What are Dental Crowns: Procedure, Types and Costs (2024)

Dental
Aug 21, 2024

A dental crown is a common approach for repairing damaged teeth or securing dental bridges and dentures in place.

When a dentist recommends a dental crown treatment, many questions come to mind, such as: What are the dangers of dental crowns? How much does it cost? Is it the best procedure for me?

We will discuss dental crown treatment, including its drawbacks, types of dental crowns and costs. 

What is a Dental Crown?

Imagine a dental crown as a tooth-shaped cap that’s placed over your tooth. 

Dental crowns are commonly used by dentists to strengthen, repair, or protect teeth that are weak, damaged, or decayed.

A dental crown is a long-term solution; once firmly in place, it should closely resemble the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.

To achieve a precise fit, your dentist will carefully remove a small layer of enamel before bonding your new crown in position.

Dental lab technicians skillfully fabricate crowns using a range of materials, including resin, metal, and porcelain, ensuring a customized and durable restoration that meets your specific needs.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns provide many benefits for patients, making them a valuable option in restorative dentistry.

A dental crown supports teeth that have weakened structures or sustained significant damage, effectively preventing further decay and helping to preserve natural teeth for the long term. 

Crowns can enhance the appearance of chipped or stained teeth, restoring them to their original shape and color.

Additionally, dental crowns can protect teeth from erosion and wear over time, improve chewing function, and allow for better food intake.

With proper care, a dental crown can last for many years. 

Your dentist will offer tips on maintaining your crown effectively, ensuring your restoration remains in excellent condition.

Types of Dental Crowns

When it comes to dental crowns, there are various types available, and the right choice for you depends on your personal preferences and specific oral health needs. 

Some crowns are better suited for front teeth, while others are ideal for back teeth.

1. Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are crafted from a variety of metals, including gold, palladium, nickel, and chromium.

They are durable and long-lasting, but their metallic color is less aesthetically appealing. 

Metal crown are often recommended for back molars.

2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns blend durability with aesthetics, featuring a metal base topped with color-matched porcelain. 

However, over time, the porcelain may chip and reveal the metal underneath. 

Despite these drawbacks, they are versatile for restoring both front and back teeth and have a lifespan similar to metal crowns.

3. All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns

All-ceramic or porcelain crowns are known for replicating natural tooth enamel well and are a great option for people with metal allergies. 

Zirconium dioxide is a popular material due to its durability and ability to withstand significant forces.

4. All-Resin Crowns

All-resin crowns are more affordable but less durable than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, making them suitable for temporary use, lasting around three to five years.

Choosing the right dental crown involves considering both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring that your restoration meets your specific needs while enhancing your smile.

5. E-Max Dental Crown

E-max crowns are dental restorations made from a durable ceramic material known as lithium disilicate. 

They are designed to closely resemble the natural shape and color of teeth, providing a very natural feel once placed. 

However, they may not be ideal for individuals with darker teeth due to their thinness and are best suited for single tooth replacements. 

Using multiple e-max crowns, especially on back teeth, can compromise their durability.

Estimated costs for dental crowns

The cost of dental crowns is closely related to the type of material used, with prices ranging between $600 and $3000.

Metal Crowns

You'll find that the cost of gold dental crowns is approximately $800 to $2,500. 

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

The average cost of a PFM tooth crown is around $800 to $1,400.

All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns

The cost of these crowns can range from $800 to $3,000, making them some of the most expensive types available.

All-Resin Crowns

Resin crowns cost from $600 to $1,300.

E-Max Crown

E-Max crowns usually have a similar cost to porcelain and Zirconia crowns.

When getting a dental crown, it's important to carefully choose the type that fits your needs and budget.

Dental Crown Procedure

The process of getting a dental crown usually involves two appointments.

In your first visit:

  • Your dentist will carefully remove some of the natural enamel. This step creates adequate space for the new crown and ensures a secure bond. 
  • In some cases, your dentist may also use a filling material to rebuild certain areas of your tooth, establishing a strong foundation for the crown.
  • After preparing your tooth, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. 
  • These impressions are then sent to a dental lab, where a technician will craft your custom crown.
  • During this waiting period, your dentist will place a temporary crown,, to protect your prepared tooth.
  • Once the lab completes your new crown, it will be sent back to your dentist’s office. 

The procedure will continue during the second visit. The dentist:

  • The dentist will remove the temporary crown.
  • It will be checked for shape, color, and fit of your new crown to ensure it meets your needs.
  • If all looks good, the new crown will be connect to your tooth using a strong dental cement, ensuring a secure and lasting fit.

This two-step process ensures that your dental crown fits perfectly while providing functionality and aesthetic appeal.

When is a Dental Crown necessary?

There are numerous reasons to consider dental crown treatment, and your dentist may recommend this option if you encounter any of the following situations:

  • Strengthening a weak tooth.
  • Protecting and supporting a cracked tooth.
  • Restoring a worn-down or broken tooth.
  • Holding a dental bridge in place.
  • Covering a dental implant or a severely stained or discolored tooth.
  • Sheathing a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment.

Complications of a dental crown procedure

Some of the disadvantages of dental crowns are:

  • The procedure may result in increased tooth sensitivity, particularly during the first few weeks following crown placement.
  • Over time, crowns can break or fracture, especially if subjected to excessive force.
  • If crowns do not fit properly, they can trap bacteria, potentially leading to decay beneath the crown.
  • In some cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to the materials used in the crown.

It's important to note that these complications do not occur for everyone and can often be managed effectively with proper care and follow-up.

When is it necessary to contact a professional? 

Ultimately, the best way to determine if you need a dental crown is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. 

During the visit, they will ask questions and conduct a thorough examination of your oral cavity to assess your specific needs.

Feel free to contact Junction Family Dental Care, if you have any questions regarding the best options for dental crown treatment.

In summary

Dental crown treatment is a reliable and effective choice for restoring both the functionality and appearance of your smile.

This treatment is often the best and most affordable option, even with the disadvantages of dental crowns. 

When considering a dental procedure, it's natural to have concerns about various aspects, such as the different types of dental crowns available and their associated costs.

If you have any uncertainty and want to find the best option for you, we recommend scheduling an appointment at your chosen clinic.

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