If you’re looking for a dental crown, you’ll want to know the procedure you’ll encounter and the cost of dental crowns. Learn more about the procedure and why you might need a dental crown in this article.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that covers a tooth, it’s a covering that is placed over the tooth to provide a prosthetic version of a real tooth. It is usually used to restore a tooth to its original shape and size, or to improve the appearance of a tooth. A dental crown can also be used to protect a weak tooth from breaking, or to hold together parts of a cracked tooth.
Dental crowns are made from different materials, including gold, porcelain, and metal. Porcelain is the most common type of crowns. It is strong and durable, and they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Gold crowns are less common, but they are more durable than porcelain or metal crowns.
You may need a dental crown if you have a tooth that is:
- Decayed
- Broken or cracked
- Worn down
- Weak
- Misshapen
Dental Crown Procedure
The dental crown procedure is a simple, yet important, procedure that can help to restore the function and appearance of your smile.
Why do I need a dental crown?
Dental crowns are often used to restore the function and appearance of teeth that have been damaged by decay, injury, or wear and tear. Crowns can also be used to support dental bridges or to cover misshapen or discolored teeth.
How is the dental crown procedure performed?
During the dental crown procedure, your dentist will first numb your tooth and surrounding gums with local anesthesia. Next, your dentist will prepare your tooth for the crown by removing any damaged tissue and shaping the tooth. Finally, your dentist will place the custom-made dental crown over your tooth and secure it in place with cement or adhesive.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are three main types of dental crowns:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) dental crowns.
PFM crowns are made of a metal core that is covered with porcelain. They are strong and durable, and can be used for both front and back teeth. However, the metal base may show through the porcelain, making them less esthetically pleasing than other types of dental crowns.
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain dental crowns.
These dental crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain, and are therefore more esthetically pleasing than PFM crowns. However, they are not as strong as PFM crowns, and are mostly used for front teeth.
- Gold dental crowns.
Gold dental crowns are made of an alloy of gold, copper, and other metals. They are strong and durable, but also expensive. Gold crowns are usually used for back teeth where they will not be visible when you smile.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?
The cost of a dental crown varies depending on the material used and the dental practice performing the procedure. Porcelain dental crowns tend to be more expensive than metal crowns. The average cost of a porcelain dental crown is between $800 to $1,800. The average cost of a metal dental crown is $1500+.
Alternate Treatments for Tooth Decay
There are a few different ways to treat tooth decay, depending on the severity of the issue. If the decay is caught early enough, your dentist may be able to simply clean out the affected area and apply a filling. However, if the decay is more advanced, a dental crown may be necessary.
If you think you may have tooth decay, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of treatment for you.
What are the Benefits of a Dental Crown?
There are many benefits to dental crowns. They can:
- Protect a weak tooth from breaking or further damage
- Restore a tooth that is already broken
- Cover a dental implant
- Improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
- Make a tooth look longer
- Close gaps between teeth
Dental crowns are an important part of restoring your smile and maintaining your oral health. Talk to your dentist to see if a dental crown is right for you.
Dental crowns are an important part of dental care, and they can be used to treat a variety of dental problems. If you think you might need a dental crown, be sure to talk to your dentist about your options. They will be able to help you determine if a dental crown is right for you and explain the process, so that you know what to expect.
