A dental crown is a custom-shaped cap that fits over a damaged tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and appearance. At Madison Lakes Dental, Dr. Ellickson uses high-quality porcelain and ceramic materials to create crowns that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Whether you need to protect a weakened tooth, restore a broken one, or complete a root canal, our crowns are built to last.
When You Need a Dental Crown
Crowns are one of the most common restorative treatments in dentistry. Dr. Ellickson may recommend a crown when:
- A tooth has a large cavity too extensive for a filling
- A tooth is cracked, fractured, or severely worn
- A tooth has had root canal therapy and needs protection
- An old filling has failed and the remaining tooth structure is insufficient
- A tooth needs cosmetic improvement in shape or color
- A dental bridge needs anchor support
Types of Dental Crowns
All-Porcelain/Ceramic Crowns
All-ceramic crowns provide the most natural appearance, matching the translucency and color of surrounding teeth. They are ideal for front teeth and patients who prioritize aesthetics. Modern ceramics like zirconia offer both beauty and impressive strength.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns combine a metal substructure with a porcelain outer layer. They offer good strength and acceptable aesthetics, though the metal margin can sometimes become visible at the gumline over time.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is an extremely strong ceramic material that combines the aesthetics of porcelain with durability rivaling metal. These crowns are an excellent choice for both front and back teeth.
The Crown Process
- Evaluation — Dr. Ellickson examines the tooth, takes digital X-rays, and determines if a crown is the best option.
- Preparation — The tooth is shaped to accommodate the crown. Impressions (digital or physical) are taken and sent to our laboratory.
- Temporary Crown — A provisional crown protects your tooth while your permanent restoration is being fabricated.
- Permanent Crown — At your second visit, the temporary is removed and your custom crown is checked for fit, bite, and color before being permanently cemented.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. Factors that influence longevity include your oral hygiene habits, bite forces, grinding habits, and the material selected. Regular dental checkups allow Dr. Ellickson to monitor your crowns and catch any issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Crown costs vary based on material type and complexity. Most dental insurance plans cover crowns when medically necessary, typically at 50% after your deductible. Our team provides a clear estimate and verifies your benefits before treatment.
The crown preparation appointment is performed under local anesthesia, so you should feel no pain during the procedure. Some patients experience mild sensitivity afterward, which typically resolves within a few days.
Care for a crown just as you would a natural tooth: brush twice daily, floss around the crown margin daily, and attend regular cleanings. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or non-food objects that could fracture the crown.
The crown itself cannot decay, but the natural tooth underneath can develop a cavity at the crown margin where it meets the tooth. This is why maintaining excellent hygiene around crowned teeth is essential.
Protect and Restore Your Teeth
A well-crafted dental crown can save a compromised tooth and serve you for years to come. Madison Lakes Dental in Madison, WI provides crowns that combine strength, beauty, and precision fit.