At True Vine Dental Care, our approach to restorative dentistry balances modern materials with careful, patient-centered planning. We stay current with advances in dental ceramics and digital workflows so patients can expect restorations that are both reliable and natural in appearance. Our goal is to restore tooth health and function while preserving as much healthy structure as possible.
Teeth are remarkably strong, but they can still suffer significant damage from decay, injury, or the cumulative effects of wear and grinding. In many cases, a conservative filling is all that’s needed; in others, a full-coverage crown is the safest way to protect what remains of the tooth and restore predictable function.
All-ceramic or metal-free crowns give clinicians an important option when aesthetics and biocompatibility are priorities. These restorations are designed to mimic the optical properties of natural enamel and provide a durable, long-term solution for a wide range of restorative needs.
Every treatment plan starts with a careful evaluation of the tooth, the bite, and the overall smile goals. We tailor each restoration to the individual—considering strength requirements, gum health, and how the tooth will look next to its neighbors—so the final result feels natural and dependable.
A crown is recommended when a tooth needs more than a simple repair. Instead of relying on a large filling that may not adequately reinforce the tooth, a crown caps and protects the remaining structure, distributing chewing forces and reducing the risk of further fracture. This is especially important for teeth that bear heavy loads during chewing.
Common clinical situations that lead to crown placement include teeth with extensive decay, fractures that compromise structural integrity, and teeth that have undergone root canal therapy and need reinforcement. Crowns are also used to restore implants and to anchor bridges when neighboring teeth require full coverage.
Another reason to choose a crown is to correct form and function. Teeth that are severely worn, misshapen, or discolored in a way that impacts the bite or appearance can be predictably restored with a custom crown, improving chewing efficiency and the overall balance of the smile.
Deciding whether a crown is appropriate should always be based on a thorough exam and discussion of goals. We evaluate the tooth’s remaining enamel, periodontal health, occlusion (bite), and long-term prognosis to recommend the most conservative, durable option.
To rebuild a tooth with extensive decay or a structural fracture
To replace or cover a large, failing filling
To restore a dental implant or support a bridge
To protect and strengthen a tooth after root canal treatment
To correct significant wear, alignment issues, or discoloration affecting a single tooth
All-ceramic crowns are designed to blend optical beauty with practical performance. Because modern ceramics transmit and reflect light similarly to natural enamel, these crowns can produce highly lifelike results—particularly important in the smile zone where aesthetics matter most.
Beyond looks, contemporary ceramic materials provide substantial strength and wear resistance. Advances in material science mean certain ceramics can withstand the forces of posterior chewing while remaining thin enough to preserve more of the natural tooth during preparation.
Biocompatibility is another advantage of ceramic restorations. Being metal-free reduces the likelihood of galvanic reactions and is beneficial for patients who have sensitivities to metal alloys. Ceramic surfaces are also resistant to staining, helping crowns maintain their appearance over time.
Choosing a ceramic crown often means fewer compromises: you can achieve a restoration that supports chewing, respects adjacent soft tissues, and contributes to a harmonious, natural-looking smile.
Strong esthetics that closely mimic natural tooth translucency and gloss
Thinner restorations are possible with modern ceramics, preserving more tooth structure
Lighter, metal-free construction that is kinder to gum tissue and suitable for metal-sensitive patients
Resistance to common staining agents for long-lasting color stability
The process of receiving a ceramic crown typically begins with a detailed assessment and imaging to document the tooth and surrounding structures. Digital impressions or conventional molds are taken to capture accurate detail for the lab or in-office milling system to work from.
To prepare the tooth, the dentist removes any decay and shapes the remaining structure to create a stable foundation for the crown. Preparation aims to strike a balance: sufficient reduction for a durable restoration while preserving as much healthy tooth as possible.
In many practices, including ours, crowns can be fabricated with precise digital workflows that improve fit and shorten treatment times. Depending on the case, a temporary restoration may be placed until the final ceramic crown is ready, at which point the fit, color, and bite are verified before permanent cementation.
After placement, routine follow-up ensures the crown is functioning well and that surrounding gums remain healthy. With sensible home care and regular dental checkups, ceramic crowns can remain an effective part of a patient’s smile for many years.
Not all ceramics are identical, and selecting the ideal material depends on the tooth’s location, the amount of force it will encounter, and the aesthetic demands of the case. Clinicians choose from several modern ceramic systems to match those needs without sacrificing durability or appearance.
Popular choices include lithium disilicate, known for its excellent aesthetics and good strength for anterior and some posterior uses; pressed porcelain options that can be layered for superior color-matching; and various forms of zirconia that offer high fracture resistance and are often used where strength is the primary concern.
