Modern Dental Crowns & Bridges: Stronger, Lighter, More Natural

Key Takeaways

• A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that restores damaged or decayed teeth, particularly after procedures such as root canals.
• Crowns typically last 10 to 15 years, but factors such as oral hygiene and the type of material used can affect their longevity.
• There are multiple types of crowns, including porcelain, metal, ceramic, resin, and gold, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
• Expert advice and proper care can significantly extend the life of your crown.

What is a dental crown, and why might you need one?

Imagine a damaged or decayed tooth that’s on the verge of collapse. A filling might not cut it. That’s where a dental crown steps in — a custom-made cap designed to cover the tooth entirely, restoring its function, shape, and appearance. Crowns are not just cosmetic; they’re foundational in modern restorative dentistry.

Definition and Purpose

A dental crown is a permanent prosthetic device cemented over a tooth or dental implant. It fully encases the visible portion of a tooth, sitting snugly above the gum line. The primary role is to reinforce weak or compromised teeth.

Common Scenarios Where Crowns Are Used

Dental crowns are recommended for a range of clinical reasons:

• After a root canal treatment, the tooth is sealed and protected.
• To restore a broken, chipped, or severely worn tooth.
• To cover a large filling where little tooth structure remains.
• To anchor a dental bridge.
• As a cosmetic enhancement to improve appearance, especially in discoloured or misshapen teeth.

"A dental crown not only restores the shape and strength of a damaged tooth — it protects it from further deterioration, often preventing the need for extraction."
— Dr. Camila Villarreal, DDS

Benefits of Getting a Crown

• Improved durability – significant after root canals
• Restored aesthetics – blends in with natural teeth
• Structural support – protects weak or cracked teeth
• Functional enhancement – restores biting and chewing strength

Let’s break down the benefits even more clearly:

What’s the takeaway? If your tooth is beyond what a filling can fix, a dental crown may be your best option.

How long does a crown last on average?

On average, a dental crown lasts between 10 and 15 years. However, longevity varies based on the materials used, dental hygiene habits, bite forces, and other factors.

Factors That Influence Crown Lifespan

Several variables can shorten or extend a crown’s life:

• Material type – Metal crowns typically last longer than resin or porcelain.
• Oral hygiene – Poor brushing/flossing habits can lead to decay at the crown’s base.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding) can cause premature wear.
• Diet – Consuming sugary or hard-to-digest foods accelerates damage.
• Cement quality and technique – Improper placement can weaken stability.

"Long-term success of a dental crown depends not just on materials, but also on the patient's habits — oral hygiene, diet, and even teeth grinding can make a significant difference."
— Dr. Yu (Rick) Feng, DDS

How to Extend Crown Life

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss carefully around the crown margins
• Use a night guard if you grind your teeth
• Avoid hard foods (ice, popcorn kernels, hard candy)
• Visit your dentist for routine exams and cleanings

While crowns aren’t forever, consistent care can push their lifespan well beyond the average range.

What are the different types of crowns available for teeth?

Choosing the right crown isn’t just about aesthetics — material plays a huge role in performance, comfort, and durability. There are five primary types of dental crowns, each suited to specific needs.

Porcelain Crowns

• Best for: Front teeth
• Pros: Highly aesthetic, mimics natural enamel
• Cons: Brittle under pressure; may chip or crack

Metal Crowns (Including Gold Alloys)

• Best for: Molars, patients with a strong bite
• Pros: Extremely durable, longest-lasting
• Cons: Noticeable colour, not suitable for visible areas

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)

• Best for: Visible and chewing areas
• Pros: Combines strength with aesthetics
• Cons: Risk of porcelain chipping, visible metal line

All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain

• Best for: Patients with metal allergies
• Pros: Excellent appearance, bio-compatible
• Cons: Less durable than metal-based options

Resin Crowns

• Best for: Temporary solutions
• Pros: Affordable, easy to fabricate, and quick
• Cons: Prone to fractures and wear

Here’s a detailed comparison to help clarify:

It’s essential to discuss your lifestyle, budget, and long-term dental goals with your dentist before making a decision. No one-size-fits solution exists — and that’s a good thing.

What does the tooth crown procedure involve from start to finish?

Many patients worry that getting a crown is a complex or painful process. The truth? It’s a structured, step-by-step process that your dental team will guide you through carefully. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation

First, your dentist assesses the condition of the tooth. This may involve:

• Visual examination and X-rays
• Checking for infection, decay, or cracks
• Evaluating gum health and adjacent teeth

If a crown is suitable, treatment planning begins. If not, alternatives such as veneers, inlays, or extractions may be discussed.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

Your dentist reshapes the affected tooth to make room for the crown. This includes:

• Numbing the area with local anesthesia
• Removing decay or old fillings
• Shaping the tooth for optimal crown fit

In cases where there’s significant damage, a core build-up may be necessary to add structure before the crown is placed.

Step 3: Impressions or Digital Scans

Now it’s time to create a model of your tooth:

• Traditional method: A putty-like material is used to take impressions
• Modern method: Intraoral scanners create a 3D digital model

This model is sent to a lab where your custom crown is made, usually taking 1–2 weeks.

