Dental crowns are custom restorations that strengthen and protect teeth that have been damaged by decay, fractures, or large fillings. By covering the visible portion of the tooth, a crown restores its shape, strength, and function while helping prevent further damage.
At Power Road Dental Care in Mesa, Dr. Tyler N. Davis carefully evaluates each tooth to determine whether a dental crown is the best treatment option. Our goal is always to restore your tooth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Book an AppointmentRestoring Strength With Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made restorations that completely cover the visible portion of a damaged tooth. It is designed to restore the tooth’s strength, function, and appearance while protecting it from further damage.
Unlike a dental filling, which repairs only a portion of the tooth, a crown reinforces the entire tooth. This makes it an excellent option for teeth that have been weakened by decay, fractures, or previous dental work.
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, metal, composite resin, zirconia, or a combination of these.
When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?
A dental crown may be recommended when a tooth cannot be predictably restored with a filling alone. Common reasons include:
- Large cavities that weaken the remaining tooth structure
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment
- Teeth that are severely worn from grinding or erosion
- Broken teeth
- Replacing an older crown that has become worn or damaged
During your examination, Dr. Davis will evaluate the condition of your tooth and recommend the restoration that provides the best long-term outcome.
When Is an Inlay or Onlay Recommended?
In some cases, a full dental crown is not necessary. If a tooth has too much damage for a traditional filling but enough healthy tooth structure remains, Dr. Davis may recommend a custom inlay or onlay instead.
Like dental crowns, inlays and onlays are fabricated in a dental laboratory to provide a precise fit and long-lasting durability.
- Inlays fit within the chewing surface of the tooth, replacing damage between the cusps.
- Onlays cover one or more cusps of the tooth, providing additional strength without covering the entire tooth like a crown.
Because they preserve more healthy tooth structure than a full crown, inlays and onlays are often considered a conservative restorative option when appropriate. The most appropriate restoration depends on the extent of the damage, the amount of healthy tooth that remains, and the long-term needs of the tooth.
The Dental Crown Process
Getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments.
During the first visit:
- The tooth is examined and prepared, sedation is administered if needed
- Any damaged or decayed tooth structure is removed
- Impressions are taken and sent to the dental laboratory where your custom crown is fabricated
- A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made
At your second appointment:
- The temporary crown is removed
- The permanent crown is evaluated for fit, appearance, and bite
- Once everything is confirmed, the final crown is bonded into place
The result is a restoration that is designed to look natural and function comfortably.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Dental crowns do not require special maintenance, but they should be cared for just like your natural teeth.
To help your crown last as long as possible:
- Brush twice each day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily around the crown
- Avoid chewing ice or other extremely hard objects
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Attend routine dental exams and professional cleanings
With proper care, many dental crowns provide reliable function for many years.
Protect Your Smile With a Custom Dental Crown
At Power Road Dental Care, we restore damaged teeth with custom dental crowns that are designed to look natural, feel comfortable, and protect your long-term oral health. Whether you have a cracked tooth, a large cavity, or need to replace an older crown, Dr. Davis will recommend the treatment that best preserves your smile, and lasts.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Mesa, AZ, call (480) 664-1438 or visit us at 2500 S Power Rd STE 102, Mesa, AZ 85209.
Book an AppointmentFAQs About Dental Crowns
How long do dental crowns last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, many dental crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer. Their lifespan depends on factors such as the material used, your bite, your diet,and your daily oral hygiene habits.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed before it is prepared, so most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. Some mild sensitivity afterward–mostly around the tooth in the gum tissue– is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
What is the difference between a dental crown and a filling?
A filling repairs a small area of damage within a tooth, while a crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth to restore strength and protect it from further damage.
Can a crowned tooth still get a cavity?
Yes. Although the crown itself cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath can still develop a cavity around the edge of the crown if plaque is not removed with proper brushing and flossing.
Can a dental crown fall off?
While uncommon, a dental crown can become loose or fall off if the underlying tooth changes(i.e. breaks) or the cement wears out or fails. If this happens, contact our office as soon as possible so the crown can be evaluated and, if appropriate, recemented.
Where can I get a dental crown in Phoenix East Valley?
Power Road Dental Care provides custom dental crowns and other restorative dental treatments for patients in Mesa and throughout the Phoenix East Valley. We are always accepting new patients! Call (480) 664-1438 or visit us at 2500 S Power Rd STE 102, Mesa, AZ 85209.