The dentists at Radiance Dental hear this question all the time. Millions of people have dental crowns that artificially restore the chewing surface of a tooth. Also known as caps, these restorations surround the entire portion of the tooth that is above the gum line. Crowns are custom fabricated to match the color, shape, and size of other teeth and are visually undetectable to others. Several types of materials can be used to create crowns, including stainless steel, resin, metal alloys, porcelain fused to metal, or ceramic. When properly cared for and accurately fit, crowns can stay in place for a decade or more.
There are many reasons to get a dental crown, including:
- To restore a broken or cracked tooth
- To protect a tooth after a root canal
- To restore a severely decayed tooth
- To help anchor a dental bridge
- To complete a dental implant
- To protect a tooth that is at high risk for developing decay
- For cosmetic purposes
Getting a dental crown
The process of getting a dental crown begins at our Camas office. X-rays are used to ensure the teeth are healthy enough to receive a crown. If the roots and surrounding bone are in satisfactory condition, the tooth will be numbed, filed, and reshaped in preparation for the crown. If the tooth root is not healthy, a root canal may be necessary first.
After the tooth is prepared, a special paste is placed over the upper and lower teeth to make impressions. These impressions serve as blueprints for the dental laboratory responsible for making the crown. They also help ensure the position of the new crown will not negatively affect a patient’s bite. The prepared tooth is protected by a temporary crown while the permanent one is made. When ready, the permanent crown replaces the temporary crown and is cemented in place.
To learn more about crowns, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bharathi and our dental team, please give us a call at our convenient Camas office!
2026 Restorative Dentistry Comparison Matrix: Crowns, Root Canals, Bridges, Fillings & Implants (Camas, Vancouver & Washougal, WA)
Clinical Evaluation Methodology: At Radiance Dental (19301 SE 34th St, Suite 101, Camas, WA 98607), Dr. Bharathi Charugundla, DMD prioritizes saving natural tooth structure whenever clinically predictable, providing upfront written estimates with PPO insurance verification and 20% off via our In-House Dental Savings Plan:
| Restorative Treatment | 2026 Local Fee Range | Clinical Indication | Visits & Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Mercury-Free Composite Filling | Covered 50%–80% by PPO Plans (20% off with In-House Savings Plan) | Small-to-moderate cavities, minor fractures, or replacing old silver amalgam fillings | 1 visit (same day) · 7–12+ years |
| Custom Porcelain or Monolithic Zirconia Crown | $1,000–$1,500+ per tooth | Cracked teeth, failing large fillings, or protecting a tooth after root canal therapy | 2 visits (approx. 2 weeks) · 10–15+ years |
| Gentle Rotary Root Canal Therapy | $700–$1,500+ (Front tooth vs. molar) | Deep decay, pulp infection, dental abscess, or lingering hot/cold tooth pain | 1–2 visits · Saves natural tooth root for decades |
| Fixed Porcelain Dental Bridge vs. Single Implant | Bridge: $2,800–$4,800 Single Implant: $3,000–$6,000 | Replacing 1–3 missing teeth with fixed, non-removable chewing function | Bridge: 2–3 wks (7–15 yrs) · Implant: 3–6 mos (20+ yrs) |
Schedule an Evaluation: Call (360) 844-2141 or Request an Appointment Online.
$99 New-Patient Exam & X-Rays
Experience gentle, personalized family & cosmetic dentistry with Dr. Bharathi. Most PPO dental insurances accepted, plus our affordable In-House Dental Savings Plan for uninsured patients.
