What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over your existing tooth. It covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, restoring its original size, shape, and function. Crowns are one of the most common dental restorations, used to protect teeth that are cracked, heavily decayed, or weakened after a root canal.
Your dentist may recommend a crown when a filling alone is not enough to restore the tooth's structure. Crowns are also used to anchor dental bridges, cover dental implants, and improve the appearance of severely discolored or misshapen teeth.
When Is a Dental Crown Needed?
Crowns serve both functional and cosmetic purposes. Your dentist or prosthodontist may recommend one in the following situations.
- A large cavity that cannot be supported by a filling alone
- A cracked or fractured tooth that needs to be held together
- A tooth weakened by root canal treatment
- A severely worn-down tooth from grinding or erosion
- A dental implant that needs a visible crown on top
- A tooth that anchors a dental bridge
- A cosmetic concern such as a severely discolored or misshapen tooth
The Dental Crown Procedure Step by Step
The traditional dental crown procedure takes place over two appointments. Here is what happens at each one.
First Visit: Tooth Preparation
Your dentist numbs the tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia. Once the area is numb, the outer layer of the tooth is reshaped by removing a thin layer of enamel on all sides. This creates room for the crown to fit over the tooth without feeling bulky or changing your bite. The amount removed depends on the crown material; porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns typically require more reduction than gold or zirconia.
After shaping the tooth, your dentist takes an impression. This may be done with a traditional putty mold or a digital scanner. The impression captures the exact dimensions of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth so the lab can create a crown that fits precisely.
A temporary crown made of acrylic or composite material is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is fabricated. The temporary is attached with a mild adhesive so it can be easily removed at your next visit. The lab typically needs 1 to 3 weeks to manufacture the permanent crown.
Second Visit: Permanent Crown Placement
At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is checked for fit, color, and bite alignment. Your dentist will place the crown on the tooth and ask you to bite down to ensure it sits properly and does not interfere with your opposing teeth.
Once everything looks and feels correct, the crown is cemented in place with dental adhesive. Any excess cement is cleaned away, and your dentist makes final adjustments to the bite if needed. The entire second visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Same-Day Crowns (CEREC Technology)
Some dental offices offer same-day crowns using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, commonly known by the brand name CEREC. Instead of sending an impression to an outside lab, the dentist uses a digital scanner to create a 3D model of your tooth. A milling machine in the office carves the crown from a solid block of ceramic material while you wait.
The entire process, from preparation to final placement, takes about 1 to 2 hours. Same-day crowns eliminate the need for a temporary crown and a second appointment. The ceramic material used is durable and tooth-colored, making it a good option for many patients.
Same-day crowns are not ideal for every situation. Complex cases, cases requiring specific color layering for front teeth, or situations where a lab-fabricated crown would provide a better result may still benefit from the traditional two-visit approach. Your dentist will advise you on which method is best for your tooth.
Dental Crown Materials Compared
The material used for your crown affects its appearance, strength, cost, and how long it lasts. Here are the most common options.
All-Porcelain (All-Ceramic)
Porcelain crowns provide the most natural appearance and are the top choice for front teeth. They match the translucency and color of natural enamel closely. Modern dental ceramics, such as lithium disilicate (e.max), are stronger than older porcelain formulations, though they are still not as strong as zirconia or metal options for back teeth.
Zirconia
Zirconia crowns are extremely strong and resistant to chipping. They are increasingly popular for both front and back teeth. Newer translucent zirconia formulations provide improved aesthetics while maintaining superior strength. Zirconia requires less tooth reduction than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
PFM crowns have a metal substructure covered with a porcelain outer layer. They offer a good balance of strength and appearance. One drawback is that a dark metal line can sometimes show at the gumline, especially if gum recession occurs over time. PFM crowns have been a standard choice for decades and have a long track record.
Gold and Metal Alloy
Gold and metal alloy crowns are the strongest and most durable option. They require the least amount of tooth reduction and are very gentle on opposing teeth. Their metallic color makes them less popular for visible teeth, but they remain an excellent choice for molars in patients who prioritize longevity and function over appearance.
Recovery After a Dental Crown Procedure
Recovery from a dental crown procedure is typically quick. Most patients return to normal eating and activities the same day.
You may feel mild sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a few days after the crown is placed. This is normal and usually resolves on its own. If sensitivity persists beyond a week or two, contact your dentist. Your bite should feel even and comfortable. If the crown feels high or interferes with your bite, schedule an adjustment as soon as possible to prevent soreness in the tooth or jaw.
Avoid chewing sticky or very hard foods on the temporary crown if you have one. Temporary crowns can crack or come loose. If your temporary crown falls off between appointments, contact your dentist right away to have it recemented.
How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?
A well-made dental crown typically lasts 10 to 15 years, and many last significantly longer. A study in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry reported that porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns had survival rates above 90% at 10 years.[1] All-ceramic crowns show similar longevity in more recent studies.[2]
Factors that affect how long your crown lasts include the material chosen, the quality of the fit, your bite forces, oral hygiene habits, and whether you grind your teeth. Wearing a night guard if you have bruxism and maintaining regular dental checkups will help extend the life of your crown.
Dental Crown Cost and Insurance
A single dental crown typically costs between $800 and $3,000 depending on the material and the provider. Porcelain and zirconia crowns tend to be at the higher end. Gold crowns vary with the current price of gold. Same-day CEREC crowns are generally priced comparably to lab-made crowns. Costs vary by location, provider, and case complexity.
Most dental insurance plans cover crowns when they are deemed medically necessary, typically at 50% after your deductible. Cosmetic-only crowns may not be covered. Check with your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits. Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options to help manage out-of-pocket costs.
When to See a Prosthodontist for a Crown
General dentists place the majority of dental crowns, and for routine cases, a general dentist is a good choice. A prosthodontist is the specialist to see when the case is more complex.
Consider seeing a prosthodontist if you need crowns on multiple teeth, if the crown is part of a bridge or implant restoration, if you have significant bite problems that affect how the crown must be designed, or if a previous crown has failed and needs to be redone. Prosthodontists complete 3 years of advanced residency training focused on restoring and replacing teeth. Their expertise is especially valuable for cases where the cosmetic result, bite alignment, or long-term function of the restoration is critical. Learn more on our [prosthodontics specialty page](/specialties/prosthodontics).
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