As my old crowns crack, I replace them with porcelain for anything visible, and some gold way in the back. This is at the recommendation of my dentist, who seems pretty competent and whom I'm been with since 1980.

I've had teeth that are "crown watch" for years. Then one year, the dentist will say, "OK, this one's getting pretty bad and now would be a good time..." I don't think he pushes it at all.

My dentist's 30ish son (who looks just like his dad!) also became a dentist and now practices in the same office. He gets the new patients. Dentist Sr. is 60ish and will retire in a few years, and Jr. will take over the whole business. Jr. is also very nice.