A dental crown is one of the most common and versatile restorations in modern dentistry. Whether you have a cracked tooth, a large cavity, or a tooth weakened by root canal therapy, a crown can restore its strength, shape, and appearance. At Westar Dental in Westerville, Ohio, Dr. Hanul Oh place hundreds of dental crowns each year using the latest materials and techniques to deliver results that look and feel completely natural.
This guide covers everything you need to know about dental crowns, including the different types available, when you might need one, what the procedure involves, how much they cost in the Westerville and Columbus area, and how to care for your crown so it lasts as long as possible.
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the entire visible portion of a tooth, from the gum line up. It completely encases the tooth, restoring its original size, shape, strength, and appearance. Think of it as a protective helmet for a damaged or weakened tooth. Once cemented in place, a well-made crown is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Crowns differ from fillings in an important way. While a filling repairs a specific area of damage within a tooth, a crown covers and protects the entire tooth structure. This makes crowns the preferred restoration when damage is too extensive for a filling alone to provide adequate strength.
Not all crowns are created equal. The material your dentist recommends depends on the location of the tooth, your bite forces, aesthetic goals, and budget. Here are the most common types of dental crowns available at Westar Dental:
All-porcelain crowns, also called all-ceramic crowns, offer the most natural appearance. They are translucent in a way that closely mimics real tooth enamel, making them the top choice for front teeth and any teeth visible when you smile. Modern porcelain crowns are significantly stronger than those made a decade ago, though they are still best suited for teeth that do not bear the heaviest chewing forces.
Zirconia is a ceramic material known for exceptional strength and durability. Zirconia crowns can withstand the intense bite forces of back teeth while still providing a natural, tooth-colored appearance. They are highly resistant to chipping and cracking, making them an excellent all-around choice for both front and back teeth. Many dentists, including Dr. Oh, consider zirconia the gold standard for posterior crowns.
PFM crowns feature a metal substructure covered with a layer of tooth-colored porcelain. They combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. However, a thin dark line can sometimes become visible at the gum margin over time as gums recede. For this reason, PFM crowns have become less popular as all-ceramic options have improved.
Gold and base metal alloy crowns are the strongest and most durable crown type. They require the least removal of natural tooth structure and are extremely gentle on opposing teeth. While they lack the natural appearance of tooth-colored options, they remain an excellent choice for back molars that are not visible when you smile, especially for patients with heavy bite forces or grinding habits.
Dr. Oh may recommend a dental crown in several situations:
Getting a dental crown at Westar Dental typically involves two appointments, though same-day options may be available for certain cases.
Your dentist begins by numbing the area around the tooth with local anesthetic so you feel no discomfort. The tooth is then carefully shaped by removing a thin layer of enamel from all sides, creating room for the crown to fit over it. The amount removed depends on the crown material selected, typically between one and two millimeters.
Once the tooth is prepared, a precise digital impression or traditional mold is taken. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians craft your custom crown. Your dentist also selects a shade that matches your surrounding teeth for a seamless blend.
Before you leave, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while your permanent crown is being fabricated, which usually takes one to two weeks.
At your second visit, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is tried in. Dr. Oh will check the fit, bite alignment, and color match, making any necessary adjustments. Once everything looks and feels right, the crown is permanently cemented in place.
The entire process is straightforward, and most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it is. With modern anesthetics and techniques, getting a crown is a routine procedure with minimal discomfort.
Dr. Oh provide expert crown restorations using premium materials for results that look and feel natural. Schedule your consultation today.
The cost of a dental crown depends on the material chosen, the complexity of the preparation, and whether any additional procedures like a build-up or post are needed. In the Westerville and greater Columbus area, dental crown costs generally fall within these ranges:
Dental insurance typically covers a portion of the cost of crowns when they are deemed medically necessary. At Westar Dental, our team will verify your insurance benefits before treatment and provide a clear estimate of your out-of-pocket cost. For patients without insurance, we offer our Dental Savings Plan and flexible financing options to make treatment accessible.
With proper care, a high-quality dental crown can last 15 to 25 years or even longer. The longevity of your crown depends on several factors:
A crowned tooth requires the same care as your natural teeth. Follow these guidelines to maximize the life of your restoration:
A dental crown is a proven, time-tested restoration that can save a damaged tooth and keep it functioning beautifully for decades. At Westar Dental in Westerville, Ohio, Dr. Hanul Oh (DDS, NYU) and Dr. Hanul Oh (DDS, NYU) combine clinical precision with an eye for aesthetics to deliver crown restorations that patients love. Whether you need a single crown or a comprehensive treatment plan, our team is here to help.
Contact us at 614-568-4021 or book online to schedule your appointment at 845 Polaris Pkwy, Westerville, OH 43082.
Natural-looking crowns crafted with precision by Dr. Hanul Oh. Protect your teeth and restore your smile.