A habit of tooth grinding, an improper bite, age, fillings and tooth decay can all be contributing factors in the wearing down, cracking or breaking of your teeth. Dental crowns cover the entire visible surface of your affected tooth and add strength, durability and tooth stability. We will make an impression of the tooth and a dental laboratory will create the crown. You will typically leave the office with a temporary crown to wear while the permanent crown is being made. This takes about two weeks. The permanent crown is then cemented onto your tooth. This procedure usually only takes two office visits. Tooth crowns typically last up to fifteen years.