A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and appearance. At Dental Care 4U, Dr. Raj Khurana uses crowns to protect teeth weakened by decay, cracks, large fillings, or root canal treatment, so you can chew comfortably and smile with confidence.
Need a crown? Call (708) 333-2213 or book a consultation online.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
A crown covers the entire visible part of the tooth above the gumline. Your dentist may recommend one when:
- a tooth has decay too large for a filling
- an old filling is failing or too big for the tooth to support
- a tooth is cracked, chipped, or worn down
- a tooth has had a root canal and needs protection
- a dental implant or dental bridge needs a crown to complete it
- a tooth is badly discolored or misshapen
Not sure whether you need a crown? Learn the signs a tooth needs more than a filling.
Restoring Your Smile with Dental Crowns at Dental Care 4 U
Dental crowns are synthetic tooth caps that cover the entire tooth above the gum line. Crowns help replace teeth that have lost a significant amount of structure and can restore the tooth’s function and appearance. They strengthen damaged teeth by giving your teeth back their normal functions and original appearance.
These restorations can be made with various materials, including porcelain, porcelain-fused metal, and zirconia. Crowns are typically placed after a root canal procedure but can also be used for bridges, cover damaged implants, and prevent a cracked tooth from becoming loose. They’re also an aesthetic choice and can cover discolorations, giving back, in return, a natural appearance.
Crown Procedures and Treatment at Dental Care 4 U
Under the care of Dr. Raj Khurana, he can work with you to give you a smile you’ve always wanted. During your appointment, Dr. Khurana will perform a diagnostic exam to determine any health concerns impacting your oral health. After discussing your oral health, Dr. Khurana can plan out your crown treatment by discussing your goals for your new look, how crowns work, and scheduling an appointment for your treatment.
Dr. Khurana will perform your crown treatment across two appointments. He will perform the procedure under the following steps:
Cleaning and Preparation: During your first visit with Dr. Khurana, he will clean, numb, and shape the tooth for the new crown. Some of the tooth’s enamel will be removed to shape it for the crown. In cases where the tooth has little structure, the filling material will be used to support the crown.
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- Tooth Impressions: After the tooth is prepared, impressions will be taken of your teeth to help create a custom-design crown. The impressions will be sent to our dental laboratory to design the new crown.
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- Temporary Crown: In the meantime, a temporary crown will be placed onto the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is prepared.
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- Permanent Crown: Once the crown has arrived, your second appointment will involve our dentist attaching the crown to your tooth. Dr. Khurana will use a resin to bond and attach it to the tooth and use a curing light to harden the resin to the tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last?
On average, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years, but with good oral hygiene, they can last up to 25-30 years.
Do dental crowns look natural?
Yes, crowns are custom made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a realistic appearance.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth and gums are numbed before treatment, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Some sensitivity or soreness for a few days afterward is normal. Read more about whether getting a crown hurts.
How many visits does a crown take?
A traditional lab-made crown usually takes two visits, about two to three weeks apart, with a temporary crown in between. A same-day crown can be designed, made, and placed in one appointment if your tooth is a good candidate.
Operating for over 20 years, our team has provided dental care that’s reliable, affordable, and family-friendly. We always work with a gentle touch, and we will be here for you for all of your dental care needs. Contact Dental Care 4 U today to speak with Dr. Raj Khurana for an appointment.