According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, dental crowns remain one of the most frequently performed restorative procedures, with millions placed annually in the United States. If your dentist has recommended a crown, you’re probably wondering which material is right for your tooth, your smile, and your budget.
Dental crowns come in four main types: all-porcelain for natural appearance, porcelain-fused-to-metal for strength and aesthetics, all-metal for durability on back teeth, and all-ceramic for metal-free biocompatibility. Your Mesa dentist recommends the best option based on tooth location, bite force, and cosmetic goals. At East Valley Dental Professionals, Dr. Nathan Smith helps patients across Mesa, Tempe, and Chandler choose the crown that fits their unique needs.
What Is a Dental Crown and Why Might You Need One?
A dental crown—sometimes called a cap—is a tooth-shaped cover that fits completely over a damaged or weakened tooth. Think of it like a protective helmet for your tooth. The crown restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting what remains of your natural tooth structure underneath.
You might need a crown for several reasons. Large cavities that fillings can’t support often require crowns. Teeth weakened by root canal therapy need the added protection. Cracked or broken teeth benefit from the structural reinforcement. Crowns also anchor dental bridges and cover dental implants.
The American Dental Association notes that crowns are one of the most reliable ways to preserve a damaged tooth for many years. For Mesa families concerned about keeping their natural teeth as long as possible, crowns represent a proven solution.
At EVDP, we see crowns as a partnership between protecting your oral health and maintaining your confident smile. That’s why Dr. Smith takes time to explain your options rather than rushing you into a decision.
How East Valley Dental Professionals Approaches Crown Selection
When you visit our Mesa office for a crown consultation, Dr. Smith begins with a thorough examination. He evaluates not just the damaged tooth, but your entire bite, your grinding habits, and your cosmetic preferences. This comprehensive approach—developed over 30 years of practice—ensures you get a crown that performs well and looks natural.
The Four Main Crown Types We Offer
All-Porcelain Crowns
These crowns are made entirely of dental porcelain or ceramic material. They offer the most natural appearance because porcelain reflects light similarly to tooth enamel. We typically recommend all-porcelain crowns for front teeth where appearance matters most. Learn more about our porcelain crown services.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
These crowns have a metal core with porcelain layered over the outside. The metal provides exceptional strength while the porcelain creates a tooth-colored appearance. PFM crowns work well for back teeth that need to handle heavy chewing forces while still looking natural.
All-Metal Crowns
Made from gold alloy, palladium, or base metal alloys like nickel or chromium, all-metal crowns are the most durable option available. They withstand biting and chewing forces better than any other material and rarely chip or break. The tradeoff is their metallic color, which makes them best suited for molars that aren’t visible when you smile.
All-Ceramic Crowns
Similar to all-porcelain but made with different ceramic materials, these crowns offer excellent aesthetics and are completely metal-free. Patients with metal sensitivities or allergies often prefer this option. Modern ceramics like zirconia provide strength that rivals metal while maintaining a natural appearance.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Dr. Smith, a graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and member of the American Dental Association, personally guides you through the selection process. He’ll show you samples of each crown type, discuss how they’ll look and function in your mouth, and answer every question you have.
Our Mesa office opens at 6:30 AM Monday through Thursday, making it easier for working patients and busy parents to schedule appointments. If dental anxiety is a concern, ask about our sedation dentistry options to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Ready to explore which crown type is right for you? Schedule an appointment at East Valley Dental Professionals or call 480-838-3033. We serve patients throughout Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, and Gilbert.
What Patients Should Know Before Getting a Crown
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Most patients with damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth can benefit from crowns. You’re a good candidate if you have a tooth that’s structurally compromised but still has a healthy root. Patients who grind their teeth may need stronger crown materials or a nightguard to protect their investment.
