A cracked, root-canal-treated, or badly worn tooth often needs more than a filling — that's where a crown comes in. Smile Center Dentistry matches shade and shape to your surrounding teeth before anything is fabricated.
Material choice affects durability and cost differently depending on which tooth is involved, and we explain that honestly. A restoration is only as good as its fit, which is why we don't rush that step.
Digital impressions reduce fitting errors compared to traditional putty molds. The scan also lets you see a preview of your bite before fabrication begins.
We recommend material based on which tooth is involved and how much chewing force it takes, not just price. Material recommendations are specific to the tooth, not a blanket default across every case.
A crown that's slightly high can cause pain within days — we catch that before you leave the chair. We'd rather take five extra minutes than have you return uncomfortable.
We don't consider the case done until you're chewing comfortably on it. We'd rather remake a restoration than have you live with one that's not right.
Crowns and bridges serve different purposes depending on what's damaged or missing — here's what we offer.
Highly durable and metal-free, zirconia is a strong choice for back teeth that handle heavy chewing force. Ideal when strength is the top priority.
A glass-ceramic material known for a more translucent, natural appearance, often preferred for front teeth. We explain when this material fits better than zirconia for your case.
A metal substructure with a porcelain outer layer offers strength at a lower cost than all-ceramic options. A solid option for back teeth where appearance is less of a priority.
A bridge anchors a replacement tooth to the crowned teeth on either side of a gap. Bridges avoid surgery but do require altering the supporting teeth.
While your permanent crown is fabricated, a temporary protects the prepared tooth from sensitivity and damage. Same-day crown milling may be available depending on your case and material choice.
We evaluate whether repair or full replacement makes more sense for your specific restoration. We'll tell you honestly which option actually solves the problem.
Call +1-866-227-2801 to schedule your exam and discuss which tooth needs restoration.
A temporary crown protects the tooth while your permanent restoration is made.
You choose based on a clear explanation of durability, appearance, and cost trade-offs.
Your finished crown or bridge is bonded and checked carefully for fit and bite alignment.
"Digital impression instead of that awful putty tray from my last dentist. So much more comfortable."
"Bite felt slightly off after my crown was placed, and they adjusted it right there until it was right."
"Temporary crown while waiting for the permanent one didn't feel like a cheap afterthought — fit well the whole time."
"They walked through all three material options with actual pros and cons instead of just picking one for me."
"Crown milling was done same-visit for my case, saved me a whole second appointment."
Typically two visits over one to two weeks — prep and impression first, then final fitting once the lab completes your restoration. We'll give you a specific timeline once we know your exact case.
Zirconia suits back teeth needing strength; e.max often suits visible front teeth better. We're glad to walk through samples so you can see the differences yourself.
A bridge avoids surgery but involves the neighboring teeth; an implant doesn't touch them but requires a longer process. We'll tell you if your adjacent teeth already need crowns anyway, which can tip the decision toward a bridge.
Front teeth get materials chosen specifically for translucency and natural appearance. We compare shade in natural light, not just under the exam lamp.
We'd rather you return for a quick adjustment than live with something that doesn't feel right. Don't wait weeks hoping it'll settle on its own — call us and we'll check it.
Cost depends on material choice and whether it's a single crown or a multi-tooth bridge — we quote this after your exam. We verify insurance benefits beforehand so you know your out-of-pocket cost.
Our team serves Level Park-Oak Park and the surrounding zip codes with the same material-matched approach at every visit. New and existing patients throughout Level Park-Oak Park are welcome to book a restoration consult.
Licensed, precise, and local to Level Park-Oak Park — call and ask about your options.
Call +1-866-227-2801