Table of Contents
TL;DR
- Dental crowns are protective caps placed over infected, damaged, or weak teeth to improve shape, strength, and appearance. They provide protection to the tooth and improve function.
- There are several types of dental crowns, namely all porcelain crowns, PFM crowns, metal crowns, zirconia crowns, composite resin crowns, temporary crowns, and same-day crowns.
- Designing and cementing traditional crowns takes 1 to 3 weeks. It involves the following steps:
- Initial consultation and examination
- Tooth preparation
- Taking impression
- Crown designing in the lab
- Final adjustments
- Permanent bonding
- The crown’s lifespan can be prolonged by proper aftercare:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods for the first few hours
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly
- If you notice warning signs like pain, sensitivity, or cracks around the crown, visit your dentist immediately
- The cost of a dental crown varies based on the material used, clinic location, dentist’s experience, and insurance options. Typically, the cost ranges between $800 and $1000.
A Complete Guide to Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are common restorative procedures used in dentistry to protect teeth that are damaged or weakened. A crown for a tooth acts like a strong cap that covers the entire visible part of the tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function. This treatment not only protects teeth from further damage but also improves their appearance. Dental crowns allow patients to maintain both oral health and confidence in their smile.
Here’s a closer look at when a dental crown is needed, the types available, their benefits, the procedure, cost, and aftercare tips.
When is a Dental Crown Indicated?
According to our experts at Brooklyn Blvd Dental, there are several situations where a dental crown may be recommended, as outlined below:
- To restore a tooth with a large cavity that cannot be repaired with a filling
- To protect a cracked, broken, or severely worn tooth
- To cover a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment
- To improve the shape or color of a tooth that affects the smile’s appearance
- To provide support for a dental bridge or to cover a dental implant
Types of Dental Crowns
When it comes to choosing a crown for a tooth, there are several types available, each made from different materials. These include the following:
- All-Porcelain Crowns: All-porcelain crowns are made from ceramic and are popular for their natural look. These crowns closely resemble real teeth. They are metal-free and biofriendly, suitable for people with metal allergies. Although they are perfect for visible front teeth, they are less durable than metal crowns and can chip.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns consist of a strong metal core with an outer porcelain covering. They provide good strength and an appealing appearance. PFM crowns blend well with natural teeth. These are cost-effective, long-lasting, and suitable for both front and back teeth.
- Metal Crowns: Metal crowns are extremely strong and resistant to wear and chipping. They are made up of metals like gold or silver. These crowns are cost-effective and long-lasting. However, their metallic appearance makes them less suitable for front teeth. They are often preferred for molars, where strength and function matter more than appearance.
- Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns offer a combination of strength and aesthetics. Made from white crystalline oxide, they prevent fractures and closely match natural tooth color. They require fewer visits and suit both front and back teeth. Zirconia crowns offer excellent durability, comfort, and a natural look.
- Composite Resin Crowns: These are affordable choices, used mostly for temporary or less stressed teeth. They are made of a special resin material that matches the tooth color but lacks the durability of ceramic or metal crowns, often needing more frequent replacement.
- Temporary Crowns: A temporary crown is a protective cover placed on a prepared tooth for a short duration. It prevents damage, maintains spacing, reduces sensitivity, and supports chewing. Made from acrylic or composite resin, it offers a comfortable, functional solution for a few weeks until the permanent crown is ready for placement.
- Same-Day Crown: Same-day crowns provide quick, convenient dental restoration in a single visit. Durable ceramic materials are used for a natural, accurate fit without temporary crowns or multiple appointments.
Dental Crown Procedure Step-by-Step
To help you understand the process better, our specialists at Brooklyn Blvd Dental have shared a simple, step-by-step explanation of how a dental crown for a tooth is prepared and placed:
Examination and Diagnosis
The dental crown procedure begins with a thorough examination. Your dentist inspects the tooth using visual checks and X-rays to assess damage or decay and determine if a crown is necessary.
