Dental Crowns: When and Why You Need Them
Have a tooth that’s cracked, weak, or very worn down? A dental crown can save it. A crown is a custom cap that covers the visible part of a tooth. It restores shape and strength so you can chew with confidence and smile naturally. This guide explains when crowns are recommended, common crown materials, the step-by-step procedure, benefits and limits, aftercare, costs and coverage in Canada, and how to pick the right provider.
What is a dental crown and when should I get one?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a weak or damaged tooth. Dentists recommend crowns for large decay, cracks, after root canal, to anchor a bridge, or for aesthetics. Crowns restore chewing, protect teeth, and look natural again.
What a dental crown does
A crown covers the entire tooth above your gum line. It returns the tooth to a natural shape and bite, protects what’s left of the tooth, and improves appearance. If you’re new to the topic, this overview of what a dental crown is explains how dentists plan and make crowns that match your smile.
When dentists recommend a crown
Common reasons include:
- Severe decay that is too big for a filling.
- A cracked, worn, or broken tooth that needs strength.
- After a root canal to protect the tooth and reduce future breakage.
- To improve shape, size, or color for a more even smile.
- To anchor a dental bridge or restore a dental implant.
Not sure if a filling, veneer, or crown is best? Learn how dentists decide in this plain-English guide to when a dental crown is the right choice.
Types of dental crowns (materials)
Your dentist will suggest a material based on the tooth’s location, your bite, and your goals. Main options:
Porcelain and ceramic
Tooth-coloured and natural looking. Often used for front teeth because they blend well. Modern ceramics are stronger than ever.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
A metal base with tooth-coloured porcelain on top. Balances strength and appearance, though a thin dark line may show at the gum if gums recede.
All-metal (gold or other alloys)
Extremely durable and gentle on opposing teeth. Best for back teeth where appearance is less critical. Visible metal colour is the trade-off.
Zirconia
Very strong and tooth-coloured. Good for back teeth and people who clench or grind (bruxism). Can be made thinner to save more natural tooth.
Some clinics use in-office CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and milling) to make a ceramic crown the same day. This avoids a second visit but isn’t right for every case or every material.
Step-by-step: the crown procedure
1) Exam and X-rays
Your dentist checks the tooth, gums, and bite, and may take X-rays to assess the root and bone. If decay or a crack reaches the pulp (the tooth’s nerve), a root canal may be needed before the crown.
2) Tooth preparation and buildup
The tooth is shaped so the crown can fit. If a large portion is missing, the dentist builds it up with filling material so the crown has a solid base.
3) Impressions or digital scans
The dentist takes a mould or uses a digital scanner to capture your bite. The lab or in-office mill uses this record to craft a precise crown.
4) Temporary crown
A temporary (short-term) crown protects your tooth while the final crown is made. Avoid very sticky or hard foods on that side until the permanent crown is placed.
5) Try-in and cementation
At the next visit, your dentist checks the fit, bite, and colour. Small adjustments are normal. When everything feels right, the crown is cemented in place.
6) Same-day crowns (where available)
Some Canadian clinics offer same-day ceramic crowns using CAD/CAM. These can be convenient, but not all cases or materials are suited to single-visit crowns. Your dentist will guide you.
“A crown is a cover or ‘cap’ that dentists put over a damaged tooth to restore its normal shape, size and function.” — American Dental Association
Benefits of crowns
- Restore comfortable chewing and protect the tooth from further damage.
- Improve appearance by matching your natural tooth colour and shape.
- Support dental bridges or cover dental implants.
- Durable with good care; many last 10–15 years or longer.
If you grind your teeth at night, a crown can still work well. Your dentist may recommend a custom night guard (a protective mouthpiece) to prevent chips or cracks.
Possible limits and alternatives
Crowns are reliable, but not always the first choice. Small chips or cavities may be fixed with bonding (tooth-coloured resin). Front-tooth cosmetic changes may be done with veneers (thin shells) if the tooth is otherwise strong. If a tooth is broken below the gum or has very poor support, an extraction and replacement (implant, bridge, or denture) might be safer long-term. Your dentist will explain pros and cons for your mouth.
Aftercare: how to make your crown last
Good daily habits help your crown last longer and protect the tooth underneath:
- Brush twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste; clean carefully where the crown meets the gum (the margin).
- Floss daily. Use floss threaders or interdental brushes if the contact is tight.
- Avoid chewing very hard foods (ice, unpopped popcorn kernels) and super-sticky candies.
- If you clench or grind, wear a night guard recommended by your dentist.
- Schedule regular checkups to spot early problems like decay at the margin or looseness.
Curious about longevity? See this guide on how long dental crowns last and what habits help them go the distance.
Costs and dental insurance in Canada
Costs vary by province, clinic, and material. Many Canadian plans group crowns under “major” services, often covering a portion (for example, 50–70% is common, but plan details vary). Ask your clinic for a pre-determination so you know your share before treatment. If budget is a concern, ask about material options, payment plans, and whether a build-up or root canal is also needed (these affect cost and coverage).
Choosing the right dentist for a crown
Look for a dentist who:
- Explains options in clear language and answers your questions.
- Uses modern tools (digital X-rays, scanners) and works with a trusted lab or in-office CAD/CAM.
- Shows before-and-after photos and discusses material pros and cons for your bite and smile.
- Offers follow-up care and advice tailored to your habits (like grinding) and goals.
If you want a quick refresher before your visit, start with this plain-language overview of what a dental crown is.
Common questions during the process
Does it hurt? With local anesthesia, most people feel only pressure. After, mild soreness or temperature sensitivity usually settles within a few days. Temporary crown came off? Call your dentist; a pharmacy’s temporary cement can help until you’re seen. Can crowns be whitened? No—crowns don’t respond to bleaching. If you plan to whiten, do it first, then match the new crown colour.
Need help deciding between options?
If you’re weighing a veneer versus a crown or wondering when to act, this guide compares real-world scenarios so you can talk with your dentist about timing, goals, and protection: why you might need a dental crown.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are a proven way to save a weak or damaged tooth, restore your bite, and improve your smile. The right material, careful planning, and simple daily care make a big difference. Ask questions, understand your options, and follow your dentist’s advice. With good habits and regular visits, many crowns last well over a decade—and often much longer.
FAQ
1) Does getting a crown hurt?
Your dentist numbs the tooth, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain. After treatment, mild soreness or sensitivity is common for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually help. Contact your dentist if pain is severe or doesn’t improve.
2) How long do dental crowns last?
Many last 10–15 years, sometimes longer with great care. Lifespan depends on the material, your bite forces, and habits like grinding or chewing ice. For tips, see how long dental crowns last.
3) Will my crowned tooth still get a cavity?
The crown itself won’t decay, but the tooth under it can—especially at the margin where crown meets tooth. Brush, floss, and attend regular dental checkups to reduce that risk.
4) Can I whiten a crown?
No. Whitening products don’t change the colour of crowns. If you’d like a brighter smile, talk to your dentist about whitening your natural teeth first and then matching any new crowns to the lighter shade.
5) Are same-day crowns as strong as lab-made crowns?
Same-day ceramic crowns can be very durable and convenient, but they aren’t right for every bite or every material. Complex cases or certain materials (like some zirconias or PFMs) may be better made by a lab.
6) How do I learn the basics before my appointment?
Start with this easy primer on what a dental crown is, then explore examples of when a crown is needed and realistic timelines for how long crowns last.
