A couple of my teeth have been worn down and need to be replaced. Should I opt for crowns?

When teeth become worn down from grinding, decay, or trauma, it’s natural to wonder what the best treatment option might be. For many patients, dental crowns (often called “caps”) are one of the most reliable ways to restore strength, function, and appearance. But are they the right choice for you?

This guide explains everything you need to know about dental crowns, including how they work, what they’re made of, their benefits and drawbacks, and what to expect during treatment.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s size, shape, and strength while also improving its appearance.

Dentists often recommend crowns when:

• Teeth are worn down from grinding (bruxism)
• Teeth are fractured or cracked
• A tooth has a large filling that weakens the structure
• Teeth are severely discolored or misshapen
• A tooth has had root canal treatment and needs reinforcement
• To anchor a dental bridge
• To cover a dental implant

👉 Learn more from the MouthHealthy.org

What Materials Are Crowns Made From?

Crowns can be crafted from different materials, each with its own advantages:

1. All-Porcelain (Ceramic) Crowns

• Best for aesthetics: closely mimic the look of natural teeth
• Biocompatible: safe for patients with metal sensitivities
• Require more tooth reshaping for adequate thickness
• Typically used for front teeth where appearance matters most

2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

• Blend tooth-colored porcelain with a strong metal base
• Stronger than all-porcelain crowns
• Can sometimes show a faint dark line at the gumline

3. Gold Alloy Crowns

• Extremely strong and long-lasting
• Gentle on opposing teeth (don’t cause excessive wear)
• Biocompatible, but metallic appearance is less aesthetic

4. Base Metal Alloy Crowns

• Very durable and resistant to corrosion
• Require minimal removal of tooth structure
• May cause allergies in sensitive patients

👉 Mayo Clinic also notes that your crown material depends on function, location, and budget

Advantages of Dental Crowns

• Strength and Protection: Reinforce weak teeth and prevent fractures
• Restored Function: Allow you to chew comfortably again
• Aesthetics: Match natural teeth in color and shape
• Durability: With proper care, crowns can last 10–15 years or more
• Preventative Value: Crowns can sometimes prevent the need for root canals or extractions

Are There Drawbacks?

While crowns are highly effective, there are some considerations:

• Cost: More expensive than fillings or bonding
• Tooth Preparation: Requires reshaping of the natural tooth
• Replacement: Crowns eventually need to be re-cemented or replaced due to wear
• Potential Sensitivity: Some patients notice temporary sensitivity after placement

What to Expect During the Crown Procedure

Crowns are usually placed in two appointments:

1. First Visit: Preparation

• The dentist examines and reshapes the tooth
• Impressions or digital scans are taken
• A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is made

2. Second Visit: Placement

• The temporary crown is removed
• The permanent crown is fitted, adjusted, and cemented in place

Some modern practices also offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology.

Do Crowns Hurt?

Most patients report that the procedure itself is comfortable and pain-free thanks to local anesthesia. You may feel slight pressure or vibration during tooth preparation, but not pain.

After the procedure, you may notice:

• Mild sensitivity to hot/cold for a few days
• Some soreness in the gums around the crown
• Temporary discomfort when chewing

These symptoms typically fade quickly. Over-the-counter pain relievers and avoiding hard foods help ease the adjustment period.

👉 The Cleveland Clinic notes that crown placement is routine and well tolerated by most patients.

How Long Do Crowns Last?

The lifespan of a crown depends on the material, your bite, and your oral hygiene. On average:

• Porcelain or PFM crowns: 10–15 years
• Gold or metal crowns: 15–20 years or more

Good oral care, avoiding hard chewing, and wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth can extend crown life significantly.

Alternatives to Crowns

Depending on your situation, alternatives may include:

• Dental bonding: For small chips or wear
• Veneers: For cosmetic improvements of front teeth
• Inlays/onlays: For moderate damage that doesn’t require a full crown
• Dental implants: If the tooth is too damaged to save

Your dentist will help you decide which treatment makes the most sense for your needs and budget.

FAQs About Crowns

Q: Do crowns look natural?
Yes—modern crowns are designed to match the color, size, and shape of your surrounding teeth.

Q: Can crowns fix worn teeth from grinding?
Yes, but a nightguard is often recommended afterward to prevent damage to the new crowns.

Q: Do I need a root canal before a crown?
Not always. Root canals are only needed if the tooth’s pulp is infected or inflamed.

Q: How do I care for a crown?
Brush twice daily, floss once a day, and avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens. Regular dental checkups are essential.

Q: Can crowns fail?
While rare, crowns can crack or loosen. Prompt repair or replacement prevents further damage.

Final Thoughts

If your teeth are worn down and your dentist recommends crowns, it’s usually because they provide the best balance of strength, function, and long-term protection. While the investment is greater than a filling, crowns help prevent more serious dental issues down the line and restore your ability to smile and chew with confidence.

At Designing Smiles in Roseville, MN, Dr. Deborah Fung helps patients choose the crown material and treatment plan that best fits their lifestyle, health, and cosmetic goals.

Dr. Deborah Fung

Dr. Deborah Fung earned her dental degree with honors in 1992 from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. In addition to serving as a dental officer in the Minnesota Army National Guard for 12 years, she has also continued her education in many areas of dentistry, including orthodontics, endodontics (root canal therapy), implants, cosmetic dentistry, and oral surgery.