Dental Crowns in Aurora, CO

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the entire visible part of a tooth, down to the gumline. We use crowns to restore a tooth that has lost significant structure — whether from decay, a fracture, a large filling, or after root canal treatment. The crown protects the tooth from further damage and restores its natural shape, size, and function. Crowns are also used to anchor a dental bridge or to cap a dental implant.

At Alameda Dental, we offer crowns in materials that balance strength and aesthetics, including ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and metal alloys. The right choice depends on the tooth’s location, your bite forces, and your personal preferences. During your consultation, we explain each option and how it fits your situation.

Not every damaged tooth requires a crown. We typically recommend a crown when a filling would leave the tooth too weak to withstand normal chewing, when a tooth has sustained a large crack or break, after root canal treatment to protect the brittle tooth, or when a tooth is severely worn or misshapen. A crown may also serve a cosmetic purpose by covering a discolored or poorly shaped tooth.

During an exam, we evaluate the tooth’s structure, the surrounding bone and gums, and your overall oral health to determine if a crown is the best option. In some cases, a large filling, onlay, or other restoration may be sufficient. We review all choices with you before we begin treatment.

Receiving a crown usually takes two appointments.

At the first visit, we numb the tooth and the surrounding area with local anesthetic. We carefully shape the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel from the top and sides so the crown can fit over it without crowding neighboring teeth. For teeth that have lost a lot of structure, we may build up the core with a filling material first. A temporary crown is placed over the tooth with removable cement to protect it while the lab fabricates your permanent restoration.

Between visits, the temporary crown needs some care: avoid sticky or hard foods, and brush and floss gently around it. If the temporary comes loose or off, call us; we will re-cement it or adjust as needed.

At the second appointment, we remove the temporary crown, clean the tooth, and try in the permanent crown. We check the fit, bite, and appearance, then bond it securely to the tooth. We make any final adjustments so your bite feels comfortable. You leave with the crown in function and a natural-looking smile.

The material for your crown is selected based on where the tooth is, your bite, and your aesthetic goals. All-ceramic crowns (such as lithium disilicate or zirconia) offer the most natural translucency and are often used on front teeth or any tooth where appearance is a priority. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns bond a ceramic exterior to a metal substructure, providing strength for back teeth while still looking tooth-colored, though the metal margin may become visible at the gumline over time. Metal crowns (gold or other alloys) are exceptionally durable and kind to opposing teeth but are metallic in color.

Our lab partners fabricate each crown to match your tooth shade and contours.

After the permanent crown is placed, you may experience some mild sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days as the tooth adjusts. This typically resolves on its own. If your bite feels uneven or the sensitivity persists, we can make a simple adjustment.

Crowns are durable but not indestructible. Good home care — brushing twice daily, flossing around the crown at least once a day — helps the tooth beneath stay healthy. Even though the crown itself cannot decay, the margin where the crown meets the tooth can develop decay if plaque accumulates. We recommend regular check-ups and cleanings so we can monitor the crown and the underlying tooth over time.

With proper care, many crowns serve patients for years. Longevity varies by material, oral habits, and maintenance. Chewing ice, hard candy, or using teeth as tools can damage any crown, so we recommend avoiding those habits.

A crown can profoundly improve a compromised tooth — restoring strong chewing function, protecting the remaining tooth structure, and creating a natural, seamless look. For front teeth, a ceramic crown can blend beautifully with your smile. For back teeth, a crown can withstand the forces of grinding and chewing.

It is important to know that a crown does not make a tooth invulnerable. The underlying tooth can still develop problems such as decay or fracture. If the nerve of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected after crown placement, root canal treatment may become necessary. We discuss these possibilities openly so you have realistic expectations.

If you are considering a crown for cosmetic reasons and also plan to whiten your teeth, we recommend whitening first. Crown material does not respond to bleaching, so the crown will be fabricated to match your whitened shade.

The cost of a dental crown varies based on the material, the complexity of the tooth preparation, and any additional procedures needed (such as a core buildup). Insurance coverage for crowns depends on your specific plan and whether the treatment is considered medically necessary or cosmetic. Our team checks your benefits and provides a written estimate before any work begins.

We never want cost to be a barrier to needed care, so we will walk you through your options and payment choices during your consultation. Call (303) 343-7072 to schedule an exam and get a personalized cost breakdown.

If you have a tooth that is painful, broken, or heavily filled, or if you simply want to explore whether a crown is right for you, start with a consultation at Alameda Dental. We will examine the tooth, take any necessary images, and discuss your goals. Then we provide a clear treatment plan, including timing and cost.

Our office is conveniently located at 14591 E Alameda Ave, Aurora, CO 80012. New and existing patients can reach us at (303) 343-7072 to book an appointment. We look forward to helping you restore your smile’s health and strength.