Quick Facts About Dental Crowns
- Principle Benefits: Enhanced tooth strength and aesthetics
- Materials Used: Porcelain or ceramic
- Timeline: 2-3 office visits to prepare the tooth, place the crown, and make any necessary adjustments
- Longevity: 10+ years, with proper care
- Cost: $500-2,500; may be eligible for insurance coverage
A worn or damaged tooth should never hold you back from smiling wide with confidence. Porcelain and ceramic dental crowns from skilled cosmetic dentist Dr. Donian Shen offer enhanced strength and protection for your smile. These durable and versatile restorations can address a range of functional and cosmetic dental concerns with natural-looking results.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are customized “caps” placed on damaged teeth to restore their structural integrity and function. Crowns fit over the whole tooth for full coverage. They’re often used to top dental implants or to support a tooth after a root canal, and they can also be used in implant bridges. Designed to be durable and natural-looking, dental crowns can help you restore the beauty and function of your teeth, and they may even improve your confidence in your smile.
Dental Crowns Vs. Veneers
Some dental concerns may be addressed using either dental crowns or porcelain veneers, but generally these treatments have two different goals. Porcelain dental veneers are designed to enhance the appearance of your smile. This is a cosmetic procedure that removes a thin layer of enamel on the front of the tooth, which is then covered, or capped, by the veneer to create a more appealing look.
Dental crowns are intended to restore your smile; they offer functional improvement, although there is also a cosmetic benefit. Dental crowns are used to cap damaged teeth or implant abutments. During your initial consultation, we can help you understand which approach is best for your expressed goals and anatomic needs. It may be that either option could work for you. We’re happy to provide the information you need to make the best decision for you.
What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Crowns?
At Smile By Design we utilize both ceramic and porcelain dental crowns to best suit your needs and goals. Each offers unique benefits, although most people prefer the beauty and strength of porcelain dental crowns. Generally speaking, dental crowns of either material can:
- Support a damaged or decayed tooth
- Protect a tooth from additional wear and tear
- Restore a tooth after a root canal
- Hold a damaged or cracked tooth together
- Cover a dental implant
- Improve the appearance of a tooth that is stained or misshapen
What Is the Dental Crowns Procedure Like?
Placing a dental crown typically takes between two and three appointments, as we strive to ensure your crown fits precisely, feels comfortable, and looks as natural as possible. Prior to the last appointment, you will be furnished with a temporary crown. While it’s unusual for an interim crown to come out, you should call us right away if this occurs. Be sure to floss gently while wearing the temporary crown. After each appointment, you may experience some mild sensitivity to heat, cold, and pressure; however, these effects should subside quickly. Swelling and discomfort often can be relieved by swishing with saltwater. We also encourage you to avoid chewing and eating until any numbness wears off. The final crown will be placed a few weeks after the procedure and made to fit comfortably, securely, and beautifully within the mouth.
How Much Do Porcelain Dental Crowns Cost?
The price of a dental crown will depend on the particulars of your treatment plan. The total cost can range from about $500 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the material, the complexity of the case, and what other techniques and appliances may be needed. For instance, placement of a ceramic crown to protect a cracked tooth will cost less than the placement of a dental implant capped by a porcelain dental crown. We will review the full estimated cost of your program with you so you will be well-informed. If you are interested in dental financing options, we can guide you toward a reputable lender.
Are Dental Crowns Covered by Insurance?
Many insurance plans offer coverage for dental crowns when they are deemed medically necessary, such as after a root canal. The degree of coverage available will depend on the specifics of your insurance plan. Our helpful team will be happy to help you review your coverage over the phone or in person during your appointment.
How Long Do Porcelain Dental Crowns Last?
Crowns can last anywhere from 5 years to over 15, depending on the material, restoration technique, oral maintenance, and patient health. It’s essential to have a qualified and skilled dentist perform your dental crown procedure to ensure the outcome will be durable and long-lasting, as well as beautiful. Many of our patients are still happily using their crowns from our office decades later. Brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly can help your dental crown remain strong and sturdy for many years.
Do Dental Crowns Hurt?
Dental crowns should not hurt. Indeed, they are designed to cover, support, and protect a damaged tooth, and they are often an important part of relieving tooth pain. That said, if patients require a root canal or other preparatory procedure prior to the placement of their dental crown, there may be some mild-to-moderate swelling or discomfort for a few days following treatment.
If you would like to know more about how dental crowns can restore your smile, contact our office today. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is happy to answer questions and to help you schedule a free consultation with Dr. Shen.
Medical References
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