A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that covers the entire visible part of a tooth above the gumline. When a tooth is broken, weakened by a large filling, or has had root canal treatment, a crown holds it together and lets you chew comfortably. At Alameda Dental in Aurora, CO, we recommend crowns only when a less invasive restoration—such as a filling or an onlay—cannot provide enough strength and protection. Because placing a crown involves removing some enamel, and that enamel never grows back, we take the decision seriously.
01 / When a crown is the best choiceWhen a crown is the best choice
Not every damaged tooth needs a crown. We consider a crown when the tooth’s structure is so compromised that it risks fracturing under normal chewing forces. You might benefit from a crown if you have:
- A tooth with decay that has destroyed so much of the tooth that a filling would leave thin, fragile walls.
- A crack that extends into the dentin (the layer beneath enamel) and causes pain when you release a bite.
- A tooth that has already had root canal therapy—these teeth tend to become brittle over time.
- A tooth worn down by grinding or acid erosion, where the chewing surface is flattened.
- An old large filling that is failing, with new decay around the edges.
- A tooth that will serve as an anchor for a fixed dental bridge.
- A dental implant that needs a visible tooth replacement.
In each of these situations, the crown acts like a helmet, distributing chewing forces away from the damaged areas.
02 / What a crown is made ofWhat a crown is made of
We offer several materials, and the best choice depends on where the tooth sits in your mouth, your bite force, and your aesthetic preferences.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): A metal base covered with tooth-colored porcelain. These are strong and can be a good option for back teeth where the metal is not visible.
- All-ceramic: Modern ceramics like zirconia or lithium disilicate are very strong and can be made to match the color and translucency of your natural teeth. They work well for front teeth and for people with metal allergies.
- Full gold or high-noble metal: Gold is among the most durable materials and is gentle on opposing teeth. It remains a sensible choice for second molars that do not show when you smile.
During your consultation, we explain the characteristics of each material so you can choose what feels right for you.
03 / The process: two visits, a lasting resultThe process: two visits, a lasting result
Getting a crown usually takes two appointments.
First visit – preparation: We start by numbing the tooth so you stay comfortable. Any decay or old filling material is removed, and the tooth is shaped to make room for the crown. We then take an impression of the prepared tooth and the opposite arch to record how your bite comes together. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth and hold its position while the dental laboratory fabricates your permanent crown. The lab usually needs about two weeks to create a restoration that fits precisely.
Second visit – placement: When the permanent crown is ready, we remove the temporary, try in the new crown, and check the fit, color, and bite. After any small adjustments, we bond it securely in place with a strong dental cement. You will leave with a fully restored tooth that can handle normal chewing.
04 / Crowns after root canal treatmentCrowns after root canal treatment
A root canal removes the soft tissue inside the tooth, leaving the hard shell intact. Over time, that shell can become drier and more brittle because the tooth no longer receives moisture from within. Back teeth, in particular, bear heavy chewing forces and are at risk of splitting. Placing a crown after a root canal helps prevent this. Front teeth may not always need a crown, but we evaluate each case individually.
05 / Crowns on dental implantsCrowns on dental implants
When a tooth is missing and we place an implant to replace the root, a crown sits on top to replicate the visible part. The crown is attached to a connector called an abutment. We design implant crowns slightly differently because the implant does not have the cushioning ligament found around a natural tooth. Proper home care is important to keep the gum around the implant healthy.
06 / How long can I expect a crown to last?How long can I expect a crown to last?
With consistent home care and regular dental checkups, a crown can serve you well for many years—often well over a decade. The most common reasons for replacing a crown are new decay forming where the crown meets the tooth, a chip in the porcelain, or loosening of the cement. Good habits help protect your investment:
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and clean carefully along the gumline.
- Floss daily, using floss threaders or super-floss to reach under the crown edges.
- Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, or non-food items like pen caps.
- If you grind or clench your teeth at night, ask us about a custom night guard. A hard guard can absorb the forces that might otherwise damage the crown or your jaw joints.
- Keep your recare visits so we can catch early signs of wear or decay.
The joint between the crown and the tooth is the most vulnerable area. While the crown itself cannot decay, the natural tooth structure underneath remains susceptible to bacteria and acids.
01 / How a crown compares to a filling, onlay, or veneerHow a crown compares to a filling, onlay, or veneer
A filling merely fills a hole and depends on the remaining tooth walls for support. An onlay covers one or more cusps but not the entire tooth—we use it when the damage is too large for a filling but enough healthy enamel remains. A veneer is a thin shell that covers only the front surface of a tooth to improve its appearance; it requires minimal tooth reduction. A crown, by contrast, encases the entire visible tooth and is indicated when the tooth’s structural integrity is broadly compromised.
02 / Common mistakes that can shorten a crown’s lifeCommon mistakes that can shorten a crown’s life
- Waiting until the tooth breaks. A tooth that fractures below the gumline often needs extraction or more complex procedures. Addressing the problem early can save time and discomfort.
- Ignoring a loose temporary. If your temporary crown comes off, call us right away. The prepared tooth can drift within a day or two, and the permanent crown might no longer fit properly.
- Skipping the night guard. Heavy grinding can fracture porcelain even within the first year. A custom guard is simpler and more affordable than remaking a crown.
- Using harsh whitening toothpastes. Pastes with abrasive charcoal or baking soda can scratch the glaze on porcelain crowns, making them more likely to stain.
03 / Questions we often hearQuestions we often hear
Will my crown look fake? Today’s all-ceramic materials are highly aesthetic. We match the color, surface texture, and translucency to your neighboring teeth so the restoration blends in.
Can I eat right after the crown is cemented? We suggest waiting until the anesthetic wears off so you don’t accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. Avoid sticky or chewy foods for the first day while the cement finishes setting.
What if my crown comes loose while I am traveling? A pharmacy temporary dental adhesive can work as a short-term fix. Rinse the crown, place a small amount of cement inside, seat it gently, and bite down. Call us as soon as you return so we can clean off the temporary material and re-bond the crown securely.
Can I whiten a crowned tooth? No—porcelain and zirconia do not respond to whitening gel. If you plan to whiten your teeth, do it before we match the crown shade. That way we can pick a color that fits your brighter smile.
Does dental insurance cover crowns? Coverage varies widely between plans. Our team can submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so you know what to expect before we begin.
04 / What to bring to your first appointmentWhat to bring to your first appointment
- A list of current medications and any health conditions.
- Any recent dental X-rays from another office, if available.
- Questions—feel free to ask about materials, lab times, or anything that concerns you.
- If you have dental anxiety, let us know. We can talk through ways to make the visit more comfortable.
We will perform an exam, take necessary X-rays, and discuss whether a crown is right for you. We show you what we see, explain the reasons for our recommendation, and provide a written treatment plan and cost estimate.
05 / After your crown is placedAfter your crown is placed
In the days following placement, your gum might feel slightly tender. Rinsing with warm salt water can help. Continue brushing and flossing as usual, but be gentle around the new crown until any soreness subsides. We schedule a follow-up visit to polish the crown and check your bite. Regular cleanings every six months and periodic X-rays let us monitor the crown and the tooth structure beneath it.
06 / We’re here to helpWe’re here to help
If you have a tooth that hurts when you bite, a large old filling, or a crack that concerns you, we encourage you to come in for an evaluation. At Alameda Dental, located at 14591 E Alameda Ave in Aurora, CO, the team can assess your situation and help you understand your options. Call us at (303) 343-7072 to book a visit. We look forward to helping you keep your smile healthy and strong.
Related services
Alameda Dental Team
Reviewed by Alameda Dental Team
Clinically reviewed