Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental crown cost in Glendale, AZ?
At Glisten Dental Studio, zirconia crowns run $1,100 to $1,500. Lithium disilicate (e.max) for front teeth is $1,200 to $1,600. Porcelain-fused-to-metal is $900 to $1,300. Same-day CEREC crowns are $1,200 to $1,500. Most dental PPOs cover 50-80% after your deductible. CareCredit and in-house payment plans available.
How long do dental crowns last?
Zirconia crowns typically last 15 to 25 years with proper care. Lithium disilicate (e.max) crowns 10 to 15 years. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns 10 to 15 years, though the porcelain layer can chip sooner. Longevity depends heavily on nightly wear of a custom night guard if you grind, avoiding stress habits (ice chewing, opening bottles), regular 6-month cleanings, and addressing bite issues that overload the crowned tooth.
Can I get a crown in one day?
Yes, for many cases. Glisten Dental Studio has an in-office CEREC milling unit that can design, mill, and place a zirconia crown in a single visit — about 90 to 120 minutes total. Same-day CEREC works best for posterior teeth (molars and premolars) with predictable decay patterns. For front teeth requiring maximum aesthetic match, or for complex multi-crown cases, a two-visit lab-fabricated crown produces a better result.
Does a crown hurt?
Crown placement itself is comfortable — we use local anesthesia throughout the preparation appointment. You may feel some mild sensitivity or tenderness in the days following preparation, especially to temperature, which typically resolves within a week. Over-the-counter ibuprofen handles any post-op discomfort. For patients with dental anxiety, we offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation to make the appointment effortless.
What's the difference between a crown and a veneer?
A crown covers the entire visible portion of a tooth (all sides and the chewing surface), requiring removal of 1 to 2mm of tooth structure from all surfaces. A veneer only covers the front surface, requiring removal of 0.3 to 0.7mm from the front only. Crowns are used when a tooth needs structural protection — after root canal, with large fillings, or with significant damage. Veneers are primarily cosmetic, used on teeth that are structurally sound but need appearance improvement.
Will insurance cover my dental crown?
Most dental PPO plans cover crowns as restorative work, typically at 50% after your deductible with some plans covering 60-80%. Coverage applies to your annual maximum (usually $1,500 to $2,500 per year). Delta Dental of Arizona, Cigna, Aetna, BCBS of Arizona, and UnitedHealthcare all cover standard crown codes. Waiting periods of 6-12 months may apply for newly-enrolled patients. We verify your specific benefits before starting.
What happens if my crown comes off?
This is typically not an emergency if the underlying tooth is intact. Save the crown in a clean container, avoid chewing on that side, and call us for an appointment within a few days. Often we can re-cement the existing crown for $100 to $250 if the underlying tooth structure is healthy and the crown is still in good condition. If the crown came off because of decay or fracture underneath, we'll need to fabricate a new one.
Is a zirconia crown better than porcelain-fused-to-metal?
Yes, for most modern cases. Zirconia is stronger than natural tooth enamel, metal-free (no dark gumline over time), more translucent (better aesthetics), and kinder to opposing teeth than old-school PFM. The only meaningful exception is patients with extreme bruxism where a full-gold crown might be recommended for a back molar, or patients who want maximum translucency on a front tooth where lithium disilicate (e.max) slightly exceeds zirconia aesthetically.