What is a Dental Crown?
A crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
The process of getting a dental crown involves two visits to our office:
During your first visit, our Porterville, CA dentist will prepare the affected tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to accommodate the crown. They will also take impressions of your teeth with CEREC® technology to create a precise mold for the crown.
Finally, they will place a temporary crown to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being fabricated.
Once your custom crown is ready, you’ll return for a second visit. Our doctors will remove the temporary crown and carefully bond the permanent restoration to make sure your tooth functions and looks like a natural one.
When Do I Need a Dental Crown?
A dental crown may be a good option if you’re in one of these situations:
- Severe tooth decay
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Large fillings that compromise tooth structure
- Weak or worn-down teeth
- Misshapen or discolored teeth
- Support for a dental bridge or implant
Are Crowns Permanent?
While dental crowns are durable and long-lasting, they need to be replaced after 15 or 20 years due to normal wear and tear or changes in the underlying tooth structure.
Benefits of dental crowns
- Restores tooth function and appearance
- Provides protection for weakened or damaged teeth
- Enhances oral health
- Customizable to match the color and shape of natural teeth
- Supports dental bridges and implants for a complete smile restoration
How Do I Care for A Dental Crown?
- Brush and floss every day
- Avoid chewing on hard objects or sticky foods
- Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns typically last between 10 and 15 years with proper care and maintenance. However, some crowns can last 25 to 30 years or even a lifetime when patients practice excellent oral hygiene and avoid habits that damage teeth.
Factors That Affect Crown Longevity:
- Material choice – Porcelain crowns typically last 10-15 years, while gold or zirconia crowns can last 20-30 years
- Oral hygiene habits – Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily protects the tooth underneath the crown
- Grinding or clenching – Bruxism can crack crowns and shorten their lifespan significantly
- Diet choices – Chewing ice, hard candy, or using teeth as tools can damage crown structures
- Regular dental visits – Professional cleanings and checkups help identify problems before they worsen
At Richard Hardt’s Live Oak Dental Group, we use CEREC® technology to create durable, same-day crowns that match your natural teeth perfectly. Dr. Hardt has over 34 years of experience crafting restorations designed to last, and we’ll provide you with specific care instructions to help your crown achieve its maximum lifespan.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between different crown materials like porcelain, gold, or zirconia?
Porcelain crowns offer the most natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth, though they may be more prone to chipping under heavy bite forces. Gold crowns are incredibly durable and gentle on opposing teeth but are highly visible. Porcelain-fused-to-metal combines strength with aesthetics but may show a dark line at the gum line over time. Zirconia crowns provide excellent strength and natural appearance, making them versatile for both front and back teeth. Our doctors will recommend the best material based on the tooth’s location, your bite forces, and aesthetic preferences.
Will my temporary crown affect my daily activities while waiting for the permanent one?
Temporary crowns allow you to function relatively normally, but they do have limitations since they’re made from softer material and held with temporary cement. Avoid sticky foods like gum or caramel that could pull the crown off, and be gentle when chewing on that side. You can brush normally but floss carefully by pulling the floss out sideways rather than lifting up. Speech may feel slightly different initially, but most people adjust quickly. If your temporary crown comes off, contact our office immediately for reattachment to protect the prepared tooth.
How will I know if my crown needs to be replaced before it fails completely?
Warning signs that a crown may need attention include sensitivity that doesn’t resolve, visible wear or chips, a dark line appearing at the gum line, or the crown feeling loose or high when biting. Sometimes you may notice food consistently getting stuck around the crown or develop gum irritation in that area. Regular dental checkups allow our Porterville dentist to detect early signs of crown problems through X-rays and clinical examination before you experience symptoms. Addressing issues early can often prevent emergency situations and more complex treatments.
Can a crown be placed on any tooth, or are there limitations?
Crowns can be placed on most teeth, but the tooth must have sufficient healthy structure remaining to support the restoration. If too much tooth structure is lost, other treatments like implants might be necessary. Root-treated teeth are excellent candidates for crowns since the procedure weakens the tooth structure. Very short teeth or those with inadequate bone support may require additional procedures like crown lengthening or bone grafting. Front teeth and back teeth may use different crown materials optimized for their specific functional and aesthetic requirements.
What should I expect during the crown placement process, and how long does it take?
The crown process typically requires two appointments about 2-3 weeks apart. The first visit involves numbing the area, preparing the tooth by removing decay and shaping it, taking impressions with CEREC® technology, and placing a temporary crown. This appointment usually takes 60-90 minutes. The second visit removes the temporary crown, checks the fit and color of the permanent crown, makes any necessary adjustments, and permanently cements it in place. This visit typically takes 30-45 minutes. Some patients may qualify for same-day crowns depending on their specific needs.
