Protect a vulnerable tooth
with a crown that looks like your own.

When you might need a crown

A crown — sometimes called a cap — covers the entire visible part of a tooth. Dr. Sanie may recommend one if you have a tooth that’s fractured, has a large old filling that’s starting to fail, has just had a root canal, or shows wear from years of grinding. The goal is simple: keep the tooth you have, working the way it should.

What the visit looks like

Most crowns take two visits. At the first, Dr. Sanie gently shapes the tooth, takes a digital scan, and places a temporary crown so you can eat and smile normally while a lab crafts your final restoration. At the second visit, the temporary comes off and the permanent crown is bonded into place. We check the bite, polish it, and you’re done.

The materials we use

For most patients in Culpeper, we use porcelain or all-ceramic crowns — they reflect light the way a natural tooth does and blend in so well most people can’t tell which tooth was treated. For molars under heavy pressure, we may suggest zirconia for extra strength. We’ll talk you through your options at your visit.

How long they last

With good brushing, flossing, and routine cleanings, a well-made crown commonly lasts 15 years or longer. Avoid using your teeth as tools (we’ve all done it), and let us know if you grind at night — a simple nightguard can extend the life of every restoration in your mouth.

Cost and coverage

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of a crown when it’s medically necessary. If you don’t have insurance, ask about the Virginia Dental Club — members save on crowns and other restorative care. We’ll always give you a clear estimate before any work begins.