Custom-Crafted Ames Dental Crowns

Rebuild strength and keep your natural smile

When a tooth needs more than a filling

Sometimes a tooth has been through too much. Maybe it cracked, had a large cavity, lost a big filling, or went through a root canal

An Ames dental crown restoration wraps the entire visible part of the tooth, giving it back the strength to chew and the look of a healthy, natural tooth. If you’ve been dealing with a tooth that feels fragile or looks worn down, a crown can be the long-term fix that keeps you from worrying about it every time you eat.

What to expect during your crown visit

We'll examine the tooth and take digital images to understand what's happening beneath the surface.
We'll talk you through your material options and answer any questions before we begin.
After numbing the area, we'll gently reshape the tooth so the crown has room to fit properly.
We'll take precise impressions and place a temporary crown while your final one is being crafted at the lab.
At your next visit, we'll place and adjust your custom crown until the bite feels right.

Materials chosen for how you chew and smile

We offer two trusted crown materials so we can match the restoration to your situation.

Porcelain crowns blend beautifully with surrounding teeth and are a strong choice for teeth that show when you smile. They’re designed to mimic the natural translucence of enamel, which helps them disappear into your smile.

Gold crowns are exceptionally durable and gentle on opposing teeth, which makes them a practical choice for back molars that handle heavy chewing force. Some patients choose gold for its longevity, even when it isn’t visible.

We’ll help you decide which material fits the tooth’s location and the result you’re hoping for.

Craft matters, and so does your comfort

Every crown starts with detailed impressions and careful planning, so it fits how your mouth actually moves. After we place the permanent crown, we’ll check how it feels when you bite down. If anything feels high or off, we’ll adjust until the crown feels completely natural.

Our team keeps the visit calm and communicative. We’ll explain what’s happening at each step and check in often so you feel in control. Cozy blankets, neck pillows, sunglasses, and noise-canceling headphones are available anytime you’re in the chair.

Simple ways to pay

Payment worries should be the last thing on your mind. At Ames Family Dental, we offer options for everyone to access premium care without stress.

Our office works with most insurance plans and handles the filing for you
We are in network with Delta Dental Premier and are proud to be a Delta Dental Premier Provider
In-house membership plan for uninsured patients
Flexible financing options to fit your budget
Upfront estimates so you always know what to expect
We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards
Convenient and secure online payments through the Archy Payment Portal

PAY HERE

In their own words

Six stars if I could!

“This place is amazing! Ames Family Dental is a six-star! Dr. Patten is incredibly kind, thoughtful, and holistic, and I can tell he genuinely cares about his patients. As someone who values empathy and understanding, I appreciated his attentive and compassionate approach. I can’t wait to come back!”

— Lee M.

Feels like a small-town dentist

“Excellent patient care. They listened to my concerns and were very accommodating. Dr. Patten was super personable, and I would recommend this place to anyone wanting a small-town dentist feeling and environment!”

— William T.

Friendly and gentle

“I’ve been going to Ames Family Dental for a little over two years now, and it’s been nothing but fantastic. They’re so personable, and I always look forward to my next appointment. The hygienists are very good at their job, and they clean your teeth in a way that doesn’t leave your gums or teeth hurting.”

— Nathan S.

250+ 5-star reviews on Google

FAQ

How long does an Ames dental crown last?

With good care, most crowns last 10-15 years, and many last even longer. Lifespan depends on the material we use and how consistently you care for it at home. We'll show you what to do between visits so your crown has the best shot at lasting for many years.

Will a crown look like my other teeth?

If you choose porcelain, yes. We color-match the crown to your surrounding teeth and work with the lab to capture the small details that make it blend naturally. Gold crowns are typically placed on back molars, where they aren't visible when you smile, which makes appearance less of a concern there.

Is getting a crown painful?

The procedure is done with local anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during the appointment. Some patients have mild sensitivity for a few days afterward, especially to hot or cold. That usually fades as the tooth settles. If the bite feels off or anything feels sharp, call us, and we'll get you back in quickly.

Can I eat normally with a crown?

Yes, once the anesthesia wears off and your temporary or final crown is in place. Going easy on very sticky or hard foods for the first day or two is wise, especially with a temporary. After the permanent crown is placed and adjusted, you can return to eating what you usually enjoy.

What happens if my crown comes loose or falls off?

It's uncommon, but it can happen, especially with older crowns. If it does, save the crown and call us right away. In many cases, we can re-cement the same crown if the underlying tooth is still in good shape. If that isn't an option, we'll take a look and talk through your next steps.

Do I still need to floss around a crown?

Absolutely. The crown itself can't get a cavity, but the natural tooth underneath and the gumline around it can still develop problems. Daily flossing and consistent cleanings at our office help protect the tooth under the crown and keep everything healthy long-term.

Let's Connect

Looking for modern care with a down-to-earth feel? We’d love to meet you.

REQUEST APPOINTMENT (515) 233-2898

your
neighborhood
dentist

New faces are always welcome.

2625 University Blvd
Ames, IA 50010

Get Directions