Dental crowns

A crown is a cap that covers a tooth and protects it long term. It can be made from gold or porcelain, though most crowns today use zirconia, which is strong and looks natural.

It depends on why we are treating the tooth. A small cavity may be fine with a filling, but a large cavity, or a cracked or root-canaled tooth, usually needs a crown to protect it for the long term.

Almost always, especially on back teeth. After a root canal the tooth becomes more brittle, and a crown restores its strength and protects it.

In our office it is two appointments. The first is the longer one, about an hour, where we numb you, shape the tooth, and scan it for the lab. At the second visit we check the fit, color, and bite, then cement the final crown.

Not really. You are numbed for the first appointment, and if you feel anxious we can add laughing gas. The second visit is quick and comfortable.

Yes. The crown itself cannot decay, but the margin where it meets your tooth can, so good brushing, flossing, and checkups still matter.

On average around five years or more, though it depends on your bite and home care. Considering how many times you chew on it, a well-made crown does a lot of work.