A Durable, Natural-Looking Solution for Damaged Teeth
At Ballantyne Family Dental, we use porcelain crowns to restore teeth that have been weakened by decay, fracture, or previous dental work. A crown fits over the entire visible portion of a tooth, protecting it from further damage while giving you back a strong, natural-looking bite. Beyond restoring function, porcelain crowns are custom-shaded and shaped to blend seamlessly with your smile.
What Is a Porcelain Crown?
A porcelain crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a tooth that has been cracked, broken, or significantly decayed. Unlike metal or metal-fused crowns, porcelain crowns are prized for their tooth-like translucency, making them nearly indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Once placed, a crown does more than improve appearance — it reinforces the tooth's structure, restores your ability to chew comfortably, and eliminates the rough or jagged edges left behind by damage.
When Is a Porcelain Crown Needed?
Crowns are one of the most common restorations in dentistry, and most patients will need at least one at some point. You may need a porcelain crown if you have:
- A tooth that has cracked or fractured
- A large, aging filling that has weakened the surrounding tooth
- A tooth following root canal therapy, which often needs a crown for long-term protection
- Severe decay that can't be corrected with a filling alone
- A tooth that has broken from biting into something hard
If you're dealing with sudden tooth pain or a cracked tooth, don't wait to have it evaluated — untreated cracks tend to worsen over time and can lead to more involved treatment.
Other Ways Porcelain Crowns Are Used
Crowns aren't just for damaged teeth. They're also used to:
- Cap a dental implant and complete a tooth replacement
- Anchor a fixed bridge in place of one or more missing teeth
- Cover a tooth that's misshapen, discolored, or cosmetically uneven
What to Expect During Your Porcelain Crown Procedure
Getting a porcelain crown typically takes two visits:
First visit:
- We numb the area with local anesthetic to keep you comfortable
- The damaged tooth is gently reshaped to make room for the crown
- An impression is taken to custom-design your permanent crown
- A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until your next visit
Second visit:
- Your temporary crown is removed
- The custom-made permanent porcelain crown is fitted and bonded into place
- We make small adjustments so your bite feels natural and comfortable
If dental anxiety makes procedures like this stressful for you, ask us about our sedation dentistry options to help you stay relaxed throughout treatment.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Porcelain Crown?
Most patients with a cracked, broken, or heavily decayed tooth are candidates for a porcelain crown. During your exam, Dr. Vinita Patel or a member of our team will evaluate the extent of the damage and walk you through whether a crown, filling, or another restoration is the right fit. Every crown we place is custom-made, so it looks and feels like a natural part of your smile.
Caring for Your Porcelain Crown
A well-placed porcelain crown can last for many years with the right care. To help your crown go the distance:
- Brush twice daily and floss around the crown just as you would a natural tooth
- Avoid biting down on very hard foods, ice, or non-food objects
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Keep up with routine cleanings and exams so we can monitor the crown's fit and condition
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do porcelain crowns last?
With proper care, porcelain crowns typically last between 10 and 15 years, and many last even longer. Regular checkups allow us to catch any wear or fit issues early.
Is getting a crown painful?
No. We numb the tooth and surrounding area with local anesthetic before reshaping it, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure. Mild sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal.
Will my crown look natural?
Yes. Porcelain crowns are custom-shaded and shaped to match the color, size, and translucency of your surrounding teeth, so the result blends in naturally with your smile.
What's the difference between a crown and a veneer?
A crown covers the entire tooth and is typically used to restore strength after damage or decay, while a porcelain veneer only covers the front surface and is generally used for cosmetic changes on healthy teeth.
Do I need a temporary crown while I wait for my permanent one?
Yes. A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth between your first and second appointments while your permanent porcelain crown is custom-made.
Want to Schedule an Appointment?
If you're dealing with a damaged tooth or think you may need a crown, contact us today to schedule your consultation with Ballantyne Family Dental.
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