Arcadia Dental Arts • Phoenix, AZ
Dental Crowns in Phoenix, AZ
Dental crowns are protective caps that cover the entire visible portion of a tooth—restoring strength, function, and a naturally beautiful appearance. For many patients, crowns are the difference between “save the tooth” and extraction.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A tooth has two parts: the root (below the gums) and the visible clinical crown. A dental crown is an artificial restoration that covers the entire visible part of the tooth down to the gumline. Crowns restore original shape and help protect a tooth from further damage.
- Restoring broken or breaking teeth
- Protecting weak teeth from fracture
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering an implant restoration
- Covering cosmetic imperfections (discoloration, misshapen teeth)
How a CEREC® Crown Is Produced
- Prepare the toothWe create space for the crown to fit naturally at the gumline.
- 3D scanA digital scan replaces messy impressions in many cases.
- DesignWe digitally design the crown for fit, bite, and aesthetics.
- Mill in-officeA ceramic block is milled to precise specs (often ~30 minutes).
- Fit + cementWe verify shade/fit and cement the crown for long-term function.
Can Crowns Be Whitened?
Whitening agents work on natural tooth enamel—crowns (porcelain/ceramic or composite) do not “whiten” the same way. If you’re planning whitening, it’s often best to whiten first so the crown can be shade-matched to your brighter smile.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
Crown lifespan depends on oral hygiene and bite forces. Ceramic doesn’t decay, but the tooth under the crown can. Habits like chewing ice, biting nails, or grinding can shorten longevity. With great care, crowns may last many years— sometimes decades.
- Brush twice daily and floss daily
- Keep routine exams/cleanings
- Avoid chewing hard objects (ice, pens, hard candy)
- Consider a nightguard if you grind/clench
How Do I Know if I Need a Crown?
Crowns are often recommended when a tooth is chipped, cracked, weakened, heavily filled, or needs full coverage for long-term stability. Crowns may also be used to restore implants or support bridges.
Contraindications & Considerations
Crowns may not be ideal in cases of severe grinding, significant bite issues, high tooth mobility, or certain metal allergies (depending on material). If the tooth is too small or structurally compromised, alternative plans may be needed.
Orthodontics + 4 Crowns — Before & After
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How Do I Care for My Dental Crown?
Crowns don’t require special care—keep great home hygiene and routine visits. When flossing, gently slide floss under the crown margins at the gumline on both sides to remove trapped debris.
Benefits of Crowns
A crown acts as a protective barrier—helping prevent further damage while restoring appearance. Crowns can correct fractures, cracks, discoloration, and shape issues for full-tooth restoration.
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Dental Crown FAQs
Answers to common questions. For a personalized plan, schedule a consultation.
A crown is a restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth down to the gumline to restore strength, function, and appearance.
Both can offer excellent fit and aesthetics. CEREC® often allows design and milling in-office for same-day placement, while lab crowns may offer broader material choices and typically require two visits with a temporary crown.
Whitening affects natural enamel; crowns (porcelain/ceramic or composite) do not whiten the same way. If whitening is planned, it’s often best to whiten first and then shade-match a crown.
Many crowns last 10–15+ years with good hygiene and routine care. Longevity depends on bite forces, habits (like grinding), and preventing decay around crown margins.
Recovery is usually straightforward. Mild sensitivity or soreness may occur for a day or two. Avoid very hard/sticky foods until you feel fully adjusted.
Brush and floss daily, keep routine exams/cleanings, avoid chewing ice/hard candy, and consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
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