What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown acts like a custom-fitted cap for a tooth. It covers the natural structure to restore shape, size, and strength after significant damage occurs. You might need one if you have a large cavity, a fractured tooth, or a failing filling.
It protects what remains. While a filling fills a small hole, a crown wraps around the whole tooth so that the remaining enamel does not crack under pressure.
Common Types of Dental Crowns
Choosing the right material depends on where the tooth is located and your budget. Dentists usually select materials based on how much force you apply when chewing.
Porcelain and Ceramic Crowns
A porcelain crown is a popular choice for front teeth because it mimics natural enamel. These restorations blend into your smile without looking like artificial additions. Because they are translucent, they reflect light in a way that looks very realistic.
Some patients prefer zirconia crowns. Zirconia is incredibly strong. It works well for back molars where biting forces are highest, although it may not look quite as natural as pure porcelain.
Metal and Gold Crowns
Gold or metal alloys offer extreme durability. These materials rarely chip under heavy pressure. While they do not match the color of your teeth, they last a long time. Many patients choose them for the very back molars where aesthetics matter less than longevity.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
This type combines a metal base with a porcelain exterior. It offers strength and decent aesthetics. However, the metal edge can sometimes show as a dark line at the gumline over several years.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?
Prices vary based on your geographic location and the material used. You should expect to pay between $800 and $2,500 per tooth in the United States.
Costs break down into specific parts. The initial exam and X-rays are one part of the bill. The actual fabrication of the custom crown is another. If you need a core buildup to support the cap, that adds an extra fee.
Insurance coverage differs by plan. Most PPO plans cover 50% of the cost for restorative work. Always ask your office for a pre-treatment estimate so you can plan your finances accordingly.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a crown usually requires two separate appointments.
Step 1: Preparation
First, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the enamel. This creates space for the crown to sit comfortably without feeling too bulky. We then take an impression of your mouth. Modern offices often use digital scanners instead of messy putty, which makes the process much faster.
A temporary crown is placed. You will wear this while the lab builds your permanent tooth.
Step 2: Final Placement
Once the laboratory sends the custom crown back, you return for the final fit. The dentist checks your bite to ensure it feels natural. If everything aligns perfectly, we cement the crown in place.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
You might wonder how long do crowns last once they are installed. Most modern restorations stay functional for 5 to 15 years.
Maintenance is vital. If you brush twice daily and visit your dentist every six months, you can extend that lifespan significantly. Avoid chewing on hard candies or ice, as these habits can crack even the strongest porcelain. If a crown fails, it is often due to new decay forming underneath the margin rather than the material itself.
Frequently asked questions
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
Most patients feel minimal discomfort during the procedure because local anesthesia numbs the area. You might experience some mild sensitivity to temperature for a few days afterward.
Can I eat normally with a new crown?
You should wait until the temporary crown is removed before eating very hard or sticky foods. Once the permanent crown is cemented, you can resume a normal diet.
What is the difference between a filling and a crown?
A filling only repairs a small hole in the tooth structure. A crown covers the entire visible surface to provide structural support for heavily damaged teeth.
How do I care for my dental crown?
Treat it like a natural tooth by brushing and flossing daily. Regular professional cleanings help prevent gum disease around the edges of the restoration.
Have a question? Call (740) 527-0700 or request an appointment.