Can This Tooth Be Saved?
Learn how remaining tooth structure, cracks, support, and the final restoration affect treatment decisions.
Read articleStrength for a tooth that needs more than a filling.
A dental crown covers and protects a tooth that has been weakened by a large filling, crack, wear, decay, or root canal treatment. At Elite Dental, we plan each crown carefully for a comfortable bite, dependable function, and a shade and shape that fit naturally with your smile.
Clinical content reviewed byDr. David Cole, DDSReviewed

A crown is a custom restoration that covers the visible part of a tooth. Unlike a filling, which repairs a smaller area, a crown surrounds the tooth to help hold together and protect the structure that remains.
Crowns can restore chewing function, protect a weakened tooth from further fracture, and rebuild its natural shape. We preserve healthy tooth structure wherever possible and recommend a crown only when a more conservative repair is unlikely to provide enough support.
We explain each stage before beginning, numb the area thoroughly, and check your comfort throughout the visit. If you are anxious or need a break, tell us. You will also know the expected cost and what your insurance may cover before treatment moves forward.
Our crowns are made by a dental laboratory. The material and design depend on where the tooth is located, how much structure remains, the forces in your bite, the space available, and how visible the tooth is when you smile. Laboratory-made crowns may use zirconia, porcelain, or another material appropriate for the case.
No material is best for every tooth. We will explain the recommendation, including the balance between strength, appearance, and the needs of the underlying tooth, before treatment begins.
A filling works well when enough healthy tooth remains to support it. A crown may be more dependable when damage, decay, or an existing filling involves a larger portion of the tooth. We’ll show you what we see and explain the most conservative option that should work.
Because our crowns are made by a dental laboratory, treatment typically involves a preparation visit and a return visit for the final crown. We’ll give you a clear timeline for your case.
We choose the shade and shape to blend with the surrounding teeth and check the result before the crown is secured. The goal is a restoration that belongs in your smile rather than drawing attention to itself.
The tooth and surrounding area are numbed for treatment. You may notice pressure or vibration, but tell us if anything feels uncomfortable so we can pause and address it.
Crowns are designed for long-term service, but no restoration lasts forever. Its lifespan depends on the tooth, your bite, daily care, and habits such as grinding. We’ll show you how to protect it and check it at regular visits.
Learn how remaining tooth structure, cracks, support, and the final restoration affect treatment decisions.
Read articleCall for an evaluation. We’ll explain whether a crown or a more conservative repair is the right next step.
Located on Kirk Road in West Little Rock
Conservative composite repairs for cavities, small chips, and worn areas, carefully matched to your natural tooth.
Learn more about Tooth-colored fillingsFillings, crowns, bridges, and implant restorations — getting your teeth back to full function, comfortably and without fuss.
Learn more about Restorative dentistryModern root canals are far more comfortable than their reputation suggests. We’ll get you out of pain and save the tooth if we can.
Learn more about Root canal therapy