Dental crowns or caps are restorations which help protect and preserve damaged teeth. Crowns are a popular treatment commonly used for teeth which are cracked, decayed, or can be used in combination with a dental implant. The crown is placed over the affected tooth and various materials can be used based on the location of the tooth and the patient’s needs. There are numerous conservative treatment options which can be used to restore the teeth. When it is possible, these more conservative approaches should be considered prior to opting for a crown.
Dental veneers are another popular treatment used for repairing cosmetic flaws, however, teeth which are severely decayed or damaged may not properly support a veneer. Dental bonding is another popular treatment option which is conservative and relatively inexpensive. The dentist may suggest a crown when the patient has had a root canal or in cases where the patient does not qualify for other treatment options. Crowns are commonly used to restore damaged teeth and can also be used with an implant to replace a missing tooth. They are typically created in a dental lab, but can also be made onsite at a dental office.
During the initial appointment for a crown, the dentist will prepare the tooth and obtain impression of the teeth. These impressions are then sent to the dental laboratory where the permanent crown is made. While the lab is creating the final restoration, a temporary crown will be used to protect the tooth and maintain function. Once the permanent crown is complete and ready for placement, it is secured to the tooth using a cement or adhesive bonding.
During the initial consultation, the dentist will discuss how the tooth is prepared for the crown and review the patient’s options for local anesthesia. The dentist will also discuss a timeline for treatment, aftercare instructions, and other instructions for maintenance and use of the crown.
One the dentist has placed the permanent crown, they will share additional information on how to properly care for the restoration. It is incredibly important for patients to maintain good oral hygiene, this includes brushing the teeth at least twice each day and daily flossing. Patients should also make regular visits to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. Good oral hygiene ensures that plaque is removed from the crown and helps to prevent issues such as decay or gum disease.
One major factor that contributes to the longevity of the crown is how well it fits over the underlying tooth. The precise fit can drastically vary. In order to achieve optimal fit, the dentist will grind down a small amount of the natural tooth prior to placing the crown. The dentist must have a strong attention to detail in order to achieve proper fit. Crowns which do not fit securely can accumulate bacteria which can be difficult to detect and result in tooth decay.
Similar to other types of dental treatments, various factors impact the estimated cost for a dental crown. These factors can include the patient’s oral health, geographical location, location of the crown, experience of the dentist providing treatment, and the material being used.
A single crown can range from about $1,000 to $3,500. On average, crowns lasts for 10 to 15 years, or more. While cost is certainly an important factor, patients should also consider the training and experience of the dentist providing treatment. Dentists often share customer testimonials and photographs of previous work to demonstrate their experience.
In cases where the patient does not have insurance or their policy does not cover the crown procedure, the dental office can review financing options. It is important for patient’s to maintain good oral health and preserve their teeth whenever possible.