A dental crown is one of the most effective treatments in modern dentistry for restoring and protecting a damaged tooth. Whether your tooth is cracked, severely decayed, or weakened after a root canal, a crown acts like a protective cap—preserving both function and appearance.
If you’re in Mesa, AZ and wondering what the dental crown procedure involves, what types of crowns are available, and how to care for one after placement, this guide will answer all your questions.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made covering placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It mimics the look and feel of a natural tooth while protecting the underlying structure. Crowns are a common solution for a variety of dental problems, from cosmetic concerns to structural damage.
Dental Crowns Are Commonly Used For:
- Tooth repair after a large cavity
- Cracked tooth repair
- Protecting a tooth after a root canal
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering dental implants
- Enhancing the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth
Why You Might Need a Crown
Your dentist may recommend a crown if:
- A filling is too large to support the tooth
- A tooth is cracked, worn down, or broken
- You’ve had a root canal and need protection for the remaining structure
- You want to improve the cosmetic look of a tooth
At Snow Family Dentistry in Mesa, AZ, we offer personalized assessments to determine if a crown is right for you.
Types of Dental Crowns
Choosing the right crown type depends on the location of the tooth, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Here are the most common options:
1. Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are popular for their natural look and excellent color match with adjacent teeth. They are ideal for front teeth and are metal-free, making them a good choice for patients with metal allergies.
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
These offer the aesthetics of porcelain with the durability of metal. They’re commonly used on molars but may show a metal line at the gum if gums recede over time.
3. Gold or Metal Alloy Crowns
Highly durable and long-lasting, metal crowns are best for back teeth. Though not as aesthetically pleasing, they resist wear and rarely chip.
4. All-Ceramic or All-Resin Crowns
These are less durable than metal-based options but can still offer excellent aesthetics and are suitable for certain patients depending on their bite and needs.
Dental Crown Procedure in Mesa, AZ: Step-by-Step
Getting a crown usually requires two visits unless same-day crowns are offered. Here’s a step-by-step look at the dental crown procedure:
Step 1: Examination and Consultation
Your dentist will first examine your tooth, take X-rays, and determine the extent of the damage. If there’s an infection or decay, it must be treated first—possibly with a root canal.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
The tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown. This includes removing any decay and filing down the outer layer. If there isn’t enough tooth left to support the crown, your dentist may build it up with a filling material.
Step 3: Impressions or Digital Scans
After the tooth is shaped, an impression or digital scan is taken. This is sent to a dental lab, where your permanent crown is custom-made.
You’ll receive a temporary crown to protect your tooth in the meantime.
Step 4: Permanent Crown Placement
Once your crown returns from the dental lab—usually in about 1–2 weeks—you’ll come back for placement. The dentist will remove the temporary crown, check the fit and color, and permanently cement the new crown into place.
Step 5: Final Adjustments
After placement, the crown may be slightly adjusted for proper bite alignment and comfort.
Same-Day Crowns: Are They Available?
Yes. Some practices, including Snow Family Dentistry, offer CEREC same-day crowns, which use digital scanning and in-house milling technology to design and place your crown in a single visit.
This option eliminates the need for a temporary crown and a second appointment.
What Happens at the Dental Lab?
The dental lab uses your impressions or digital scan to fabricate a crown that mimics your natural tooth in function and appearance. For porcelain crowns, lab technicians carefully layer ceramic to achieve lifelike translucency and color matching.
Crown accuracy depends greatly on the skill of both the lab and your dentist. That’s why partnering with a trusted provider ensures high-quality outcomes.
Aftercare: How to Care for Your Dental Crown
While a dental crown is designed to be durable, it still requires proper care. Here are key crown aftercare tips:
Immediate Care After Placement:
- Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods for 24–48 hours
- Brush and floss gently around the crown
- Use sensitivity toothpaste if needed
Long-Term Care:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup near the gum line
- Visit your dentist for routine cleanings and exams
- Avoid grinding your teeth—consider a nightguard if you clench at night
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, most crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer. The longevity depends on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle factors like grinding or biting on hard objects.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Most patients feel no pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Afterward, you may experience temporary sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods, or minor discomfort as your mouth adjusts.
If pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist immediately—it may signal that adjustments are needed.
Potential Risks or Complications
Like any dental treatment, crowns have risks, though they are rare:
- Sensitivity or discomfort
- Loose crown due to cement failure
- Crown chipping (especially porcelain)
- Allergic reaction to materials (rare)
- Gum irritation if the crown doesn’t fit properly
Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene significantly reduce these risks.
Cost of Dental Crowns in Mesa, AZ
The cost of a dental crown can vary based on:
- Material (porcelain, gold, PFM, etc.)
- Whether a root canal or core buildup is needed
- Lab fees
- Insurance coverage
Typical price range:
- Porcelain or all-ceramic: $900–$1,800
- Metal or gold: $1,000–$2,500
- PFM: $800–$1,500
Most insurance plans cover part of the cost if the crown is medically necessary. Snow Family Dentistry offers flexible payment plans and insurance coordination to help make treatment accessible.
Final Thoughts: Your Smile Is Worth Protecting
A dental crown isn’t just a cosmetic fix—it’s an essential part of tooth repair, helping protect your smile from further damage. Understanding the dental crown steps, materials, and aftercare can help you feel confident going into the procedure.
At Snow Family Dentistry in Mesa, AZ, we use modern techniques and materials to create crowns that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. Whether you’re seeking cracked tooth repair, have extensive decay, or need a post-root canal restoration, we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditional crowns require two visits over 1–2 weeks. Same-day crowns can be completed in a single appointment.
Crowns are considered long-term solutions but may need replacement after 10–15 years due to wear and tear.
Yes, but wait until the numbness wears off and avoid hard or sticky foods for a few days.
Yes—especially if you choose porcelain crowns or ceramic options designed to match your natural teeth.
Contact your dentist. The crown may need adjustment to improve your bite or fit.
