Dental Crowns

With proper care, dental crowns typically last 15-30 years. Gold crowns can last even longer, while porcelain crowns generally last 15-20 years. Regular dental hygiene, avoiding hard foods, and routine checkups help maximize crown longevity.

No. The procedure is performed under local anesthetic, so you won't feel pain during treatment. After the anesthetic wears off, you may experience mild sensitivity for a few days, which resolves quickly. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient if needed.

There is no difference - "crown" and "cap" are simply different names for the same dental restoration. The terms are used interchangeably in dentistry. Both refer to a tooth-shaped covering that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth.

In most cases, yes. Root canal treatment removes the tooth's blood supply, making it brittle and prone to fracture. A crown protects the weakened tooth and restores its strength, significantly extending its lifespan and preventing breaks during normal chewing.

Yes! Once your permanent crown is fitted and the cement has fully set (usually 24 hours), you can eat normally. Avoid extremely hard foods like ice or hard candy that could damage the crown. Care for it like your natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.

No. Modern dental crowns, especially all-porcelain and zirconia crowns, are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. We color-match your crown precisely to your surrounding teeth and craft it to match the shape and translucency of natural enamel for a seamless appearance.

While rare, crowns can occasionally become loose or fall off if the cement fails or if there's decay underneath. If this happens, save the crown and contact us immediately. Often we can re-cement the same crown if it's undamaged and the tooth underneath is healthy.

The best crown depends on your specific needs. Porcelain and zirconia crowns offer the best aesthetics for visible teeth. Gold or PFM crowns provide maximum durability for back molars. During your consultation, we'll recommend the ideal material based on location, budget, and your preferences.

Care for crowns exactly like natural teeth: brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or using your teeth to open packages. Consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth. Good oral hygiene prevents decay at the crown margins.

Porcelain and zirconia crowns resist staining better than natural teeth and won't change color from coffee, tea, or wine. However, if you have natural teeth next to the crown, those can stain, creating a color mismatch over time. Regular dental cleanings help maintain color consistency.