Dental Crowns
Custom porcelain and zirconia crowns that restore strength and appearance to damaged or weakened teeth — natural-looking, durable, and built to last.
Saving Damaged Teeth With Crowns
A dental crown is essentially a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged tooth — restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but still healthy enough to save, a crown is usually the answer.
At River Street Dental, we use modern porcelain and zirconia crowns that look just like your natural teeth. Most people can't even tell which one is the crown.
When Do You Need a Crown?
Dr. Carroll might recommend a crown for a few different reasons:
After a root canal
Once a tooth has had a root canal, it's more brittle than a healthy tooth and prone to cracking. A crown protects it and lets you chew normally again.
A large filling that's failing
When a filling takes up too much of the tooth, the remaining tooth structure isn't strong enough on its own. A crown wraps around the whole tooth and gives it the support it needs.
A cracked or broken tooth
If you've cracked a molar or chipped a big piece off a tooth, a crown can hold everything together and prevent further damage.
Severe wear from grinding
If you grind your teeth at night, you may have worn them down over time. Crowns can rebuild the height and shape of those teeth so your bite works properly again.
To anchor a bridge
Crowns are also used as anchors for dental bridges, sitting on the teeth on either side of a missing tooth.
What to Expect
Getting a crown usually takes two visits, spaced about two weeks apart. Here's how it works:
- 1Dr. Carroll starts by numbing the tooth and the gum around it. Then he carefully shapes the tooth so the crown will fit over it like a glove.
- 2An impression of your tooth is taken — with a digital scanner (no more putty) and sent to our dental lab where your custom crown is made.
- 3You'll leave with a temporary crown that protects the tooth while you wait. It looks fine and you can eat normally, just avoid sticky or hard foods.
- 4About two weeks later, you come back for your second visit. Dr. Carroll removes the temporary, checks the fit and color of your permanent crown, and cements it in place.
Once the crown is in, it should feel completely natural. You'll be able to bite, chew, and brush just like a normal tooth.
What Crowns Are Made Of
Modern crowns are made from materials that look and function like natural teeth:
Porcelain — Looks the most natural — best for front teeth where appearance matters most.
Zirconia — Extremely strong and durable — great for back teeth that handle a lot of chewing pressure.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal — A traditional option that combines the strength of metal with the look of porcelain.
Dr. Carroll will recommend the best material based on which tooth needs the crown and what matters most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, a dental crown typically lasts 10 to 15 years — often longer. The lifespan depends on the material, your bite, and how well you take care of it.
Does getting a crown hurt?
No. Dr. Carroll numbs the area before any preparation, so you shouldn't feel anything during the procedure. Some patients have mild sensitivity for a day or two afterward, but it goes away quickly.
How many visits does a crown take?
Typically two visits. The first appointment is for prep and impressions — you'll leave with a temporary crown. The second is when your permanent crown is placed, usually about two weeks later.
If a tooth has been bothering you, or if you've been putting off treatment for a cracked or weakened tooth, a crown could be the fix. Give us a call and we'll take a look together.
Schedule a Consultation
Wondering if you need a crown? Bring your concerns in and we'll talk you through your options.
Book AppointmentQuick Facts
• Two visits, two weeks apart
• Lasts 10–15+ years
• Looks like a natural tooth
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