In many cases, the final decision combines material science with artistic judgment—matching translucency, shade, and surface texture so the crown integrates naturally with adjacent teeth. A careful shade selection and communication with the dental laboratory (or an in-office milling protocol) are essential to achieve the desired result.
Your clinician will explain the pros and cons of each material in the context of your smile goals and functional needs, recommending a solution that balances longevity, aesthetics, and the preservation of your natural tooth structure.
Lithium disilicate for lifelike translucency and balanced strength
Pressable porcelain options for refined surface characterization in visible areas
Monolithic or layered zirconia for high-load posterior restorations
High-translucent zirconia when both strength and enhanced aesthetics are needed
At our Longwood practice, we focus on predictable outcomes through careful planning and attention to detail. That means starting with a thorough evaluation, using contemporary materials, and following protocols that prioritize the long-term health of the tooth and surrounding tissues.
We pair technical precision with clear communication so patients understand each step of their treatment. From selecting the right ceramic to confirming color and fit at the final appointment, the process is designed to be transparent and patient-focused.
Our team emphasizes minimally invasive principles—preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible while delivering restorations that restore function and feel comfortable in everyday use. Post-treatment care and regular maintenance are part of the plan to keep your restorations performing well.
If you’re considering a ceramic crown or want to explore how a restoration could improve a problem tooth, our staff can walk you through the options and the clinical reasoning behind each recommendation. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an evaluation.
While a dental filling is designed to replace a portion of a decayed or damaged tooth, a dental crown offers full coverage to restore the tooth’s entire outer surface. A well-fitting dental crown not only protects and strengthens the underlying tooth structure, but it also restores the tooth’s appearance and function.
The procedure for getting an all-ceramic crown is much like the procedure for getting any other type of crown. In all cases, the tooth needs to be prepared, an impression taken, and a permanent crown cemented into place. A single all-ceramic crown can typically be fabricated over the course of two visits. However, with CAD/CAM technology, a same-day crown can be fabricated from start to finish in a single visit. With the first approach, a temporary crown is typically worn until the second visit, when the permanent restoration is placed. As with every treatment plan, our office will explain your best options in care.
As the name implies, a temporary crown is only worn for a short time until the permanent crown is placed. A temporary crown is typically fabricated from durable tooth-colored dental acrylics. While designed to protect the underlying tooth between appointments, and until your new permanent crown gets placed, a temporary crown is also fabricated to look like a natural tooth and maintain the look of your smile.
While you should feel better having an attractive and functional tooth to restore your smile, your tooth may feel a little sensitive following treatment. This initial sensitivity will subside. We take great care to make sure your new restoration looks great, fits well, and your bite is perfect. However, we’re always happy to make any minor adjustments to ensure your comfort.
With some exceptions, teeth with root canal procedures are typically restored and protected from further damage with a full-coverage crown. Based on what’s best for your smile, our office will recommend the most appropriate restoration to maintain the health and longevity of your tooth following a root canal procedure.
A dental crown is a long-term restoration that, if properly cared for, can serve you well for many years to come. Once your new crown is placed, it requires the same brushing, flossing, and periodic checkups as your natural teeth. Avoid biting your fingernails and chewing on hard or sticky objects such as ice, pencils, or taffy, which can damage or loosen your crown. Remember, clenching and grinding your teeth puts excessive pressure on both natural teeth and dental restorations. Unless treated, this habit can compromise the longevity and integrity of your dental work, including crowns.
Although your new all-ceramic crown restores the tooth's strength, form, and function, you can still develop dental disease in the absence of proper care. To prevent gum disease and tooth decay, it’s essential to brush and floss as instructed and see our office for routine checkups, cleanings, and care.
How long a dental crown lasts depends on various factors, including your level of oral care, diet, and oral habits. While the standard answer is that dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, existing literature confirms that most dental crowns remain in place at 15 to 20 years.
At the office of True Vine Dental Care, we strive to provide the highest quality of care to address all your dental needs. Once we’ve had the opportunity to examine your smile, we can give you a clear picture of any dental issues that are present, along with a quote for how much treatment will be. The cost of dental crowns can vary a little, depending on the type of crown and its location. Our goals are to provide the highest quality of care and help patients begin treatment without additional financial stress or delay. We’re always happy to answer all your questions on dental insurance coverage, available financing, and payment plans.
Coverage for all-ceramic crowns depends on your dental insurance plan. Today, many dental plans provide some level of coverage for all-ceramic crowns. At the office of True Vine Dental Care, we work with patients to optimize their dental benefits and get the care they need to maintain healthy and beautiful smiles!