Dental Crowns in Chicago
Custom Crowns to Protect and Restore Damaged Teeth
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. At 6 Corners Dental Studio in Portage Park, Dr. Julienne Hong places porcelain, ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and metal crowns, and replaces older crowns that are worn or no longer fit well.
Dr. Hong takes a conservative approach. She recommends a crown only when a tooth needs more support than a filling can give, and she explains your options, including materials, before treatment begins.
When Is a Dental Crown Needed?
A crown may be recommended when a tooth is:
- Too decayed or damaged for a filling
- Cracked, worn down, or fractured
- Weakened after root canal treatment
- Misshapen or discolored
- Supporting a dental bridge
- Being restored on top of a dental implant
If a tooth breaks suddenly or is causing pain, visit our emergency dentist page.
Dental Crown Replacement
Crowns don't last forever. If an older crown is cracked, loose, worn, or no longer matches your other teeth, Dr. Hong can remove it, check the tooth underneath, and place a new crown.
Types of Dental Crowns
Porcelain and Ceramic Crowns
Porcelain and ceramic crowns are matched to the color of your natural teeth, making them a common choice for front teeth and other visible areas.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
These crowns have a metal base for strength and a tooth-colored porcelain surface. They're often used for back teeth that need both durability and a natural look.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are very strong and resistant to wear, so they're usually used for molars and other teeth that aren't easily seen.
We'll go over each material during your visit and recommend the one that fits your tooth, bite, and preferences.
The Dental Crown Process
Most crowns take two visits.
Visit 1: Preparing the Tooth
After the area is numbed, the tooth is shaped to make room for the crown. We take digital impressions to design your crown and place a temporary crown to protect the tooth.
Visit 2: Placing Your Crown
When your custom crown is ready, Dr. Hong removes the temporary, checks the fit and bite, and bonds the new crown in place.
Benefits of a Dental Crown
- Restores chewing strength and your bite
- Protects a weakened tooth from further damage
- Improves the look of damaged or discolored teeth
- Fits comfortably, made for your tooth
- Supports bridges and implant restorations
Crowns are often part of a larger restorative dentistry or smile makeover plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — please bring a valid ID, your insurance card (if applicable), and a list of any current medications.
How long do dental crowns last?
With good care, crowns often last 10 to 15 years. How long yours lasts depends on your oral hygiene, the material used, and where the crown is in your mouth.
Will my crown feel like a natural tooth?
After a short adjustment period, a well-fitted crown should feel comfortable when you bite and chew. Let us know if your bite feels off, and we'll adjust it.
Will I feel anything during the procedure?
The tooth is numbed before preparation begins. Some sensitivity afterward is normal and usually fades within a few days.
How do I care for a crown?
Brush twice a day, floss carefully around the crown, and keep up with regular dental cleanings and exams.
Does insurance cover dental crowns?
Most PPO dental insurance plans cover crowns when they are medically necessary. Visit our Patient Info page or contact us to check your coverage.
Schedule a Dental Crown Visit in Chicago
If you have a damaged tooth or an older crown that needs replacing, we're here to help. 6 Corners Dental Studio serves patients throughout Chicago, Portage Park, and Norridge from our office on North Cicero Avenue.
Call (773) 481-9455, book online, or contact us to schedule your visit with Dr. Julienne Hong.
