What a crown does
When decay goes deeper than a filling can handle, a crown may be the next step. It fits over the whole tooth like a custom-sized cap. You might need one when a tooth is broken, worn down or structurally weak, or when a large filling has left it fragile. Crowns are also used cosmetically to cover a tooth whose color or shape bothers you.
Crowns are commonly placed after an extraction, a root canal or an implant, and they also support dental bridges. A bridge replaces missing teeth, and the teeth on either side are fitted with crowns to hold it in place.
Why people choose crowns
- They protect a damaged tooth from further breakage or decay
- They help prevent tooth loss, which can lead to more oral health problems and more costly work
- They help keep a normal bite and stop neighboring teeth from shifting
- They keep your smile looking natural
Crown materials
Crowns can be porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal, composite resin or a combination. The right one depends on your tooth, your treatment and your oral health, and when your condition allows, you can often choose. Metal is usually reserved for teeth that do not show. After an evaluation, we will recommend the material that suits your case.
The crown process
The crown is made to fit your tooth, and a temporary crown protects it in the meantime. At the placement visit, we check the shape and color of the permanent crown. If it fits well, we remove the temporary one and cement the new crown in place, usually under local anesthetic.
Caring for a temporary crown
- Chew on the other side of your mouth when you can
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that could pull it off
- Keep brushing and flossing, but do not floss up and down around the crown, since that could dislodge it
If a crown comes off, clean it and the visible part of the tooth, then call us right away at (781) 289-3331. Until your appointment, you can use dental adhesive or temporary dental cement to hold it in place.
Common questions
How long does a crown last?
Usually between five and 15 years. Good oral hygiene helps it last longer, and so does avoiding hard foods and ice.
Will a crown look like a real tooth?
Yes. We shape crowns like natural teeth and match their color so they blend in. Metal is generally kept for teeth that are not visible.
Can I whiten a crown?
No, regular whiteners do not work on crowns. Choose the shade you want before the crown is placed. Most are porcelain or porcelain with metal, which do not stain easily.
What if my crown comes off?
Clean it and the exposed part of the tooth and call us right away. We will either cement it again or order a new one.
Does insurance cover crowns?
Coverage varies by plan, so check with your insurer. Our staff can help you understand your out-of-pocket costs.