A Beginners Guide To Dental Crowns

Even with proper dental hygiene and regular professional care, your teeth can still get damaged. This can be caused by many reasons, including tooth decay, periodontal disease, dental trauma, teeth grinding and clenching, and much more. Your teeth can fracture, chip, break, loosen, lose shape, weaken, and much more.

Fortunately, you have numerous options to repair your smiles, such as dental crowns, dental veneers, dental bonding, and dental fillings. If you have significant tooth damage that cannot be addressed by dental veneers, inlays & onlays, or bonding, your dentist will likely recommend dental crowns.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped and teeth-looking cap that is placed over a tooth. The primary function of a dental crown is to restore the tooth’s size, shape, strength, appearance, and bite function.

Getting a dental crown is typically a standard procedure that takes one or two appointments to the dental office. Same-day dental crowns are fitted in a single visit to the dental office, while a traditional crown requires two appointments.

If you’re considering a dental crown, you should begin by contacting your dentist for an exam. The dentist will inspect your teeth and mouth and determine whether you’re a good candidate for a dental crown. If you are eligible, your dentist will discuss the treatment plan and schedule you for the procedure.

Reasons for a dental crown

A crown can be used for a variety of reasons, including:

• To protect a weak or loose tooth
• To hold in place a chipped, worn-out, broken, or cracked tooth
• To cover a tooth after a filling or root canal procedure
• To support a dental bridge
• To cover a dental implant
• To enhance the look of a severely discolored or stained tooth
• To cover an uneven or misshapen tooth

Dental Crown Procedure

On the first appointment, the dentist begins by dental examining and preparing the tooth that requires the crown. The tooth’s enamel is filed down to allow for the dental crown to fit properly. Next, the dentist takes impressions and digital images of the mouth and teeth.

For same-day crowns, the dentist uses digital images of your teeth and mouth to create a crown right in their office. This takes about one to two hours, after which the crown is cemented into place.

For traditional crowns, the dentist sends the impressions and digital scans of your mouth to a dental lab. In the meantime, a temporary crown is added to cover the tooth for protection.

Once the permanent crown is ready, you’ll be called in for the fitting appointment. The dentist removes the temporary crowns and uses stronger cement to install the permanent crown.

Please note that not all dentists have the technology to create same-day crowns in their offices. If you’re considering same-day crowns, ask your dentist if it’s available and the appropriate cost. If they don’t have it, they can recommend a dental clinic with one.

Dental Crown Materials

Depending on your preferences and condition, your dental crown can be made from the following type of materials:

• Acrylic resin
• Stainless steel
• Metal alloys
• Porcelain-fused-to metal
• Zirconia
• All-ceramic or porcelain

How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?

The cost of dental crowns varies on factors such as:

• Your location
• Type of crown – permanent or temporary crowns
• Type of crown material
• The complexity of your condition. Sometimes the procedure may involve a root canal or filling the tooth before placing the crown.

In general, getting a single dental crown costs about $800 to $1500. To be sure about how much it costs, check with your specific dentist. Also, ask your dentist or insurance provider whether your insurance plan covers a crown procedure.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

With proper dental care and habits, a crown can last for about 10 to 30 years, depending on the construction material. To care for your mouth and dental crown, use these tips:

• Brush and floss daily
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid abrasive dental products
• Wear a mouth guard for bruxism or during sports
• Avoid acidic, sugary, hard, or tricky foods and drinks
• Schedule regular dental cleanings and exams
• Eat healthier and hydrate well
• Notify your dentist immediately if your crown gets damaged

Schedule an Appointment Today with our Dentist in Quincy, MA

Are you looking for a dental crown treatment? Contact Quincy Dental Associates today to book your dentist appointment.