Dental Crowns in Chapel Hill, NC
Understanding Dental Crowns
Porcelain Crowns
These all-ceramic crowns look exactly like natural teeth and are perfect for front teeth or anywhere your smile shows—no one will ever know you have a crown.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
The gold standard for many years, these crowns combine the strength of metal with the beauty of porcelain, offering excellent durability with natural appearance.
All-Metal Crowns
Made from gold or other metal alloys, these crowns are virtually indestructible and ideal for back molars where chewing forces are strongest and appearance matters less.
When You Need a Crown
Protecting Weak Teeth
Large cavities or old fillings can leave your tooth vulnerable to breaking—a crown prevents costly emergencies by strengthening the entire tooth.
Restoring Broken Teeth
Whether you cracked a tooth on ice or gradually wore it down from grinding, a crown can restore full function and prevent further damage.
Supporting Large Fillings
When more than half your tooth is filling material, the remaining tooth structure can't handle normal chewing forces without a crown's protection.
Covering Misshapen Teeth
Teeth that are unusually small, poorly shaped, or severely stained can be transformed with crowns that give you the smile you've always wanted.
The Crown Process at Peachy Smiles
Initial Consultation
Dr. Shen uses our intraoral camera and 3D imaging to show you exactly what's happening with your tooth and explain why a crown is the best solution.
Preparation
After ensuring you're completely numb and comfortable, we gently reshape your tooth to make room for the crown—this usually takes about 30 minutes.
Temporary Crown
You'll leave with a temporary crown that protects your tooth and maintains your appearance while your custom crown is being crafted.
Final Placement
About two weeks later, we'll remove the temporary crown and bond your beautiful, custom-made permanent crown in place.
Why You Shouldn't Delay Getting a Crown
Small Problems Become Big Emergencies
A tooth that needs a crown is already compromised. Every day you wait, normal chewing forces continue to stress the weakened tooth structure. What could be fixed with a straightforward crown today might require a root canal, extraction, or even an implant if the tooth breaks or becomes infected.
Pain Gets Worse, Not Better
That occasional sensitivity you're experiencing is your tooth's way of telling you something is wrong. Damaged teeth don't heal themselves—they continue to deteriorate until the nerve becomes infected, leading to severe pain that often strikes at the worst possible moments.
Treatment Becomes More Expensive
A crown that costs $1,200 today could easily become a $3,000+ root canal and crown combination, or even a $4,000+ implant if you wait too long. Emergency dental visits also cost more and happen when it's least convenient.
Your Other Teeth Suffer
When one tooth hurts, you naturally start chewing on the other side, putting extra stress on those teeth. This can lead to additional dental problems and jaw pain that could have been avoided.
The Bottom Line
Crown treatment is most successful and affordable when done proactively. If Dr. Shen has recommended a crown, it's because she can see problems that aren't causing pain yet—addressing them now saves you from emergency situations later.
The Peachy Smiles Difference
Extended Hours & Saturday Appointments
We know you’re busy. Our office is open one Saturday per month for your convenience – because your schedule matters.
Same-Day Emergency Care
Dental emergencies don't wait, and neither do we. Call us to get the care you need when you need it.
Comforting Amenities & Atmosphere
We believe going to the dentist shouldn't feel like a chore. Wireless headphones, TVs, warm blankets, and scented towels – we've thought of everything.
A Team That Genuinely Cares
From the moment you walk in until you leave with a smile, every interaction is designed around your comfort and care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I get a crown?
We typically can start treatment within a week of your consultation, and we offer flexible scheduling including evenings and Saturdays.
Can a crowned tooth still get cavities?
The crown itself can't decay, but the tooth underneath can still get cavities at the gum line if not kept clean.
What if my crown feels loose or falls off?
Call us immediately—we offer same-day emergency appointments and can usually recement or replace a crown right away.
How do I care for my crown?
Brush and floss normally, and keep up with regular dental cleanings—your crown will last longest with good oral hygiene.
Are crowns covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of crown costs when they're medically necessary, and we'll help you maximize your benefits.
Can I eat normally with a crown?
Once your permanent crown is placed, you can eat all your favorite foods without worry—crowns are designed to handle normal chewing forces.
Will my crown look natural?
Absolutely—we carefully match the color, shape, and size to your natural teeth so it blends seamlessly with your smile.
How many visits are required for a crown?
Traditional crowns require two visits about two weeks apart, though we also offer same-day crowns for certain cases.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel any pain—most patients say it's much easier than they expected.
How long do dental crowns last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, crowns typically last 10-15 years, and many last much longer.
