2026 Update
Reading time: three minutes
When a tooth becomes weakened by decay, damage, or root canal treatment, a dental crown restores the strength and protection that it needs to function normally. While crowns all serve the same purpose, they do not all perform the same way. The material used affects durability, appearance, comfort, and longevity.
How Dental Crowns Restore and Protect Teeth
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a prepared tooth. It restores structure, protects against further damage, and allows the tooth to function normally again.
Dentists commonly recommend crowns to:
- Protect teeth after root canal treatment
- Restore cracked, broken, or heavily filled teeth
- Strengthen teeth weakened by decay
- Improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth
Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist selects the crown type based on location, bite forces, appearance goals, and overall oral health.
Dental Crown Materials Offered at Morris Dental Solutions
Our dentists focus on four crown options that consistently perform well in real-world use: porcelain, metal, zirconia, and same-day crowns.
Each option serves a specific purpose depending on where the tooth is located, how much pressure it takes, and what matters most to you in terms of appearance and convenience.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are designed to closely resemble natural tooth enamel. Their color and translucency allow them to blend smoothly with nearby teeth, which makes them a common choice for front teeth and other highly visible areas.
Porcelain is chosen because it:
- closely matches natural tooth color
- contains no metal
- resists staining from food and beverages
- provides a natural appearance when smiling and speaking
Things to consider:
- Not as strong as metal-based crowns
- Can chip under heavy biting forces
- Typically require detailed lab customization
Porcelain crowns are most appropriate when appearance is the primary concern and bite pressure is moderate.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns remain one of the strongest options in dentistry. We exclusively use high noble metals, most commonly Type III gold, for our metal crowns. These materials are well known for their strength, longevity, and excellent compatibility with natural teeth.
Metal is chosen because it:
- Is extremely resistant to cracking or fracture
- Requires less removal of healthy tooth structure
- Withstands heavy chewing forces
- Often lasts longer than other crown materials
Things to consider:
- Metallic appearance
- Best suited for back teeth rather than visible areas
Metal crowns are less common in adult dentistry but remain a practical option for children who need durable tooth protection.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns offer both durability and a tooth-colored finish. They are strong enough for back teeth while still providing a natural appearance for visible areas.
Zirconia is chosen because it:
- Provides high fracture resistance
- Has a natural tooth-colored appearance
- Is biocompatible
Things to consider
- Higher cost compared to some options
- Limited cosmetic adjustments after fabrication
Zirconia crowns work well for patients who want strength without sacrificing a natural look.
Same-Day Crowns
This option allows your dentist to design and place a permanent crown in a single visit, eliminating the need for a temporary crown or return appointment
Many patients choose same-day crowns because they:
- Do not require a temporary crown
- Do not require a second appointment
- Are made from durable, tooth-colored ceramic materials
Things to consider
- Not ideal for every case
- Insurance coverage may vary
Same-day crowns are a good option for patients with busy schedules who want efficient treatment without compromising quality.
Choosing the Right Crown Material
The right crown material depends on how the tooth is used, where it is located, and what matters most to you in terms of appearance, durability, and convenience. Your dentist will review these factors with you and recommend an option that supports long-term function while fitting your needs.
Dental Crown Options in Buffalo Grove, IL
If you need a dental crown or are replacing an existing one, our team is here to help you review your options and move forward with the right treatment.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Buffalo Grove, IL, call (847) 215-1511 or visit us at 195 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Suite 160, Buffalo Grove, IL.
FAQ
How much does a dental crown cost?
Without insurance, dental crowns typically range from $1,200 to $3,000. Cost depends on the material used, treatment complexity, and geographic location.
Most crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care, though longevity varies based on material and oral habits.
Dentists use local anesthesia during crown placement. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
A crown restores an existing tooth. Missing teeth typically require a dental implant or bridge to support a crown.
Dental crowns are designed to be a long-term solution, but they are not considered permanent. With proper care, most crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer before needing replacement due to normal wear, changes in the tooth underneath, or damage over time.
