Typically crowns are made of metal covered with a tooth-colored porcelain or plastic resin. When having a crown put on the tooth is prepared by shaping it and removing a part of the outside tooth structure. Then the crown is custom made to precisely fit the prepared tooth.  The crown fits over the tooth and is cemented into place.

Generally the crown is made by a dental laboratory, therefore it may take a few day before your dentist receive it. In many cases your dentist will prepare your tooth and put a temporary metal cap on it until your crown comes in and then you go back to the dental office to have the crown put on.

By having dental insurance crown cost in most cases is cut in half making have a crown much more affordable.