What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers and protects a damaged, weakened, or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are designed to match the color and contour of your natural teeth, providing a durable restoration that blends seamlessly with your smile.
At West Chester Family Dentistry, we offer both traditional lab-crafted crowns and CEREC same-day crowns. Your dentist will help determine which option fits your needs and schedule. Digital scanning and design technology are used in the crown fabrication process.
- Restores full function to damaged teeth
- Custom-matched color and shape for natural appearance
- Same-day CEREC crowns available
- Durable materials for long-term use
- Protects weakened teeth from further damage
- Ideal after root canal therapy
The Crown Process: What to Expect
Whether you choose a same-day CEREC crown or a traditional lab-crafted crown, our process is designed for comfort and precision:
- Your dentist examines the tooth and takes digital scans or impressions for a precise fit.
- The tooth is carefully shaped to accommodate the crown while preserving as much natural structure as possible.
- For CEREC crowns, the restoration is designed, milled, and placed the same day. For lab crowns, a temporary is placed while yours is crafted.
- The crown is bonded into place, adjusted for bite comfort, and polished for a seamless finish.
Common Reasons for Dental Crowns
Crowns may be recommended for teeth that are cracked, severely decayed, weakened by large fillings, treated with a root canal, or cosmetically compromised. They are also used to cover dental implants and anchor dental bridges. Essentially, anytime a tooth needs more support than a filling can provide, a crown is the standard solution.
If you are unsure whether you need a crown, we are happy to evaluate your tooth and discuss all available options. Our goal is always to recommend the most conservative treatment that will give you the best long-term result.
Types of Dental Crowns
We offer multiple crown materials and approaches to match your specific needs:
CEREC Same-Day Crowns
Computer-designed and milled in our office for a custom crown in a single visit.
Porcelain Crowns
Lab-crafted porcelain crowns offering excellent aesthetics for front teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Ultra-strong zirconia crowns ideal for back teeth that need maximum durability.
Crown Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of a dental crown depends on the material used and the complexity of the restoration. Most dental insurance plans cover crowns when they are medically necessary. Our front office team will verify your benefits and help you understand your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
We also offer financing options for patients who need assistance with costs. Whether you choose a same-day CEREC crown or a traditional lab-crafted restoration, we will work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. Call 513-755-2118 to schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
With our CEREC technology, many crowns can be designed, milled, and placed in a single visit of about one to two hours. Traditional crowns may require two appointments spaced about two weeks apart while the crown is fabricated in a dental lab.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. Avoiding hard foods, ice chewing, and teeth grinding can help extend their lifespan.
Yes. We use tooth-colored porcelain and ceramic materials that are custom-matched to the shade and shape of your surrounding teeth. Most people will not be able to tell the difference between a crown and a natural tooth.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some patients experience mild sensitivity afterward, which typically resolves within a few days.
A crown is recommended when a tooth has too much damage or decay for a filling to restore its strength. Crowns are also placed after root canal therapy, on cracked teeth, and over dental implants.
A crown covers the entire tooth and is used for structural restoration, while a veneer covers only the front surface for cosmetic improvement. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your needs.