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When a tooth becomes too damaged for a filling to fix, a dental crown offers one of the most dependable solutions in restorative dentistry. Crowns protect weakened teeth, restore function after a root canal, and anchor a dental bridge — making them one of the most versatile procedures in modern dental care. Whether the damage comes from decay, a fracture, or years of wear, a well-placed crown can return a tooth to full strength and a natural appearance.
Dental Group of Chicago provides dental crown restorations as part of a full range of cosmetic dentistry services in the South Loop and Bucktown. The practice is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., making it easier to schedule treatment without missing work. With in-network PPO coverage and most procedures handled in-house, patients can count on a streamlined experience from start to finish.
A dental crown is a custom-made cap cemented over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. It is used when a tooth is too compromised for a filling alone — such as after extensive decay, a fracture, or a root canal procedure. According to the American Dental Association, crowns can also anchor dental bridges and cover implants. The right material depends on the tooth’s location and the patient’s goals:
Porcelain crowns closely match the look of natural teeth, making them the most popular type of dental crown. Because of this, porcelain crowns are often used on the front teeth to create a seamless blend with the neighboring natural teeth. However, porcelain crowns are not as strong as some other dental crowns, and they are often a more expensive option.
Metal crowns are typically made using a mix of gold, nickel, and chromium to create a strong, long-lasting result. They tend to be the longest-lasting dental crown option and are often used on the back molars that experience a higher level of pressure from biting and chewing.
While resin crowns are a cost-effective option, they are typically used as temporary restorations while your permanent crown is being crafted at the lab. They are more fragile than other crown types and not intended for long-term use. A newer alternative worth asking about is zirconia: zirconia crowns offer a combination of durability and natural aesthetics, making them a popular choice for patients who want strength without a visible metal line.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine the strength of a metal crown with the aesthetics of a porcelain crown to create a strong but visually appealing prosthetic. The core of the crown is made of metal, while the outer coating is made of porcelain to match the crown to the teeth surrounding it. With proper dental care, PFM crowns can last just as long as a fully metal crown.
Your dental crown placement will typically take two or more appointments. At the initial visit, your dentist prepares the tooth by shaping and removing some natural enamel, takes digital scans to send to the dental lab, and places a temporary crown to protect the tooth. Once your permanent crown arrives, you return to have it checked for fit and color, then cemented into place. Minor follow-up adjustments are sometimes needed to ensure the crown sits comfortably and does not affect your bite. If you notice any pain or sensitivity after placement, contact the office for an evaluation.
Most patients return to normal activity right after crown placement. Some sensitivity around the gumline is common in the first few days and typically resolves on its own. To protect the crown long term, maintain a consistent oral care routine that includes brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular dental cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that could loosen or crack the restoration. If your crown feels loose, painful, or damaged at any point, call the office promptly for an evaluation.
Dental crowns and veneers are among the most common cosmetic dental procedures. While both provide tooth coverage, they serve different purposes. A crown covers the entire visible tooth and is used to restore function and structural integrity. A veneer covers only the front surface and addresses cosmetic concerns like discoloration, minor chips, or gaps. Understanding the difference helps you and your dentist choose the right path. For surface-level improvements, tooth bonding is another option worth discussing with your provider.
Dental crowns are designed to protect the entire tooth when it has been damaged and needs additional support. While they do provide cosmetic benefits by creating natural-looking teeth, the main goal of a dental crown is to restore function to an otherwise broken tooth.
Veneers are crafted to cover the front of a tooth to hide minor imperfections like cracks, gaps, discoloration, or misshapen teeth. Veneers are considered a cosmetic dental procedure as they do not add any additional function or support to the teeth and are used for aesthetic purposes.
Dr. Reznikov completed his dental education at the University of Illinois College of Dentistry and has since developed one of Chicago’s most comprehensive restorative practices. His team handles dental crowns entirely in-house — from the initial evaluation and digital scans through placement and final adjustments — without the need for outside referrals.
Raised in the Chicago suburbs, Dr. Reznikov built his practice around what he calls “unreasonable hospitality”: exceptional clinical outcomes paired with a genuinely welcoming environment. His team offers a comfort menu — heated blankets, a coffee bar, Netflix, eucalyptus wipes, and neck pillows — because the experience of care matters as much as the result. Ready to restore your smile? Schedule your appointment today.
