Crowns
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Dr. Lee uses tooth-colored porcelain and ceramic crowns that match your natural teeth so the result blends right in.
When You Might Need a Crown
Crowns are recommended in a number of situations. After a root canal to protect the treated tooth. When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn't need to be pulled. To cover a dental implant. To anchor a dental bridge. To protect a cracked tooth from getting worse. Or to improve the appearance of a severely discolored or misshapen tooth.
Dr. Lee always discusses whether a crown is the best option for your situation and explains the alternatives before moving forward.
The Process
Getting a crown takes two visits. At the first appointment, Dr. Lee reshapes the tooth to make room for the crown, takes detailed impressions, and places a temporary crown to protect things while your permanent one is being made.
At the second visit, usually about two weeks later, the temporary comes off and the custom crown is checked for fit, color match, and bite. Once everything looks right, it's cemented permanently into place.
With proper care, a dental crown can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular checkups let us monitor your crown and catch any issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about crowns. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Give us a call.
No. We use local anesthesia during the prep appointment so you won't feel anything. Some patients notice mild sensitivity for a few days after the crown is placed, but it resolves quickly.
Typically 10 to 15 years, often longer. Good hygiene, regular checkups, and avoiding habits like chewing ice or grinding your teeth help extend the life of your crown.
Yes. We use porcelain and ceramic materials that are color-matched to your surrounding teeth. Once it's placed, most people can't tell the difference between the crown and a natural tooth.
Call us right away. In many cases we can reattach or replace it quickly. In the meantime, avoid chewing on that side and try placing the crown back on the tooth with a small dab of toothpaste or denture adhesive as a temporary hold.
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Related Services
Root Canal Therapy
A root canal removes infected tissue from inside your tooth. Despite its reputation, the procedure is about as comfortable as getting a filling with modern techniques. Dr. Lee performs root canal therapy to save teeth that would otherwise need to be pulled, eliminating infection and stopping pain while keeping your natural tooth intact.
Learn More
Bridges
A dental bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It anchors a replacement tooth to the natural teeth or implants on either side, restoring your ability to eat, speak, and smile without the complications that come from leaving a gap open.
Learn More
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, an implant replaces the entire tooth from root to crown. A titanium post fuses with your jawbone, creating a foundation that's as strong as what nature gave you. Dr. Lee provides implant services from consultation through final restoration.
Learn MoreReady to Get Started?
Schedule a consultation to learn more about crowns. Our team will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.