Porcelain Crowns
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a durable, custom-made “cap” that is placed on a damaged tooth. Many of our patients have benefited from crowns, which we design using a sturdy porcelain to thoroughly protect the tooth underneath. An example of both restorative and cosmetic dentistry, porcelain crowns can improve both the aesthetic quality and overall function of the mouth – all while feeling and appearing incredibly natural. Our cosmetic dentists, Justin Roberts, DDS and Olivia Straka, DDS, are well-versed in general, restorative, and cosmetic dental solutions, making them ideal dentists to see you through the crown process.
- Porcelain Crowns Benefits
- Porcelain Crown Procedure
- Porcelain Crowns Longevity
- Porcelain Crowns Cost
- Dental Crowns & Insurance
- Dental Crowns Vs. Dental Veneers
- Dental Crown Alternatives
- Choosing a Dentist for Dental Crowns
What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Crowns?
Dental crowns can be applied to solve or improve several concerns, including:
- Severely damaged or decayed teeth
- Cracks or fractures
- Misshapen teeth
- Discoloration
Beginning at the gum line, crowns completely cover the tooth, strengthening and protecting it while restoring a natural appearance. Crowns are often incorporated into other restorative procedures, such as fillings, dental implants, and bridges. They are also usually used in root canals, which can require extra protection for the affected tooth.
What Does the Porcelain Crown Procedure Involve?
Like many effective restorative procedures, the dental crown process is completed in a few steps. First, at your initial consultation, one of our dentists will examine your mouth, making sure the teeth are in good standing for the addition of a crown. When you are deemed ready to undergo the procedure, your tooth will be prepared for the restoration, which can include performing a filling, and your mouth will likely be numbed.
A mold and scan will then be taken for the shape of the crown. You will be given a temporary crown while the permanent is being crafted. The impression is sent to a laboratory, where the crown is created to match the unique color and shape of your teeth. After a few weeks, you will return to our office to have your new crown put in. The recovery process is generally straightforward and you should experience minimal discomfort.
How Long Do Porcelain Crowns Last?
While they are typically long-lasting, porcelain crowns will need to be replaced after a certain amount of time. When cared for properly, they typically last about 10 years. Our dentists will provide you with tips for maintaining your dental crowns to help them last as long as possible.
How Much Do Porcelain Crowns Cost?
Generally, crowns cost between $1,000-$3,500. We will determine the precise cost based on the number of crowns needed, the material being used, the extent of work being done, and other factors. Because we never want financial issues to stand in the way of the treatment you deserve, we aim to facilitate payment to the best of our ability. We accept all major credit cards and work with CareCredit®, a program that helps you finance your treatment according to your budget and timeline. We are always willing to answer questions about our financial options.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Crowns?
Most insurance companies will help cover the cost of crowns that are deemed necessary for restorative dentistry purposes. The exact coverage will depend on the insurance policy and particulars of the treatment plan. If the crown is intended for purely cosmetic reasons, insurance will most likely not cover any of the costs. Our team is happy to review estimated pricing along with your insurance information to determine any out-of-pocket costs you may incur.
Dental Crowns Vs. Dental Veneers
Both dental crowns and dental veneers are custom made to look, fit, and feel as natural as your surrounding teeth for a comfortable and polished result. However, patients often ask what differentiates each treatment, as they can sometimes be confused for one another. In general:
- Dental crowns help to restore the function of teeth affected by large cavities, fractures, severe chipping, decayed teeth, and deteriorating dental work. A crown covers the entire tooth (everything except the root), which also benefits its appearance, but crowns are most commonly recommended as a restorative solution to strengthen and protect the tooth’s overall structure.
- Dental veneers are designed to encase the front and sides of the visible teeth at the front of the mouth, concealing milder cosmetic dental concerns such as chips, gaps, stains, and discoloration. Veneers can often be applied to multiple teeth to create a more uniform smile enhancement and require less removal of the natural tooth’s surface than a dental crown.
During the initial consultation with Dr. Roberts or Dr. Straka, they will be able to better understand your specific needs and the ideal solution to treat your dental concerns.
Are There Alternatives to Dental Crowns?
There are alternative solutions to dental crowns, but your eligibility will depend on the type and severity of your specific dental concern. For example, porcelain veneers, composite bonding, and tooth-colored fillings may be suitable for mild cases, whereas dental implants or dental bridges may be preferred for repairing more significantly weakened or broken teeth. After a thorough examination with Dr. Roberts or Dr. Straka, a customized treatment plan will be created based on your unique needs to help restore both form and function.
How Do I Choose a Dentist for Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are designed to last for many years, so it is important to find a skilled, qualified dentist that will be able to maximize the outcome of your treatment. To ensure you receive the highest-quality restoration and optimal result from your dental crown, it is helpful to consider the following qualifications for your dentist to make an informed decision:
- History of education, training, and specialty work (e.g., cosmetic dentistry)
- Associations and credentials
- Successful experience in dental crown treatments
- Previous patient results and dentist reviews
- Use of state-of-the-art technology and advanced techniques
The next beneficial step is to schedule a consultation to determine your rapport, comfort level, trust, and shared ideals of patient care so you can go into your treatment feeling relaxed and confident.
We invite you to schedule your consultation with Dr. Roberts or Dr. Straka today.