A temporary crown typically lasts two to three weeks while your permanent dental crown is being custom-made at a dental lab. During this time, it’s important to avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge the temporary restoration. The temporary crown protects your prepared tooth and maintains proper spacing for your permanent restoration. Once your custom crown arrives, you’ll return for a second appointment to have it cemented in place for long-term durability and function.
A dental implant can support a permanent dental crown and is often preferred over a dental bridge for replacing a single missing tooth. Unlike a bridge, which requires modifying adjacent healthy teeth, an implant functions as an independent tooth replacement with a crown attached to the implant post. Both options effectively restore function and appearance, but implants preserve surrounding teeth and prevent bone loss. An experienced dentist can evaluate your specific situation and recommend whether an implant-supported crown or dental bridge best meets your oral health needs.
The dental crown procedure typically requires two appointments. During your first visit, your dentist prepares the damaged tooth by removing some enamel and taking digital scans to create your custom tooth-shaped cap. A temporary restoration protects the tooth while your permanent crown is crafted at the lab. At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed and your permanent restoration is checked for proper fit and color before being cemented into place. Minor adjustments may be needed afterward to ensure comfortable function and proper bite alignment.
Several crown options can restore a cracked tooth, including porcelain, metal ceramic crowns, fused to metal crowns, gold crowns, and zirconia crowns. Porcelain and zirconia crowns offer excellent aesthetics for front teeth, while gold crowns and stainless steel crowns provide superior durability for back molars. Porcelain-fused-to-metal options combine strength with natural appearance. Your dentist will recommend the best material based on the tooth’s location, the extent of damage, your budget, and aesthetic preferences. All options can effectively protect and restore function to your damaged tooth.
Crown longevity varies by material. Metal ceramic crowns and fused to metal crowns typically last 15 to 20 years with proper care, while gold crowns and full metal options can last 20 to 30 years due to their exceptional durability. Zirconia crowns offer similar longevity to metal options while providing superior aesthetics. Stainless steel crowns are usually temporary solutions, often used for children’s teeth. Porcelain crowns generally last 10 to 15 years but may chip more easily than metal alternatives. Regular dental visits and avoiding hard foods help maximize the lifespan of any crown type.
At Dental Group of Chicago, dental crown costs start at $700 with Delta Dental PPO insurance or range up to $1,600 for uninsured patients, depending on the complexity and materials used. For patients with PPO insurance, you typically pay 50% of the contracted rate while your insurance covers the remainder. Factors affecting price include your insurance coverage, tooth location, materials selected, and any additional procedures needed (like root canals). Our office works with all major PPO insurance plans including Delta Dental, MetLife, Cigna, and BlueCross BlueShield to maximize your benefits. Our insurance and financing team helps determine your exact coverage and offers flexible payment plans including Cherry financing to make treatment affordable.
Dental crowns are recommended when: a tooth has extensive decay that’s too large for a filling, after root canal treatment to protect the weakened tooth, to restore a cracked or fractured tooth, to cover severely discolored or misshapen teeth, or to anchor a dental bridge. Crowns provide structural support that fillings cannot offer for heavily damaged teeth. Alternative treatments like dental implants replace missing teeth entirely, while veneers address minor cosmetic issues. Your dentist will evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment for optimal long-term results.
Most dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of crown costs when medically necessary, such as protecting a tooth after root canal treatment or restoring function to a damaged tooth. Purely cosmetic crowns may not be covered or have limited coverage. Insurance typically classifies crowns as “major” procedures with annual maximums ($1,000-$2,000 commonly). Some plans have waiting periods for major work or frequency limitations on crown replacement. We work with all major insurance providers including Delta Dental, MetLife, and BlueCross BlueShield to maximize your benefits and provide accurate cost estimates before treatment begins.
Our experienced team provides high-quality dental care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Whether you need preventive, cosmetic, or restorative treatment, we’re here to help you smile with confidence.
1556 S Michigan Ave, Suite 200
Chicago, IL 60605
Monday – Friday
Saturday
Sunday
8 AM – 8 PM
8 AM – 2 PM
Closed
