strong and durable, ideal for back teeth with heavy biting forces, naturally tooth-colored; (3) Porcelain-fused-to-gold or porcelain-fused-to-metal—very durable with excellent longevity, though the metal base may show as a dark line at the gum if gums recede. We'll recommend the best material for your specific tooth and needs.

Absolutely. At Nations Dental Studio, we customize every crown to match your natural tooth shade, shape, and contour. We take time to get details right—your crown should be indistinguishable from a natural tooth. Your dentist and we carefully evaluate your smile proportions, and we work with our lab to ensure perfect aesthetics. Most people won't know your tooth is crowned.

Treat your crown like a natural tooth: brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush, floss once daily (gently around the crown margin), and avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, hard candy, or using your teeth to open packages. Avoid sticky foods that could loosen the crown. Attend regular dental checkups every 6 months, and let us know if your bite feels uncomfortable or if you grind your teeth (we may recommend a night guard).

Crowns generally cannot be repaired—if damaged, they need to be replaced. However, this is rare. If your crown becomes loose or develops problems, we can typically replace it with a new one. The underlying tooth is usually fine and can support a new crown. If you damage your crown, contact us right away so we can protect your tooth with a temporary solution while we fabricate a replacement.

Decay can occasionally develop under a crown if bacteria get beneath the crown margin. This is why excellent oral hygiene and regular checkups are essential. If decay is detected, we can remove the crown, treat the decay, and place a new crown. This is preventable with good brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Once we cement a crown, the tooth is sealed and protected from decay as long as the seal remains intact.

Alternatives depend on your specific situation: (1) For minor chips or cracks, composite bonding is a quick, less invasive option but not as durable; (2) For severely damaged teeth that can't be saved, extraction and implant placement might be considered; (3) For cosmetic concerns, veneers or orthodontics might be options; (4) For large cavities, sometimes a filling is possible if damage isn't too extensive. However, for most damaged teeth—especially post-root canal—a crown offers the best long-term durability, strength, and value. We'll discuss what's best for your specific tooth during your consultation.