Dental Crowns in Missoula, MT — Rick Hoaglin, DMD

A dental crown — sometimes called a cap — is one of the most versatile and effective restorative dental treatments available. Placed over a damaged, weakened, or severely decayed tooth, a crown restores its full shape, size, strength, and appearance, allowing you to bite and chew with confidence while protecting the remaining tooth structure from further damage. At Rick Hoaglin, DMD in Missoula, Montana, we use high-quality crown materials selected for their durability, natural appearance, and long-term performance — ensuring your restored tooth blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

Dr. Hoaglin has been placing dental crowns in the Missoula area since 2001, and his commitment to continuing education ensures that our patients always benefit from the most current crown techniques and materials. Whether your crown is being placed for restorative purposes or as part of a larger treatment — such as supporting a dental bridge or capping a dental implant — you can expect the same careful, attentive care that defines every procedure at our practice.

Schedule an Appointment — Call (406) 728-0200 | rickhoaglin.com

When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?

Dr. Hoaglin may recommend a dental crown in several situations:

  • A tooth with a very large filling that has compromised most of the natural tooth structure
  • A cracked or fractured tooth that is at risk of splitting further
  • A tooth that has been severely worn down from grinding or acid erosion
  • A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment and needs protection
  • A severely decayed tooth where a filling alone is not sufficient to restore function
  • A dental implant — the crown is the visible, tooth-shaped restoration placed on top of the implant post
  • A dental bridge — crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of a gap to support the bridge

Crown Materials We Use

Porcelain & Ceramic Crowns

All-porcelain and all-ceramic crowns are the most aesthetically natural option available — they closely replicate the translucency and color of natural tooth enamel and are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. They are the material of choice for front teeth and other visible areas where appearance is paramount.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of a metal substructure with the natural appearance of porcelain. They are durable and suitable for both front and back teeth, though the metal margin can occasionally become visible near the gumline over time.

Full-Metal Crowns

Full-metal crowns — typically used for back molars — offer exceptional durability and require less tooth reduction than other crown types. While not aesthetically ideal for visible teeth, they are an excellent long-lasting option for heavily used back teeth.

Dental Crown Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do dental crowns last?

    With proper care, dental crowns typically last ten to fifteen years or longer. The lifespan of a crown depends on the material used, its location in the mouth, your bite, and your oral hygiene habits. Regular professional cleanings and examinations at our Missoula office help ensure your crowns are monitored and maintained for maximum longevity. Avoiding habits like chewing ice or grinding your teeth helps protect both crowns and natural teeth.

  • Does getting a crown hurt?

    Crown placement is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity and mild soreness after the anesthesia wears off is normal and typically resolves within a few days. Dr. Hoaglin and the team take great care to ensure patient comfort throughout every procedure, and our office is always available to address any concerns during your recovery.

  • How many appointments does a crown take?

    Traditional crown placement typically requires two appointments. At the first appointment, the tooth is prepared, an impression is taken, and a temporary crown is placed while your permanent crown is fabricated. At the second appointment — usually two to three weeks later — the permanent crown is fitted and cemented. Dr. Hoaglin reviews the fit, bite, and appearance of the crown carefully before finalizing placement.

Schedule an Appointment — Call (406) 728-0200 | rickhoaglin.com