Dental Crown Treatment in Bellevue, WA
Dental crowns are one of the most effective ways to restore and protect a damaged tooth — and at Bellevue Azalea Dentistry, they’re one of our most popular treatments. Dr. Uparika Sharma provides expert dental crown care to help patients regain both the function and appearance of their smiles. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, a large cavity, or need protection after a root canal, a dental crown can be a lasting solution.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and natural look, allowing you to bite, chew, and smile with confidence. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal, or porcelain-fused-to-metal — and we’ll help you choose the best option based on your needs and lifestyle.
Dental Crown vs. Filling: What’s the Difference?
We often hear this question from Bellevue patients: “Do I need a crown or will a filling work?”
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Fillings are ideal for small to moderate cavities.
- Crowns are used when a tooth is severely decayed, cracked, or structurally compromised.
- After a root canal, a crown is almost always recommended to protect the tooth from future damage.
Dr. Sharma will carefully examine your tooth and explain your options so you can make an informed choice.
When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?
You might need a dental crown if:
- A tooth is severely decayed or fractured
- You’ve had a root canal and need added protection
- A filling isn’t strong enough to restore the tooth
- You’re replacing a missing tooth with a dental bridge or implant
- You want to improve the look of a worn-down, stained, or misshapen tooth
Types of Dental Crowns We Offer
We provide several crown materials to suit both functional and cosmetic needs:
- Zirconia Crowns – Strong and aesthetic; great for any location in the mouth
- All-Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns – Natural-looking and ideal for front teeth
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) – Strong and tooth-colored, though may show a dark edge over time
- Metal Crowns (Gold or Alloys) – Incredibly durable, especially for back molars
- Stainless Steel Crowns – Typically used for children or temporary purposes
We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each material during your consultation.
Metal-Free Crowns: A Natural, Healthier Look
If you’re sensitive to metals or just prefer a more natural appearance, metal-free crowns made from zirconia or porcelain are a fantastic choice. These crowns are strong enough for chewing and blend beautifully with your natural teeth — no dark lines or metallic glints. Many of our Bellevue patients appreciate the seamless, clean look of these modern options.
What to Expect During the Dental Crown Procedure
Getting a crown is a simple, two-visit process:
Visit 1 – Prep and Temporary Crown
- We gently reshape the tooth and take impressions
- A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth
Visit 2 – Final Crown Placement
- The temporary is removed and the permanent crown is tested for fit and color
- Once everything looks and feels right, the crown is cemented in place
Most patients say the process is smooth and pain-free, especially with local anesthesia.
Cost and Insurance for Dental Crowns in Bellevue
The cost of a dental crown depends on the material used and the complexity of the case. For example:
- Gold crowns tend to be more expensive
- Zirconia and porcelain are mid-range and popular for their natural appearance
We work with many insurance plans, and our team will help you verify your benefits before treatment. We’re also happy to provide clear pricing and flexible payment options so you can plan with confidence.
How Long Will My Crown Last?
With good oral care, dental crowns can last 10–20 years or even longer. We’ll guide you on brushing, flossing, and protecting your crown so it holds up over time. Avoiding very hard foods and keeping up with regular cleanings can also help extend its life.
Why Bellevue Patients Trust Dr. Uparika Sharma
Dr. Uparika Sharma is known for her gentle, thorough approach and her eye for detail. She’s helped countless patients in Bellevue restore their smiles with high-quality crowns that look and feel great. Patients often tell us how much they appreciate her calm demeanor and the way she walks them through every step of the process.
“I was nervous about getting a crown, but Dr. Sharma made it easy. It looks just like my real tooth — I can’t stop smiling!”
— Actual patient review
Ready to Restore Your Tooth with a Crown?
If you have a damaged tooth or are experiencing discomfort, don’t wait. A dental crown can help protect your smile and prevent more serious issues. Call Bellevue Azalea Dentistry today at 425-998-8109, or book your appointment online to meet with Dr. Sharma and explore your options.
Call today to schedule a consultation! (425) 998-8109
Call today to schedule a consultation!
(425) 998-8109
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental crowns painful?
No, dental crown treatment is not painful. However, the little uneasiness associated is worth the result. With the help of local anesthesia, the tooth is numbed so you do not feel the pain at all. Once the procedure is done, with time, the effect of anesthesia dies out, and you may feel a bit of sensitivity to the presence of a temporary crown. The pain would be minimal and won’t last long.
How much do the crown costs?
The price depends on the material of the crown and the complexity of the procedure. It is quite obvious that gold crowns are costlier than ceramic or porcelain crowns. Before finalizing the one, check with your insurance once. Some insurance companies cover only the partial cost involved for dental procedures, whereas new policy provides the entire chargeback.
How long do dental crowns last?
Well, it depends on how you treat them. On average, dental crowns easily lasts for 10-20 years. Even though they are exposed to various risks of fracture, infection, and cavities, with proper dental crown care and crown hygiene, it will last longer.
After the procedure, we give proper instructions and a to-do checklist about dental crown care to our patients. It focuses on the way of brushing near the crown, flossing, and also how hard or smooth to gargle. Our expert opinion and care guide will not lead you to any trouble.
Are Metal-Free Crowns a Good Option for Back Teeth?
Yes, metal-free crowns are a great option for premolars and molars. They provide a natural, aesthetic look without the dark line near the gum that metal-lined crowns can cause. While some crowns use metal for added strength, fully ceramic crowns offer excellent durability and appearance. Factors like comfort, cost, and function should also be considered.