Tooth Preparation
Next, the tooth is shaped by removing a small portion of enamel to make space for the crown. This step is done under local anesthesia for comfort. If the tooth is damaged or decayed extensively, additional buildup may be done to support the crown.
Taking Impression
The dentist then takes an impression of the prepared tooth using putty or digital scanning. This impression creates an exact model used by the dental lab to create a custom crown that fits perfectly and matches your natural teeth.
Crown Fabrication
After impressions are sent to the lab, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth. The permanent crown is usually made in 1 to 3 weeks, customized to match your tooth’s color, shape, and size.
Placement and Cementation
At the final visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is placed. The dentist checks the fit, bite, and appearance carefully, making minor adjustments when needed. The crown is then permanently bonded to the prepared tooth.
Cost of a Dental Crown
The cost of dental crowns ranges between $800-$1,500. Porcelain and zirconia crowns may cost between $1,000 and $1,500, while metal crowns, like gold, are expensive. The cost usually depends on the material, clinic location, the dentist’s experience, the technology used, and insurance plans.
At Brooklyn Blvd Dental, we accept most of the major dental insurance providers, so you can choose from a variety of options. We offer affordable dental savings plans that allow you to save significantly on your dental care.
How Should You Care for Your Dental Crown After the Procedure?
Dental crowns can last 5 to 15 years with proper care. Here is a simple guide to help you maintain your crown effectively:
- Immediate Aftercare: After getting your crown, avoid chewing until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental biting. Eat soft foods, and avoid hard or sticky items for the first day to protect the new crown.
- Daily Home Care: Brush gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss carefully around the crown to remove plaque. Using fluoride toothpaste helps protect the tooth underneath and prevents decay.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly to check the crown’s fit and the health of surrounding teeth and gums. Professional cleanings will keep your entire mouth healthy and catch any issues early.
- Warning Signs to Watch For: Look for signs like sensitivity, pain, a loose crown, or cracks. If you notice discomfort or damage, contact your dentist to prevent further problems.
Final Words
Now that you know what a crown for a tooth actually is, it’s easy to see why it’s so useful. A crown is a durable cap that restores and protects damaged or weakened teeth, improving their shape, strength, and appearance. This restoration helps prevent further damage and ensures the tooth functions well. The use of a dental crown for a tooth is essential for maintaining oral health after decay, fracture, or root canal treatment.
At Brooklyn Blvd Dental, patients receive high-quality dental crowns made using the latest technology for lasting strength and a natural appearance. As a trusted dentist in Brooklyn Park, we take pride in delivering personalized care that ensures both lasting results and a comfortable experience for every patient.
For those considering dental crowns, schedule a consultation with Brooklyn Blvd Dental. Visit us at 5831 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Center, MN 55429, or call us at (763) 533-8669 to book your appointment today.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a dental crown from start to finish?
It typically takes 2 to 3 weeks to get a traditional dental crown, involving two appointments: one for tooth preparation and impression, and another for cementing the crown. However, same-day crowns using special technology can be completed in about two hours during a single visit.
What’s the difference between a dental crown and a veneer?
A dental crown covers the entire tooth, providing protection and strength to severely damaged teeth. A veneer, on the other hand, is a thin covering bonded only to the front surface of the tooth for cosmetic improvement. Crowns require tooth preparation, while veneers preserve the natural tooth structure.
How can you tell if a dental crown needs to be replaced?
A dental crown may need replacement if it feels loose, is cracked or chipped, causes pain or sensitivity, or if gum recession or discoloration appears around it. Changes in bite or difficulty chewing also indicate replacement is needed.
Are zirconia crowns better than porcelain for front teeth?
Zirconia crowns are stronger and more durable than porcelain, making them better for front teeth that endure biting pressure. Zirconia also resists chipping and staining well. Modern layered zirconia improves translucency, offering a balance between strength and looks.
Can a crown help with tooth pain?
Yes. A crown for tooth pain is often recommended when discomfort is caused by cracks, decay, or worn enamel. It covers and protects the tooth, preventing further irritation and restoring comfort.
