A weakened or damaged tooth
A crown may be considered when a tooth has extensive damage, a large restoration, or another structural concern. The remaining tooth must first be assessed for suitability.
General Dentistry / Treatment guide
Dental Crowns
A dental crown covers the visible part of a tooth when it needs more support than a smaller repair can provide. It is shaped to fit the prepared tooth and work with the rest of your bite.
Explore your options with our Atlas Dental team. Ask who would provide your treatment and whether a specialist referral is needed.
Let’s talk about your options See what care can involveA closer lookTreatment animation
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How a crown fits your tooth
A custom crown fits over a prepared natural tooth, while its root remains in place.
- 01Prepared tooth
- 02Custom crown
- 03Natural root
This example shows a crown on a natural tooth. The tooth preparation and crown material depend on the treatment plan.
Understanding your care
Coverage for a tooth that needs support
Start with the purpose of treatment, then explore what matters for your own care.
A considered material choice
Ceramic, metal, and combinations offer different characteristics. The location of the tooth, space available, bite forces, and appearance help guide the discussion about restorative material.
Part of a larger plan
Some teeth need other treatment before a crown is suitable. The health of the root and gums matters as much as the appearance of the final restoration.
From questions to a plan
What care can involve.
The details and sequence depend on your assessment and individual treatment plan.
Evaluate the foundation
The dentist assesses the tooth, supporting tissues, and bite. Relevant imaging and symptoms help determine whether the tooth can support a crown or needs another approach.
Prepare and record
The tooth is shaped, and an impression or scan records the area. A temporary restoration may be used while the final crown is being made.
Check the fit
The crown is assessed for its margins, contacts, appearance, and bite. Adjustments are made as appropriate before the dentist decides it is ready to secure.
Place and maintain
The crown is attached to the prepared tooth. The surrounding gum and remaining tooth still require cleaning and periodic review alongside the restoration itself.
Before you decide
A plan that makes
sense for you.
Preparing for a crown removes tooth structure and is generally irreversible. Sensitivity, nerve problems, fracture, loss of retention, or decay at the margin can occur. A smaller restoration may be appropriate when enough sound tooth remains. The decision depends on the tooth’s condition, the expected demands on it, and the alternatives discussed with your dentist.
Is a crown the same as an implant?
No. This example shows a crown on a natural tooth. An implant replaces a missing root and can also support a crown, but it is a separate treatment.
Does every crowned tooth need a root canal?
No. A crown supports the outside of a tooth, while root canal treatment addresses problems inside it. Whether both are needed depends on the condition of that specific tooth.
How long will a crown last?
There is no guaranteed lifespan. Tooth condition, material, bite, cleaning, and maintenance all matter. A crown can need repair or replacement, so review remains part of ongoing care.
A place to begin
Bring your questions.
We’ll start there.
Talk through your priorities, alternatives and who would provide your care. An assessment helps clarify the next step.
Let’s talk about your optionsOur team will contact you to confirm your visit.
About this guide & educational sources
The treatment images and animations in this guide illustrate examples of care. They are not Atlas Dental patient results, personal treatment recommendations or statements about an individual clinician’s scope. Your assessment and care plan determine which options are appropriate for you.