A damaged or weakened tooth doesn't have to mean tooth loss. At Park Central Dental, Dr. Mazin Nakhleh, Dr. Laura Fisher, and Dr. Shohreh Sharifi use custom dental crowns to restore the strength, function, and appearance of teeth that have been cracked, decayed, or treated with root canal therapy — so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence again.

Call 214-340-9696 or request an appointment online to find out whether a crown is the right solution for your tooth.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-fabricated cap that fits over a damaged tooth, covering it entirely above the gumline. It restores the tooth to its original shape, size, and strength while protecting it from further damage or fracture.

Crowns are made from several materials depending on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your aesthetic goals:

  • Porcelain and ceramic — the most natural-looking option, matched precisely to the color of your surrounding teeth. Ideal for front teeth or any visible area of the smile.
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) — combines the strength of a metal substructure with a porcelain exterior for a natural appearance with added durability.
  • Zirconia — an increasingly popular choice combining exceptional strength with excellent aesthetics. Well-suited for back teeth that take heavy chewing forces.
  • Metal alloys — the most durable option, requiring the least removal of natural tooth structure. Typically reserved for back molars where appearance is less of a concern.

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    Our team will recommend the most appropriate material for your specific tooth at your consultation.

    When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?

    Our dentists may recommend a crown when a tooth has sustained damage or structural compromise that a filling alone cannot adequately address. Common situations include:

  • Cracked or fractured teeth — a crown holds the tooth together and prevents the crack from propagating to the root
  • Severely decayed teeth — when decay is too extensive for a filling to restore adequately
  • After root canal therapy — a root canal-treated tooth becomes brittle and prone to fracture; a crown protects it long-term
  • Broken or worn-down teeth — teeth worn by grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion may need crowns to restore proper height and function
  • Large existing fillings — when an old filling fails or the remaining tooth structure around it is insufficient
  • Dental implants — a crown is the visible, functional component placed on top of a dental implant post
  • Dental bridges — crowns on the teeth adjacent to a gap anchor a fixed bridge in place
  • Cosmetic reshaping — when a tooth is severely misshapen, discolored, or disproportionate and veneers are not sufficient

    • The Dental Crown Procedure: Step by Step

    Most dental crowns at Park Central Dental are completed over two appointments.

    First Appointment — Preparation: The tooth is numbed with local anesthesia for your complete comfort. Our dentist removes any decay or damaged structure and reshapes the tooth to create a stable foundation for the crown. Digital impressions or X-rays are taken and sent to our dental lab, where your custom crown is fabricated to match the exact shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made.

    Two to Three Weeks Later — Placement: When your permanent crown is ready, you return for its placement. Our dentist removes the temporary crown, checks the fit and color match carefully, and bonds the permanent crown to the tooth with dental cement. Any final adjustments to your bite are made before you leave. The result is a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

    Patients with dental anxiety can request oral sedation, nitrous oxide, or IV sedation to stay comfortable throughout either appointment.

    Benefits of Dental Crowns

    • Restoration of Functionality: Dental crowns allow you to regain the ability to chew and speak properly, particularly in cases where a tooth has been severely damaged or weakened.
    • Protection: Crowns provide a protective barrier for damaged teeth, preventing further deterioration and potential tooth loss.
    • Improved Aesthetics: Crowns are customized to match the color and shape of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and attractive smile.
    • Durability: Dental crowns are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
    • Support for Other Procedures: Crowns can be used to anchor dental bridges, cover dental implants or support large fillings, enhancing their overall effectiveness.

    How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost in Dallas?

    Crown cost varies based on the material used, the location of the tooth, and whether preparatory treatment such as a root canal is needed beforehand. Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of crown cost when the crown is placed for restorative reasons.

    Our team will review your benefits before treatment begins so there are no surprises. We also offer flexible financing options to make crown treatment accessible regardless of your coverage. Contact us for a personalized cost estimate at your consultation.

    How to Care for a Dental Crown

    Crowns do not require special maintenance beyond your normal oral hygiene routine:

    • Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
    • Floss daily — pay attention to the gumline around the crown
    • Avoid biting hard objects like ice, fingernails, or hard candy
    • Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth. Grinding is one of the most common causes of premature crown failure
    • Attend routine dental exams every six months so our team can monitor the crown and catch any issues early

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long do dental crowns last?

    With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10–15 years. Many last significantly longer. The lifespan depends on the material, the location of the tooth, your oral hygiene habits, and whether you grind your teeth. Our team will monitor your crown at every routine visit.

    Can a crown fall off?

    ‍It is uncommon but possible, usually due to decay developing under the crown or the cement weakening over time. If your crown loosens or comes off, keep it safe, avoid eating on that side, and call us at 214-340-9696 promptly. In many cases the crown can be re-cemented.

    Will my crown look natural?

    ‍Yes. We match the shade of your crown to your surrounding teeth using a shade guide at your preparation appointment. Porcelain and zirconia crowns in particular are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.

    Is a crown better than extracting the tooth?

    ‍In almost every case, yes. Saving a natural tooth preserves the surrounding bone, maintains your bite, and avoids the cost and timeline of implant placement or a bridge. Our dentists will always recommend saving a tooth when it is clinically viable.

    Schedule Your Dental Crown Consultation in Dallas

    Call 214-340-9696 today to schedule with Dr. Nakhleh, Dr. Fisher, or Dr. Sharifi. You can also request an appointment online, explore all our restorative dentistry services, or meet our dental team before your visit.

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