Decayed, broken, and missing teeth affect your oral health and your self-confidence. When a tooth has suffered structural or cosmetic damage, a dental crown can restore a tooth's function and appearance. At Heritage Hunt Dental in Gainesville, VA, Dr. Chris Houser and Dr. Alexis Wilson design every crown to fit comfortably, match your surrounding teeth, and last.
A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible surface of a tooth.
Schedule a Crown Consultation
Same-day consultations available for urgent concerns. Call (703) 754-5800 or request online.
✓ Strengthen and protect a tooth where extensive decay has not left enough healthy structure for a traditional filling ✓ Protect a cracked, broken, or brittle tooth from further damage ✓ Restore and reinforce a tooth after a root canal procedure ✓ Cover a deeply discolored or irregularly shaped tooth ✓ Complete a dental implant procedure ✓ Serve as an anchor for a dental bridge
The Crown Process
Most crown placements require two appointments:
1
First visit: tooth preparation
The top and sides of the tooth are reshaped so the crown fits comfortably. If too much healthy tooth structure has been lost, the dentist builds the tooth up with filling material first so it will support the crown securely.
2
Impression and temporary crown
An impression or computer model is made of the prepared tooth. A temporary crown, typically made of composite resin, is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated at a dental lab.
3
Custom fabrication
Every crown is custom-designed to fit comfortably, align with surrounding teeth, and not interfere with bite or jaw movement.
4
Second visit: permanent placement
The finished crown is tried in and any needed adjustments are made to ensure it fits properly. When the placement is ideal, the crown is secured permanently using a special dental cement.
Types of Dental Crowns
Crowns are made of several different materials. Your choice can be based on factors such as durability, visibility, natural appearance, and cost:
Type
Description
All-porcelain / All-ceramic
Color-matched and translucent — the most realistic-looking option, especially for front teeth. Also suitable for patients with metal allergies.
Porcelain fused to metal
A porcelain layer applied over a metal core, matched to your natural enamel color. Very realistic-looking, though slightly less translucent than all-porcelain.
Metal (gold / platinum alloy)
The longest-lasting crown material. Often chosen for back molars where they are less visible.
Stainless steel
Typically used for primary (baby) teeth. A durable, cost-effective option when a crown is needed for a child's tooth.
Composite resin
A more affordable choice than porcelain or metal, but much less durable. Generally used only as a temporary crown while the permanent one is being fabricated.
Because a crown improves both the form and the function of a tooth, it is one of the most popular restorative treatments available. Talk to your dentist to discover how a crown can enhance the health and appearance of your smile. Contact our office or call (703) 754-5800.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth between two crowns placed on the neighboring teeth. Bridges are a fixed, non-removable solution to tooth loss. If you are missing a tooth and unsure whether a bridge or an implant is the better fit, your doctor will walk you through both options at your consultation.
How long does a dental crown last?
A well-placed crown typically lasts 10 to 15 years, and often longer with good oral hygiene. Longevity depends on the material and whether you grind your teeth. Your dentist may recommend a nightguard if grinding is a factor.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the appointment. Some sensitivity around the prepared tooth is normal for a few days afterward and typically resolves on its own.
Is a crown covered by dental insurance?
Crowns are typically classified as a major restorative procedure and covered at 50% after deductible, depending on your plan. We will verify your coverage before your appointment. Call (703) 754-5800 with any questions.
How is a crown different from a veneer?
A crown covers the entire tooth; a veneer covers only the front surface. Crowns are used when significant structural damage has occurred. Veneers are primarily cosmetic. Learn more about porcelain veneers.
Insurance Accepted
Aetna • Anthem • Blue Cross Blue Shield • Cigna • Connection Dental GEHA • Delta Dental • Guardian • Humana • MetLife • United Concordia • CareCredit financing
Office Hours
Mon – Thu: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sat – Sun: Closed
(703) 754-5800 7100 Heritage Village Plaza, Suite 101 Gainesville, VA 20155
Questions about dental services in Gainesville, VA? We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about any of our procedures - from porcelain veneers and dental implants to teeth whitening and dental Botox. We look forward to hearing from you.