What Happens During the Procedure
Crown placement typically requires two appointments. During the first visit, Dr. Smith reshapes the tooth to make room for the crown, takes impressions, and places a temporary crown. A dental laboratory then crafts your permanent crown from the selected material. At your second appointment—usually two to three weeks later—we remove the temporary and cement your permanent crown in place.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients experience minimal discomfort after crown placement. Your tooth may feel sensitive to hot or cold for a few days. Avoid sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours while the cement fully sets. After that, care for your crown just like your natural teeth—brush twice daily, floss daily, and keep up with regular dental checkups.
Understanding Costs
Crown costs vary based on material type and complexity. We work within your budget and accept most dental insurance plans. For patients without insurance, our in-house membership plan provides significant savings on restorative procedures. Visit our insurance and financing page for details.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years, and many last significantly longer. Metal crowns often last the longest—sometimes 20 years or more. All-porcelain and all-ceramic crowns generally last 10 to 15 years with good oral hygiene.
Several factors affect crown longevity: your oral hygiene habits, whether you grind your teeth, and the forces your crown experiences from chewing. At EVDP, Dr. Smith evaluates your crown at every checkup to catch any issues early. Patients who maintain regular visits often get the longest life from their crowns.
Which Crown Material Looks Most Natural?
All-porcelain and all-ceramic crowns provide the most natural appearance because they mimic how natural tooth enamel reflects and transmits light. These materials can be color-matched precisely to your surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
For front teeth where aesthetics are paramount, Dr. Smith typically recommends all-porcelain or high-quality ceramic crowns. For back teeth, PFM crowns offer a good balance of strength and natural appearance. During your consultation at our Mesa office, we’ll show you actual samples so you can see the difference between materials.
Are Dental Crowns Covered by Insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover crowns as a major restorative procedure, typically at 50% of the cost after your deductible. Coverage varies by plan, so we recommend checking with your insurance provider before your appointment.
Our front desk team at East Valley Dental Professionals can help verify your benefits and explain your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins. For patients without insurance or those whose plans don’t cover crowns, we offer flexible payment options and our membership plan to make treatment affordable.
Why Mesa Families Choose EVDP for Dental Crowns
Choosing the right dental crown involves balancing durability, appearance, and cost. It’s not a decision you should make alone or feel pressured into. At East Valley Dental Professionals, Dr. Nathan Smith brings over three decades of experience to help you understand your options clearly.
We believe informed patients make better decisions about their dental health. Whether you need a crown for a cracked molar, a tooth that’s had a root canal, or as part of a dental bridge, we’re here to guide you through the process with patience and expertise.
Take the next step toward protecting your smile. Call East Valley Dental Professionals at 480-838-3033 or schedule your crown consultation online. We proudly serve families in Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, and throughout the East Valley.
East Valley Dental Professionals
2058 S Dobson Rd, Suite 12
Mesa, AZ 85202
480-838-3033
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of dental crown is best for front teeth?
All-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns are best for front teeth because they look most natural. These materials reflect light like real enamel and can be precisely color-matched. Dr. Smith at EVDP helps Mesa patients choose the ideal material for visible teeth.
How long does it take to get a dental crown in Mesa?
Getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments over two to three weeks. The first visit involves tooth preparation and impressions. The second visit is for placing your permanent crown. EVDP’s early morning hours make scheduling convenient for busy patients.
Does EVDP offer same-day dental crowns?
Contact our Mesa office to discuss your timeline and options. While traditional crowns require lab fabrication, we work efficiently to minimize your wait time. Call 480-838-3033 to learn about our current crown placement process and scheduling availability.
Which dental crown material lasts the longest?
All-metal crowns, especially gold alloy, typically last the longest—often 20 years or more. However, they’re most suitable for back teeth due to their metallic appearance. For front teeth, well-maintained porcelain crowns can last 15+ years with proper care.
Where can I get a dental crown consultation in Mesa, AZ?
East Valley Dental Professionals offers comprehensive crown consultations at our Mesa location. Dr. Smith evaluates your tooth, discusses material options, and answers all your questions. Visit us at 2058 S Dobson Rd, Suite 12, or call 480-838-3033 to schedule.