What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown — sometimes called a tooth cap — is a custom-fabricated restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. It is cemented permanently in place and, once bonded, functions and looks exactly like a natural tooth.

Crowns protect weakened teeth from fracturing further, restore teeth that are too damaged for a filling, complete root canal treatment, anchor dental bridges, and top dental implants. They are one of the most versatile and durable restorations in dentistry, typically lasting 10 to 15 years or more.

When Do You Need a Crown?

Most Popular

All-Ceramic / Zirconia

The most aesthetically natural option. Zirconia crowns are extremely strong, fully tooth-colored, and biocompatible. Our first recommendation for most front and back teeth. Excellent for patients with metal sensitivities.

$1,000 – $1,500 per crown

Traditional

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)

A porcelain outer layer fused to a metal inner structure. Strong and cost-effective. The metal base may show as a dark line at the gumline over time, which is why all-ceramic options have become more popular for visible teeth.

$900 – $1,300 per crown

Heavy Duty

Gold Crowns

The most durable crown material available — virtually indestructible and gentle on opposing teeth. Recommended for out-of-sight back molars in patients who grind heavily or place extreme forces on their teeth.

$1,200 – $2,500 per crown

Exam & Planning

X-rays and clinical exam confirm the tooth is a good candidate for a crown. We discuss material options and take care of any necessary treatment (root canal, build-up) first.

Tooth Preparation

The tooth is gently shaped under local anesthetic to create space for the crown. A thin, even layer of enamel is removed from all surfaces.

Digital Impressions

We take precise digital or physical impressions and select the crown shade to match your surrounding teeth. These go to the dental lab.

Temporary Crown

A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being fabricated — typically 2 to 3 weeks.

Permanent Cementation

The permanent crown is tried in, adjusted for fit and bite, and permanently cemented. You leave with a fully restored tooth.

Dental Crown

• Covers the entire tooth
• Requires significant tooth reduction
• Best for damaged, cracked, or root-treated teeth
• Lasts 10 to 15+ years
• $900 to $2,500 per tooth

Porcelain Veneer

• Covers only the front surface
• Minimal enamel removal
• Best for cosmetic changes on healthy teeth
• Lasts 10 to 15+ years
• $900 to $2,500 per tooth

Composite Filling

• Fills a cavity or small defect
• Minimal tooth removal
• Best for small to moderate cavities
• Lasts 7 to 10 years
• $150 to $300 per tooth

How long do crowns last?

With proper care, porcelain and zirconia crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or more. Gold crowns can last even longer. Good oral hygiene, regular checkups, and wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth all extend crown longevity significantly.

Does getting a crown hurt?

The preparation appointment is done under local anesthetic and should not be painful — you’ll feel pressure but not sharp pain. The temporary crown phase may involve some sensitivity to temperature, which resolves when the permanent crown is placed.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

For back teeth — yes, strongly recommended. Root-treated teeth become more brittle and are at significant risk of fracturing without a crown. Front teeth with minimal structural damage may sometimes be restored with a filling, but we evaluate case by case.

What happens if I wait too long to get a crown?

A tooth that needs a crown but doesn’t have one is vulnerable to fracture. A crack can split a tooth in a way that makes it unrestorable — requiring extraction. Once a root canal is done, we recommend having the crown placed within a few weeks.

Does insurance cover dental crowns?

Most PPO dental plans cover crowns at 50 to 80% after deductible when the crown is medically necessary. Purely cosmetic crowns typically are not covered. We verify your benefits before your appointment and give you a clear cost breakdown in advance.

My crown fell off — what do I do?

Keep the crown and call us at (469) 598-1021 right away. Do not try to glue it back permanently yourself. Over-the-counter dental cement can hold it temporarily until we can see you — usually the same day for a dislodged crown.

“Had a crown placed after a root canal. The color match is perfect — nobody looking at me would know it’s a crown. The fit felt right immediately and I’ve had zero issues since.”

— Patient, The Tribute

“My crown came off on a Friday afternoon. Called Tribute and they got me in within an hour, recemented it, and I was on my way. Fast, efficient, and they didn’t charge me an arm and a leg.”

— Patient, Lone Star Ranch

“The team explained clearly why I needed a crown instead of another filling on that molar and what would happen if I waited. Felt informed and not pressured. The crown itself is great.”

— Patient, Phillips Creek Ranch