Dental Crowns in Burlington
A dental crown is a custom-made cover that fits over a tooth to restore its shape, strength and appearance. At Nabeta Dentistry, a general dentist checks whether a crown or another option suits the tooth, then explains the steps. No referral is needed. Call 905-639-6701.
Reviewed by Dr. Jared Nabeta, DDS, October 2026
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the whole visible part of a tooth above the gum line. It is cemented in place and is not removed for cleaning.
Crowns can be made from different materials, including:
- all-ceramic or porcelain
- zirconia
- porcelain fused to metal
- gold or other metal alloys
Your dentist explains which materials may suit the tooth, based on where it is in your mouth, your bite and how the crown needs to look.
When might a tooth need a crown?
A crown may be suggested when a tooth is too damaged or weakened for a filling alone. Common reasons include:
- restoring a broken tooth or a tooth that is badly worn down
- covering and supporting a tooth with a large filling when there is not much tooth left
- protecting a weak or cracked tooth from breaking further
- covering a tooth after root canal treatment, when advised
- holding a dental bridge in place
- covering a dental implant
- changing the shape or colour of a misshapen or discoloured tooth
Not every damaged tooth needs a crown. Your dentist explains the options for your tooth.
What happens at each visit?
A crown usually takes two visits: one to prepare the tooth and one to fit the final crown. A temporary crown protects the tooth in between.
- Consultation and planning: we examine the tooth, which may include X-rays, to check whether a crown is suitable.
- Tooth preparation: after the area is numbed with local anesthetic, the tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown. If more tooth structure is needed, a filling material may be used to build it up.
- Digital scan: a digital scan of the tooth is taken so the crown can be made to fit it.
- Temporary crown: a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the final crown is made.
- Fitting: the temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is checked and adjusted for fit, bite and appearance.
- Cementing: when the fit is confirmed, the crown is cemented onto the tooth.
How long does it take?
From preparation to fitting usually takes a couple of weeks, while the crown is being made. Each visit commonly takes about an hour, depending on the tooth.
More time may be needed if the tooth needs other treatment first, such as a root canal or a build-up.
What are the risks and alternatives?
Every treatment has risks. After a crown, a tooth can be sensitive for a while, a temporary crown can come loose, and some teeth later need root canal treatment.
Over time, a crown can chip, loosen or need to be replaced, and decay can develop where the crown meets the tooth.
Alternatives may include:
- a large filling
- an onlay, which covers only part of the tooth
- removing the tooth, with or without replacing it
- no treatment
Your dentist reviews the risks and alternatives with you, including no treatment, so you can make an informed decision.
How do I care for a crown?
Care for a crown the same way as your natural teeth: brush twice a day, clean between your teeth once a day and keep your regular dental visits.
- avoid chewing ice, pens or other hard objects
- tell us if the crown feels loose, high or sharp, or if the tooth is sore
- tell us if you clench or grind your teeth, as this puts extra load on crowns
How long a crown lasts varies from person to person.
What does a crown cost?
You receive a written estimate before treatment begins.
Do I need a referral?
No. You do not need a referral for a crown consultation. Crowns at Nabeta Dentistry are provided by general dentists. Call 905-639-6701 to book.
Where do our patients come from?
Patients come to us from Oakville, Waterdown, Hamilton and Milton.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I need a crown or a filling?
It depends on how much healthy tooth is left. A filling may be enough for smaller areas of damage, while a crown may be suggested when a tooth is badly broken, worn or weakened. Your dentist examines the tooth and explains the options.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed with local anesthetic before it is prepared. Some sensitivity or gum tenderness for a few days afterward is common, and your dentist explains how to manage it.
What happens if my temporary crown comes off?
Call us to arrange a visit to recement it. Keep the temporary crown, avoid chewing on that side and keep the area clean until you are seen.
Will my crown match my other teeth?
Tooth-coloured crowns are shaded to blend with the teeth next to them, and the shade is chosen with you before the crown is made. Results vary from person to person.
How long does a dental crown last?
It varies. How long a crown lasts depends on the material, your bite, habits such as grinding, and how well the tooth and gums are cared for. Your dentist checks crowns at your regular visits.
Do I need a referral for a crown?
No. Call 905-639-6701 to book a consultation with one of our general dentists.