Porcelain Crowns
A damaged or severely decayed tooth can affect both the health and appearance of your smile. Porcelain crowns are custom-made restorations that fully cover and protect compromised teeth while restoring strength, shape, and natural appearance. Our office provides high-quality dental crowns for patients in Mt Vernon, NY using modern materials and precise fabrication techniques.
Crowns are commonly recommended after major decay, fractures, root canal treatment, or to complete dental implant restorations.
Request an AppointmentWhen Is a Dental Crown Necessary?
A crown may be recommended when a tooth cannot be predictably restored with a simple filling. Common situations include:
- Large tooth decay
Extensive cavities that weaken tooth structure. - Broken or cracked teeth
Crowns hold the tooth together and restore function. - Severe discoloration
Deep stains that cannot be corrected with whitening. - After root canal treatment
Adds reinforcement to prevent fracture. - Dental implants
Crowns serve as the visible replacement tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns
- Temporary crowns
Usually made from acrylic or composite and worn while the final crown is being fabricated. - Traditional permanent crowns
Long-term restorations made from porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal alloys, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. - Implant-supported crowns
Attached to a dental implant using cement or screw retention. - Same-day porcelain crowns
Select patients may qualify for in-office fabrication using CEREC® technology.
Benefits of Porcelain Crowns
- Natural tooth appearance
Color-matched to blend with surrounding teeth. - Strong and protective
Reinforces weakened teeth. - Restores full function
Allows comfortable chewing and speaking. - Long-lasting solution
Designed for durability with proper care.
Crown Care and Longevity
Dental crowns should be brushed and flossed like natural teeth. Avoid chewing extremely hard objects and attend regular dental checkups so the crown and underlying tooth can be monitored. With proper care, many crowns last well over a decade.
Porcelain Crown FAQs
What is a porcelain crown?
A porcelain crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, weakened, or heavily restored tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage.
How long do porcelain crowns last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, porcelain crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Longevity depends on factors such as bite forces, grinding habits, and overall dental care.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The procedure is performed using local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Some mild sensitivity may occur after treatment, but it typically resolves quickly.
Are porcelain crowns better than metal crowns?
Porcelain crowns provide a natural, tooth-colored appearance that blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth. Metal crowns may offer exceptional durability in certain back-tooth situations. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on function and aesthetics.
Can a crowned tooth still get decay?
Yes. While the crown itself cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath can develop decay at the margin if proper brushing and flossing are not maintained. Good daily hygiene and routine checkups are essential.
How long does it take to get a crown?
Traditional crowns typically require two visits: one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and another to place the final crown. In some cases, same-day crowns may be completed in a single appointment if appropriate.