When a filling isn't enough, a crown is
A crown covers the entire visible portion of a tooth — usually after a large cavity, a fracture or a root canal. Modern porcelain crowns look like real teeth, last 10–20+ years and protect what's left of the natural tooth.
Most crowns take two visits: one to prep and take an impression, one to cement the permanent crown a few weeks later. You'll have a temporary in between.
The benefits, plainly explained
Your treatment, step by step
Prep
Numb, shape the tooth so the crown will fit over it, take a digital impression.
Temporary crown
Protects the tooth while the permanent is being made (about 2–3 weeks).
Cement
Try in the permanent crown, check fit and bite, then permanently bond it.
Follow-up
A quick check 2 weeks later to make sure everything feels right.
Common questions
How long does a crown last?+
10–20 years on average. Some last 30+. Depends on your bite, your home care and where in the mouth it is.
Does it hurt?+
The prep visit involves freezing — you'll feel pressure but not pain. Some sensitivity to cold for a week or two afterwards is normal.
Why not just a big filling?+
Once a filling is more than about 60% of the tooth, the remaining structure is too weak. A crown covers and protects what's left.