Restore Your Smile with Dental Crowns in Portsmouth, NH
If you have a cracked, fractured, or heavily worn tooth, a dental crown can bring back its strength and shape while protecting it from further breakdown. At Seacoast Prosthodontics, dental crowns in Portsmouth, NH are placed as part of a whole-mouth restorative approach guided by Dr. Randi's formal prosthodontic training, so your crown supports your bite and long-term oral health, not just the one tooth in front of you. New patients are always welcome, and our team will walk you through your insurance benefits before any treatment is scheduled.
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a tooth, covering it completely to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns are often recommended for teeth that are cracked, fractured, worn down from grinding, or so heavily filled that not enough natural tooth structure is left to hold up on its own. They're also common after a root canal, when a tooth needs extra protection against future breaks. If damage is more limited, a smaller restoration like an inlay or onlay may be enough, and your exam will help determine which option fits your tooth.
Why It MattersBenefits of Dental Crowns for Damaged or Weakened Teeth
A well-made crown does more than patch a problem. It's built to work with the rest of your mouth as part of comprehensive restorative dentistry care.
Protects a cracked or fractured tooth from further damage or loss
Restores chewing function so eating feels normal again
Covers and strengthens a tooth after a root canal or large filling
Matches the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth for a natural look
Supports your bite so surrounding teeth don't take on extra strain
Your VisitWhat to Expect During Your Crown Procedure
Your visit starts with an exam and digital imaging so we can see the full extent of the damage, not just the surface crack. For complex cases, CT-guided diagnostics give us a clearer picture of the tooth's root and surrounding bone before we plan treatment.
Once we know what the tooth needs, we prepare it by removing any damaged or decayed structure, then take a digital impression with our digital impression system. This digital scan replaces the old-style putty impression and gives us a precise, three-dimensional model of your tooth. Depending on the case, some crowns can be designed and milled in one visit, while others are sent to a dental lab for fabrication, in which case you'll wear a temporary crown in the meantime. Either way, the goal is the same: a crown that fits your bite accurately and holds up over time.
What Happens If a Cracked or Damaged Tooth Goes Untreated
A crack that seems minor can spread deeper into the tooth over time, especially under the pressure of chewing. Left untreated, this can lead to infection, worsening pain, or a fracture that reaches below the gumline, at which point the tooth may no longer be able to hold a crown at all. In those situations, treatment options narrow to a bridge or a single tooth implant to replace the tooth entirely. Getting a cracked or damaged tooth evaluated early gives you the best chance of saving it with a crown instead of a more involved procedure later.
Contact Us with questions about your treatment.
Good To Know
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?
Crown costs vary based on the material used, the condition of the tooth, and your insurance coverage. Our team will review your benefits with you and go over costs before any treatment begins, so call our office to discuss your specific case.
Are Same-Day Crowns Available in NH?
In many cases, yes. Our digital impression system allows us to design and mill some crowns in a single visit, avoiding a temporary crown and a second appointment. Whether this option fits your case depends on the tooth's condition and the type of restoration needed.
How Do I Know If I Need a Crown for a Cracked Tooth?
Signs of a cracked tooth include pain when chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold, or a visible fracture line on the tooth's surface. A prosthodontic exam with digital imaging can confirm how deep the crack goes and whether a crown is the right fix.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With good home care and regular checkups, a well-fitted crown can serve you for many years. How long yours lasts depends on the material, your bite, and how consistently you keep up with brushing, flossing, and dental visits.
Restoring Function. Rebuilding ConfidenceDon't Let a Cracked Tooth Wait for Treatment
A damaged tooth rarely improves on its own, and catching it early usually means simpler treatment. Our team is ready to take a look, explain what we see, and walk you through your options for a crown built around your bite and your goals.
Contact Us to send us a question first.