Restore Strength, Function, and a Natural Look

A damaged or weakened tooth can affect how you chew, speak, and feel about your smile. Issues like cracks, large fillings, or root canal treatment can leave a tooth needing additional support to function properly.

A dental crown is a common treatment in general dentistry that helps repair and protect a compromised tooth. By covering the visible portion of the tooth, a custom crown restores strength, improves appearance, and supports long-term oral health.

At Embury Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we focus on helping patients protect and restore their smiles with thoughtful, personalized care. Our team takes time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and make sure you feel comfortable and confident at every step. Because we focus on one patient at a time, you’ll never feel rushed during your visit. Dr. Carl Embury and Dr. Caitlin Embury work closely with each patient to determine the best option using advanced training and a patient-first approach.

What Is a Dental Crown and How It Works

  • A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a natural tooth to restore its shape, strength, function, and appearance. It fully covers the portion of the tooth above the gum line, helping protect it from further damage.
  • Crowns are often recommended when a tooth is too weak or damaged for a filling alone. This may include a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment or one with a large existing filling that has weakened the remaining tooth structure. A definitive crown helps reinforce the tooth and allows you to chew comfortably.
  • The dental crown procedure typically takes two visits. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared and a temporary crown is placed to protect it while your custom crown is created in a dental lab. At the second visit, the definitive crown is carefully placed and adjusted for a comfortable, natural fit.

Types of Dental Crowns and Materials

There are several types of dental crowns available, and each option is selected based on the location of the tooth, your goals, and the amount of strength needed. Common types of dental crowns include:

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns and ceramic crowns are often used for front teeth because they closely match the color of natural teeth.

Ceramic Crowns

Ceramic crowns offer a natural appearance and are a great option for patients seeking metal-free restorations.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are known for their strength and durability, making them a reliable choice for back teeth that handle more pressure.

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are very durable and long-lasting, making them a good option for back teeth where strength is more important than appearance.

PFM Crowns (Porcelain Fused to Metal)

PFM crowns combine a strong metal base with a porcelain outer layer, offering both durability and a natural look. In some cases, a dark line may appear near the gum line over time.

Gold Crowns

Gold crowns are made from strong metal alloys and are known for their longevity and ability to withstand heavy chewing forces.

Resin Crowns

Resin crowns are often used as a more affordable or temporary option, though they may be less durable over time.

If you have metal allergies or prefer a metal-free option, ceramic and zirconia crowns are often recommended

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Many patients choose a dental crown because it can improve both function and appearance. While results vary, crowns are widely considered a reliable option in restorative dentistry.

Benefits may include:

  • Restoring a weak tooth
  • Protecting against tooth decay
  • Improving the appearance of natural teeth
  • Supporting a tooth after a root canal
  • Restoring chewing function for back teeth
  • Maintaining alignment with opposing teeth

A dental crown can also support other treatments. For example, crowns are used with dental implants and dental bridges to replace missing teeth and restore a full smile.
According to the American Dental Association, restoring damaged teeth early can help prevent more complex dental problems later. This supports long-term oral health and overall wellness.

What to Expect During the Dental Crown Procedure

The dental crown procedure is designed to be thorough and comfortable. At Embury Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we guide patients through each step so they feel informed and at ease.

If you feel anxious about dental treatment, we offer options to help you feel more relaxed throughout your visit.

During your first visit:

  • The tooth is prepared by removing a small portion of the enamel
  • Impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab
  • A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth
Your temporary crown helps you eat and speak normally while your custom crown is being made.

At your second visit:

  • The temporary crown is removed
  • The new crown is checked for fit and color
  • Adjustments are made for comfort
  • The permanent crown is securely placed
This process helps ensure your new crown fits naturally with your surrounding teeth and supports proper bite alignment.

Who May Be a Candidate for a Dental Crown

A dental crown may be recommended if you have:

  • A broken tooth
  • A weak tooth due to decay
  • A large filling that needs support
  • A tooth after root canal treatment
  • A worn-down tooth
  • An existing tooth that needs protection

Patients who want to improve the appearance of front teeth may also consider porcelain crowns or ceramic crowns for cosmetic reasons.

During your consultation, Dr. Carl Embury will evaluate your oral health and determine if you have enough tooth structure to support a crown. In some cases, other treatments may be recommended first.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Taking care of your dental crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth. With proper care, many crowns can last for many years.

Helpful tips include:

  • Brush and floss daily
  • Avoid chewing hard objects
  • Attend regular dental visits
  • Hard and sticky foods
  • Keep up with regular checkups
  • Maintain good dental care habits

Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor your crown and check for any signs of wear or damage.

Good oral hygiene also helps protect the surrounding teeth and gum tissue, reducing the risk of future issues.

Dental Crowns and Overall Oral Health

A dental crown does more than restore a single tooth. It plays an important role in maintaining overall oral health.By protecting a damaged tooth, a crown helps prevent further decay and supports the structure of your smile. It also helps maintain proper spacing and alignment with opposing teeth.

When left untreated, a damaged tooth can affect surrounding teeth and lead to more complex dental concerns. A crown helps address the issue early and supports long-term dental health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

A dental crown can last many years with proper care. Factors like oral hygiene, bite habits, and the type of crown all play a role. Many patients experience long-lasting results, but regular dental visits are important to monitor the crown and surrounding teeth.
Most patients find the dental crown procedure manageable. Local anesthesia is used during the first visit to keep you comfortable. Some mild sensitivity may occur after the procedure, but it typically improves within a few days as your tooth adjusts.
A temporary crown is placed after the first visit to protect your tooth while your custom crown is made. A permanent crown is created in a dental lab using durable materials and is designed to match your natural teeth in shape and color.
Yes, dental crowns can be replaced if they become worn, loose, or damaged over time. Regular dental visits allow Dr. Carl Embury and Dr. Caitlin Embury to monitor your crown and recommend replacement if needed to protect your tooth.
Yes, dental crowns are often used alongside other treatments. They can be placed on top of dental implants or used as part of dental bridges. Crowns are also commonly used after a root canal to protect and restore the treated tooth.

Schedule Your Visit Today

If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown may be a helpful solution to restore your smile and protect your oral health.

At Embury Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we take a personalized approach to care and focus on what matters most to you.

Request an Appointment
(716) 317 4133