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At the office of Joanna Tricorache, DDS, we combine modern dental science with a patient-first approach to restore teeth that have been weakened by decay, injury, or wear. Our goal is to deliver solutions that not only protect oral health but also preserve a natural, confident smile. Ceramic crowns are one of the most versatile options we offer to achieve that balance.
Teeth are remarkably strong, but they can still be damaged by cavities, cracks, large restorations, or the cumulative effects of grinding. When a tooth can no longer be reliably rebuilt with a filling alone, a crown restores form and function by covering the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline. That full coverage is critical for long-term protection.
Advances in dental ceramics have changed how crowns look and perform. Today’s all-ceramic materials provide excellent strength while closely matching the translucency, color, and surface texture of natural teeth. This means we can restore durability without sacrificing aesthetics.
Every crown we recommend starts with a careful assessment of your bite, oral health, and cosmetic goals. We tailor treatment plans so each restoration not only lasts, but integrates seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
A crown is a protective cap that replaces missing or weakened tooth structure and restores normal chewing function. Dentists turn to crowns when a tooth’s remaining structure cannot reliably support a filling, or when a restoration must withstand repeated forces over time. Crowns offer a predictable way to protect a compromised tooth from further breakdown.
Common scenarios that prompt a crown include deep decay that removes most of the natural tooth, a large fractured filling, or damage from an accident. Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment often benefit from the reinforcement a crown provides, because those teeth can become more brittle if left unprotected.
Crowns also play a role in restorative and prosthetic dentistry: they serve as the visible portion of a dental implant, and they form the anchor teeth on either side of a traditional bridge. Beyond strength, crowns can correct size, shape, or color issues when cosmetic improvements are part of the treatment objective.
To rebuild a tooth with extensive structural damage from decay or trauma
To replace or upgrade a large, failing filling
To restore the visible portion of a dental implant
To protect a tooth that supports a dental bridge
To reinforce a tooth after root canal therapy
To improve the appearance of a small, discolored, or misshapen tooth
To address alignment or bite concerns that affect one or more teeth
All-ceramic crowns are designed to look and behave more like a natural tooth than restorations that incorporate metal. Their optical properties — translucency, light reflection, and surface texture — can be matched closely to adjacent teeth, producing a lifelike result that blends in whether the restoration is on a front or back tooth.
Beyond aesthetics, modern ceramic materials are biocompatible and gentle on surrounding gum tissue. Because they don’t require a metal substructure, there’s no risk of a dark margin showing near the gumline as gums recede with age, and they are a good option for patients with sensitivities to certain metals.
Strength and longevity have improved dramatically. Newer ceramics resist staining and wear, and many formulations provide sufficient durability to withstand the demands of chewing. When crafted and fitted correctly, ceramic crowns deliver reliable function for many years.
Another practical advantage is conservation of tooth structure. Some ceramic systems allow for thinner restorations, which can mean less natural tooth removal during preparation while still achieving a secure and long-lasting fit.
Highly natural appearance that mimics tooth translucency and shine
Requires less aggressive tooth reduction in many cases
Lighter and metal-free for greater patient comfort
Kind to gums and soft tissues, reducing irritation
Stain-resistant surface preserves long-term aesthetics
Ideal for patients with metal sensitivities
No visible metal margin, even if gums shift slightly over time
Not all ceramic crowns are identical. The choice of material depends on the tooth’s location, how much biting force it will bear, and how crucial appearance is for the area being restored. Our team evaluates each case to determine which ceramic provides the ideal combination of strength and esthetics.
For example, highly esthetic ceramics are often preferred for front teeth because of their translucency and ability to mimic enamel. Stronger, more fracture-resistant ceramics are commonly selected for molars, where chewing forces are greatest. Advances in high-strength zirconia have broadened the range of all-ceramic options suitable for posterior teeth.
We consider factors such as the condition of the opposing teeth, any parafunctional habits like clenching or grinding, and whether additional treatments (such as a bite adjustment or a night guard) will be recommended to protect the crown. Our aim is to select a material that supports a predictable, long-lasting outcome.
Common materials we work with include:
Lithium disilicate porcelain — prized for a balance of strength and lifelike translucency
Leucite-reinforced pressable porcelains — excellent for highly aesthetic front-tooth restorations
Solid or monolithic zirconia — exceptionally strong and suitable for high-load areas
High-translucency zirconia — combines improved esthetics with reliable strength
Selecting the right ceramic is a collaborative decision. We explain the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed choice that aligns with your priorities for appearance and durability.
Treatment begins with a comprehensive exam and clear communication about goals. We take digital images and impressions as needed to document the tooth and surrounding tissues, and to plan the ideal shape, color, and fit of the crown. Occasionally additional procedures — such as core buildup or minor gum reshaping — are required to create a stable foundation.
On the day of preparation, the tooth is shaped to accept the crown and an impression or digital scan is taken. A temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth while the final crown is fabricated. When the new crown arrives, we check fit, bite, and appearance, making precise adjustments before permanently cementing it into place.
Aftercare focuses on maintaining oral hygiene and avoiding habits that place excessive stress on the restoration. Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor the crown and the supporting tooth, and we provide guidance on brushing, flossing, and protective measures that help preserve the restoration’s lifespan.
With careful planning and routine maintenance, ceramic crowns can perform well for many years, offering a blend of function and esthetics that supports your overall oral health.
Our team emphasizes thoughtful treatment planning and high-quality materials to achieve predictable results. We use modern tools and laboratory partners to craft crowns that fit precisely and match surrounding teeth. Clinical expertise combined with attention to detail during preparation and placement helps reduce adjustments and improves long-term success.
Comfort and clear communication are also central to our approach. We explain each step, set realistic expectations, and tailor the treatment sequence to your needs. Whether the restoration addresses a single tooth or is part of a broader restorative plan, we coordinate care so outcomes are consistent and durable.
Choosing a practice for restorative care involves both technical skill and a commitment to patient-centered service. Our team is focused on delivering restorative solutions that restore health, function, and the confidence to smile freely.
To learn more about ceramic crowns and whether they are the right solution for your smile, please contact us for more information.
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 Joanna Tricorache, DDS, 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 Joanna Tricorache, DDS, we work with patients to optimize their dental benefits and get the care they need to maintain healthy and beautiful smiles!
Ready to schedule your next dental appointment or have questions about our services?
Contacting Joanna Tricorache, DDS is easy! Our friendly staff is available to assist you with scheduling appointments, answering inquiries about treatment options, and addressing any concerns you may have. Whether you prefer to give us a call, send us an email, or fill out our convenient online contact form, we're here to help. Don't wait to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams – reach out to us today and discover the difference personalized dental care can make.