A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged, weakened, or heavily restored tooth to restore its full function and appearance. SmileNOW Dental places porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and zirconia crowns in Corona, CA. Most crown cases are completed in 2 visits. Same-day consultations available.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
- A tooth with a large cavity too big for a filling
- A cracked or fractured tooth that needs protection
- A tooth after root canal treatment (to protect the weakened structure)
- A severely worn-down tooth from grinding (bruxism)
- A broken cusp or failed large filling
- A dental implant (the crown is the visible tooth portion placed on the implant post)
- A discolored or misshapen tooth that cannot be corrected with veneers or bonding
Types of Dental Crowns
| Crown Type | Material | Best For | Material Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain (all-ceramic) | Feldspathic porcelain or e.max | Front teeth, cosmetic priority | Tooth-colored; ceramic may chip or fracture. |
| Zirconia | Zirconium oxide | Back teeth, strong bite forces | Tooth-colored ceramic; chipping or fracture can occur. |
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) | Metal substructure, porcelain exterior | Any tooth, insurance-friendly | Porcelain exterior over metal; the porcelain may chip. |
| Gold / Metal alloy | Gold or base metal alloy | Back molars, minimal tooth removal needed | Metal alloys offer strength and durability; metallic appearance. |
At SmileNOW Dental, we most commonly place zirconia and all-ceramic crowns for a natural appearance and long-lasting strength. Our dentist will recommend the best material based on the tooth’s location, your bite forces, and your aesthetic goals.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost in Corona, CA?
Dental crowns at SmileNOW Dental typically cost $1,200–$1,800 per tooth depending on material and location. Most PPO dental insurance plans cover a portion of crown treatment when it is placed for restorative reasons — typically 50% after deductible. We verify your benefits before your appointment. Financing is available through CareCredit with 0% APR options for qualified patients.
The Crown Process at SmileNOW Dental
- Exam and X-ray — we evaluate the tooth, check the root health, and confirm a crown is the right treatment. A same-day consultation is available.
- Tooth preparation — the outer layer of the tooth is shaped to create room for the crown. If decay is present, it is removed first. A temporary crown is placed.
- Impressions — digital or physical impressions are taken and sent to our dental lab for custom fabrication (1-2 weeks).
- Crown placement — at your second visit, the temporary is removed and the permanent crown is cemented, adjusted for bite, and polished.
Dental Crowns FAQ
How long does a dental crown last?
There’s no single lifespan that applies to every crown. How long a crown serves depends on its material, the tooth’s location and condition, bite forces, oral hygiene, habits such as teeth grinding, and other individual factors. Crowns can chip, crack, loosen, or need replacement. Regular dental checkups let your dentist monitor the crown and the tooth underneath.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The crown preparation is performed under local anesthesia so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some patients experience sensitivity on the prepared tooth for a few days before the permanent crown is seated. Discomfort after the final placement is typically minimal and short-lived.
Does dental insurance cover crowns?
Most PPO dental plans cover dental crowns placed for restorative reasons (damaged, decayed, or post-root-canal teeth) at 50% of the allowed amount after deductible, subject to your annual maximum. Crowns placed for purely cosmetic reasons are generally not covered. We verify your specific benefits before your appointment at no charge.
How do I care for a dental crown?
Care for a crown the same way you care for natural teeth — brush twice daily and floss, including at the gumline around the crown. Avoid chewing very hard foods on a porcelain crown. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard will significantly extend the life of your crown.
Can a crown fall off?
Crowns can occasionally loosen or come off — usually due to decay forming under the crown, cement failure, or a bite issue. If your crown comes off, call SmileNOW Dental immediately at (951) 735-7300. Keep the crown and do not swallow it. We treat loose or lost crowns as a dental emergency and will see you the same day whenever possible.