When is a Dental Crown Needed?
Dental crowns may be recommended for many reasons to help protect and restore a damaged tooth’s function and appearance, including:
- A large cavity
- Missing tooth requiring a bridge
- Missing tooth replaced with a dental implant
- Damaged or worn down tooth
- Root canal treatment
- Cover a discolored or misshaped tooth
The experienced dentists at Signature Smiles will provide a thorough examination and evaluation to determine if a dental crown or alternative treatment will best suit your needs.
How Does the Dental Crown Procedure Work?
Dental crown placement differs depending on the treatment to replace a missing tooth or repair a damaged tooth. In most cases, dental caps are used to repair a tooth with cavities that are too extensive to simply be corrected by a dental filling. Excessively large fillings risk tooth fracture. Dental covering preparation requires the removal of the outer layer of the tooth and all of the decay within it. In situations where the tooth is highly affected by cavities, a buildup may be required to give the dental crown support. In the case of a necessary root canal, a dental post may be required.
After our dentist concludes that a dental crown is necessary, a dental impression must be created in order to provide a model for designing the crown. A temporary crown will then be placed on the damaged tooth while the final dental cap is being created. Once ready, the temporary crown is removed and the final crown is then cemented in place.
At Signature Smiles, a dental impression is taken with our digital scanner. Compared to the traditional tooth impression method that involved a putty-like substance, the current digital process we utilize is a much more pleasant experience and also generates instant results rather than waiting several days for the impression to be completed. Our dental crowns are custom-made to match and look as natural as the rest of your teeth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can potentially last for more than a decade with proper care and lifestyle habits. Similar to natural teeth, dental crowns should be brushed and flossed daily and professionally cleaned and examined at least twice per year to help prevent bacteria build-up and periodontal disease. Additionally, refraining from smoking, vaping, and using other tobacco products, using a mouthguard during contact sports, and wearing a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth during sleep can all be helpful in prolonging the lifespan of dental crowns.
WHAT DO DENTAL CROWNS LOOK LIKE?
Dental crowns are color-matched uniquely for each patient and designed to
replicate the shape and curvature of the patient’s natural teeth. Our high-quality
dental crowns fit snugly over the affected tooth (after some degree of tooth
preparation), with the goal of seamlessly blending in with the surrounding teeth
for a natural-looking smile aesthetic.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The cost of a dental crown varies based on several factors, including the type of material used, the location of the tooth, and other necessary treatments to restore the affected tooth or surrounding teeth, such as deep cleanings or a root canal. During your visit, a detailed price estimate will be provided for your recommended treatment plan, so you have a well-defined outline of all costs. It is important to note that most dental insurance plans may offer at least partial coverage for medically necessary dental crowns, however, this does not apply for dental crowns applied purely for cosmetic enhancement. Our friendly and knowledgeable team can help review your insurance information to ensure you receive the maximum possible benefit.
