Maintain excellent oral hygiene
Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily, paying special attention to the area around your crown.
Ceramic crowns
If you have damaged, chipped or misshapen teeth, ceramic crowns may help to restore and enhance your smile. Discover the benefits, procedure and care tips to see if ceramic crowns are right for you.
What are ceramic crowns?
Ceramic crowns are custom-made caps designed to completely cover a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength and appearance. Unlike traditional metal crowns, ceramic crowns are made from high-quality, tooth-colored materials that closely mimic the natural translucency and color of your teeth.
Why get ceramic crowns
These advanced dental restorations are meticulously crafted to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, offering a solution that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional. Whether you're dealing with a fractured tooth, severe decay or cosmetic imperfections, ceramic crowns provide a versatile option that can help you regain your confident smile.
Benefits of ceramic crowns
Natural appearance
Ceramic crowns are known for their ability to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Materials can be color-matched to your existing teeth to blend with your smile. This makes ceramic crowns a great choice for visible teeth, especially those in the front.
Durable
Ceramic crowns are designed to withstand the daily rigors of biting and chewing. Modern ceramic materials are engineered to be both strong and durable, providing long-lasting protection for your damaged tooth.
Bio-compatible
Ceramic crowns are metal-free, making them an ideal choice for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities. This bio-compatible option reduces the risk of allergic reactions and ensures a comfortable fit for years to come.
Stain resistant
High-quality ceramic materials are resistant to staining, helping your crown maintain its bright, natural appearance over time. This means you can enjoy your favorite foods and beverages without worrying about discoloration.
Minimal tooth reduction
Compared to some other types of crowns, ceramic crowns often require less removal of your natural tooth structure. This conservative approach helps preserve more of your healthy tooth, which is always a priority at Aspen Dental.
Ceramic crown process at Aspen Dental
Initial consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive dental examination. Our experienced dentists will assess your oral health, discuss your concerns and goals, and determine if a ceramic crown is the best solution for you.
Tooth preparation
First treatment is scheduled. During your visit, we’ll prepare your tooth for the crown by carefully removing any tooth decay or damaged portions of the tooth and shaping it to accommodate the crown.
Digital impressions
At Aspen Dental, we use advanced digital scanning technology to create accurate 3D images of your prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. This approach not only boosts accuracy but also improves your comfort during treatment.
Temporary crown
While your custom ceramic crown is being crafted in our partner lab, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth. This allows you to eat speak normally while you wait for your permanent crown.
Final placement
Skilled technicians create your ceramic crown using digital impressions and your dentist's specifications. When ready, you'll return for final placement, where we'll remove the temporary crown, check the fit and bond the new crown.
Follow-up and care instructions
After your crown is placed, your Aspen Dental care team will provide you with comprehensive care instructions to ensure you can maintain your new dental restoration effectively for a long-lasting smile for years to come.
Caring for your ceramic crown
With proper care, your ceramic crown can last for many years. Here are some tips to help you maintain your new smile:
Regular dental check-ups
Continue to visit Aspen Dental for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. These appointments allow us to monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues early.
Avoid hard/sticky foods
While ceramic crowns are durable, they can chip or crack under extreme force. Avoid biting hard candies, chewing on hard or sticky foods, ice or other tough foods, just as you would with natural teeth.
Wear a night guard if necessary
If you grind your teeth at night, ask your Aspen Dental dentist about a custom night guard to protect your crown and natural teeth from excessive wear.
Ceramic crowns vs other options
While ceramic crowns offer numerous benefits, it’s important to understand how they compare to other crown options. Here are the ways different materials for crowns stack up against each other¹:
Ceramic crowns | Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns | All-metal crowns | Zirconia crowns | |
| Material | Pure ceramic | Metal base with porcelain cover | Gold or metal alloys | Zirconia ceramic |
| Strength | Good | Strong | Very strong | Very strong |
| Appearance | Good | Good, but may show metal line | Poor–metallic look | Good, matches tooth color |
| Best for | Good | Front & back teeth | Back teeth | Back teeth needing durability |
Cost considerations and financing options
The cost of ceramic crowns can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case, the location of the tooth and any additional treatments required. While ceramic crowns may have a higher upfront cost compared to some alternatives, their longevity and aesthetic benefits often make them a worthwhile investment in your oral health and confidence.
At Aspen Dental, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality dental care. That’s why we offer a range of financing and insurance options to help make your ceramic crown treatment more affordable:
Insurance coverage
We accept most major dental insurance plans and can help you maximize your benefits. We do not accept Medicaid.
Aspen Dental Savings Plan
With the Aspen Dental Savings Plan, you get free exams and free X-rays for a low annual fee. We have a 100% acceptance rate for the ADSP.
Flexible payment plans
We partner with third-party lenders to make financing and payment plans that work with your life at Aspen Dental.
Why choose Aspen Dental for your ceramic crown?
At Aspen Dental, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care with a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction. When you choose us for your ceramic crown, you benefit from:
Experienced dentists
Our skilled dental professionals have extensive experience in placing ceramic crowns and other restorations.
Advanced technology
We use the latest dental technology to ensure precise, comfortable treatments and optimal results.
Quality materials
We partner with top dental labs to provide high-quality ceramic crowns that look natural and stand the test of time.
Comprehensive care
From your initial appointment to follow-up care, we’re with you every step of the way.
Flexible scheduling
With evening and weekend hours available at many locations, we make it easy to fit dental care into your busy life.
Affordable options
Our range of financing choices helps make quality dental care accessible to everyone.
Ceramic crowns FAQs
How long do ceramic crowns last?
With proper care, ceramic crowns can last over 5 years. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene habits can help extend the life of your crown.
Will my ceramic crown look natural?
Yes! Ceramic crowns are designed to mimic the color, translucency, and light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. Our skilled dentists and lab technicians work together to ensure your crown blends seamlessly with your smile.
Is the ceramic crown procedure painful?
No, the procedure is not painful. We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the tooth preparation process. After the procedure, you may experience some temporary sensitivity, but this typically subsides within a few days.
Can I whiten my ceramic crown?
Ceramic crowns are resistant to staining and cannot be whitened like natural teeth. If you’re considering teeth whitening, it’s best to do so before getting a ceramic crown so that we can match the crown to your desired shade.
What if my ceramic crown feels loose or falls off?
If your crown feels loose or falls off, contact Aspen Dental immediately. Do not attempt to reattach the crown yourself, as this can lead to further complications.