Step 4: Temporary Crown Placement

While waiting for the permanent crown, your dentist fits a temporary one. It:

• Protects the prepped tooth
• Helps maintain chewing function
• Shield nerves from sensitivity

Temporary crowns are typically made from resin and are less durable. Avoid sticky foods and floss gently.

Step 5: Crown Fitting and Cementation

At your second visit (or later the same day if digital crowns are used), your dentist:

• Removes the temporary crown
• Checks fit, colour, and bite of the permanent one
• Makes minor adjustments
• Cements the crown using a strong dental adhesive

A quick polish finishes the process, and your tooth is fully restored.

How long does a dental crown procedure typically take?

It depends. Traditionally, crown procedures require two visits over one to two weeks, but modern dental technologies have changed the timeline.

Single vs. Multiple Visit Crowns

• Traditional crowns: Two appointments, spaced 1–2 weeks apart
• Same-day crowns (CEREC): Completed in one visit using 3D scanning and in-house milling machines

According to patient feedback on Canadian Dental Forums, most prefer traditional methods for back teeth due to material durability, while cosmetic front teeth are often done in a single visit.

Factors That Affect Procedure Time

• Tooth condition – More damage requires more preparation
• Crown material – Custom gold or layered porcelain takes longer to manufacture
• Technology used – CAD/CAM allows same-day crowns
• Lab turnaround time – Influences second appointment scheduling

On average:

• Traditional method: Two visits, 60–90 minutes each
• Digital CEREC: Single visit, 1.5 to 2 hours

Clinics like Markham Smile Centre often offer both options depending on the case, which gives patients flexibility.

Does getting a crown hurt during or after the procedure?

Pain is one of the top concerns, but with modern dentistry, discomfort is minimal and manageable.

During the Procedure

• Local anesthesia is used to numb the area entirely
• Most patients report feeling only pressure, not pain
• Root canal-treated teeth usually have no nerve, so the prep is painless

After the Procedure

It’s normal to feel some mild discomfort once the anesthesia wears off. Common symptoms:

• Gum soreness around the crown margin
• Slight sensitivity to temperature or pressure
• Tenderness in the jaw from keeping the mouth open

These symptoms typically resolve in a few days.

Pain Management Tips

• Over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen
• Salt water rinses to soothe gums
• Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for a few days
• Use sensitive-teeth toothpaste if needed.

How do you care for a dental crown to make it last longer?

Caring for a crown isn't complicated — but it does require diligence. The same habits that protect your natural teeth will go a long way toward extending the life of your crown.

Daily Oral Hygiene

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the crown surface
• Floss daily, especially around the base of the crown, where bacteria can hide

If you're prone to plaque buildup, consider adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine.

Dietary Tips

• Avoid hard and sticky foods: Popcorn kernels, caramels, and ice can dislodge or crack crowns
• Limit acidic and sugary drinks to reduce decay risk
• Stay hydrated to maintain saliva flow and protect oral tissues

"Crowns can fail prematurely if patients aren't mindful of what they chew on daily." — Dr. Yu (Rick) Feng, DDS

Preventive Measures

• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth (bruxism)
• Don’t use your teeth as tools (e.g., opening packages)
• Schedule dental checkups every 6 months.

Can a damaged crown be replaced or repaired?

Absolutely. But whether it’s repaired or replaced depends on the type and extent of the damage.

Common Reasons for Crown Damage

• Chipping of porcelain from trauma or bruxism
• Loosening due to adhesive failure or gum recession
• Cracks or breaks from biting hard substances

Repair vs. Replacement

Longevity of a New Crown

If a replacement is needed, expect a similar 10–15 year lifespan, assuming proper care. Some newer materials may last longer.

Who is a good candidate for a dental crown procedure?

Not everyone with a dental issue needs a crown. But for the right candidate, it can restore form, function, and confidence.

Clinical Criteria

You may be an ideal candidate for a dental crown if:

• You have a severely decayed or damaged tooth that cannot support a filling
• You’ve undergone a root canal, and the tooth needs protection
• You need to anchor a dental bridge or cover a dental implant
• You want to improve the appearance of a discoloured or misshapen tooth

Financial Considerations

Let’s face it — budget matters. While crowns are an investment in long-term oral health, costs vary:

• Insurance plans often cover medical crowns but not cosmetic ones
• Resin and metal crowns are typically more affordable than porcelain or gold crowns

Discussing costs with your dentist and insurance provider beforehand is essential.

Is a dental crown the right solution for your smile?

If you’ve been told a tooth is too weak for a filling or you’re dealing with structural damage, a dental crown might be the most effective path forward. But as with any treatment, it’s not one-size-fits-all.

Pros and Cons Summary

Explore Further

For authoritative information and dental care planning in Canada:

• Canadian Dental Association – Dental Procedures
• Canada.ca – Oral and Dental Health

Whether you’re repairing damage, restoring aesthetics, or improving function, crowns remain one of the most effective and versatile tools in modern dentistry.