We understand that dental treatments can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to getting a dental crown. Whether you’re repairing a damaged tooth or strengthening a weak one, dental crowns can help you. Here, we will tell you what you need to know about this kind of dental treatment. So, read on to learn if this procedure can be effective for you.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a protective cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. They are custom-made to fit securely. Our dentists provide you with a personalized design that matches your natural tooth. We use crowns when a tooth has significant damage due to decay, breakage, or wear and tear. Crowns restore function, and also improve the appearance of your smile.
What Does a Dental Crown Look Like?
Let’s see what does a dental crown look like:
- It’s similar to your natural tooth and covers the visible part of your damaged tooth.
- It’s custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your other teeth.
- It’s Made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns fall into different types, and each type meets your specific needs. Let’s take a closer look at different types to see which one fits you better.
Porcelain Crowns
If you want to restore your front teeth, you can go for porcelain crowns. They mimic the enamel’s appearance and give you a natural look. They’re also stain-resistant and provide a long-lasting look.
Metal Crowns
If you care about durability, metal crowns are a perfect choice. They are suitable for molars that handle heavy chewing. Although they provide you with strong teeth, they don’t have a natural look, and dentists usually use them for back teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
You can opt for this kind of crown if you seek a balance between strength and aesthetics. PFM crowns work well for back or front teeth. Because they have a metal core with a porcelain layer, the metal can sometimes show through as a dark line near the gum line, especially if gums recede over time. So, you better not use them for front teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Go for this kind of crown if you want a highly durable crown that blends well with your other teeth. They also give you a natural look if you have thin or receding gums. As they have an all-ceramic composition, you don’t need to worry about the risk of metal visibility. Dentists use them for both front and back teeth.
Resin Crowns
These crowns are best for you in case you want a temporary and budget-friendly solution. Resin crowns are less durable but cost-effective, which makes them ideal for short-term use or for those awaiting a permanent crown.
Dental Crown Procedure
To get a dental crown, you need to go through the following steps:
- First, our dentist will examine the tooth to check if it’s suitable for a crown.
- Then, our dentist applies a local anesthetic to numb the area before any work begins.
- When you’re numb, Our dentists remove any decay or damage and reshape the tooth to create space for the crown. This may involve filing the tooth down or, in some cases, building it up if there is minimal structure remaining.
- After preparing a tooth for a crown, our dentist takes impressions of your tooth and the surrounding area to make a custom-fit crown.
- Then, we place a temporary crown over your prepared tooth to protect it while your permanent crown is being crafted.
- On your second visit, our dentist will remove the temporary crown and test if the permanent one fits you well. Any adjustments needed for comfort and alignment are made at this time.
- When the crown fits perfectly, our dentists bond it to your tooth by using strong dental cement.
- Finally, our dentists make minor adjustments to ensure your bite feels natural and comfortable.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are built to be durable. With good hygiene care, crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, and some even last longer. Their longevity depends on different factors, including the type of crown, location in the mouth, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene.
Let’s see their lifespan based on their type:
- Porcelain crowns last around 10 to 15 years.
- Metal crowns can last 15 to 20 years or more.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) crowns generally last 10 to 15 years.
- Zirconia crowns last 15 to 20 years,
- Resin crowns have a shorter lifespan, usually around 5 to 7 years.
Dental Crowns Before and After
Before a crown, you may:
- Experience pain or discomfort because of a damaged or weakened tooth.
- Difficulty chewing, especially if the tooth feels sensitive or unstable.
- Feel self-conscious about your smile, and hide your smile.
- Avoid taking photos.
After a crown, you will:
- Feel confident as the crown protects and stabilizes your tooth.
- Chew easily without any concerns about sensitivity or damage.
- Smile widely, with the crown blending seamlessly with other teeth.
Dental Crown Cost
Dental crown cost without insurance depends on different factors, like the material you choose for your crown, location, type, number of visits, and your dentist skills. Metal crowns are cheaper, while porcelain and zirconia options are expensive due to their premium quality and aesthetic appeal, especially for visible or complex cases.
Consulting with your dentist can help you find the right balance between aesthetics, durability, and cost based on your needs. Call us at (425) 827-2003 for free consultation.
Are Dental Crowns Covered by Insurance?
Many insurance plans cover it, especially when the procedure is medically necessary to restore tooth function. Coverage levels can vary; some plans cover up to 50% to 80% of the crown’s cost. You need to check with your provider to understand your specific benefits. If you have questions, our team at Kirkland Dental Excellence is here to help you estimate any out-of-pocket expenses.
Dental Cap vs. Crown
Though you may hear both terms, “dental cap” and “dental crown” are the same thing. Dentists use “crown” to describe the protective cover placed over a damaged or weakened tooth and restore its shape, strength, and function. “Cap” is a more casual term that patients commonly use, but both mean a custom-made covering that helps protect the tooth, improve its appearance, and prevent further damage.
Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?
Because our dentists use dental crown anesthesia to numb the area, you should feel little to no pain. After the procedure, some mild soreness is normal and lasts one or two days. If you can’t stand pain right after the procedure, you can use the best pain reliever after a dental crown.
Dental Crowns Near Me in Washington
If you’re looking for a dental crown in Washington, Kirkland Dental Excellence is here to help. Our skilled dentists provide you with the best services and personalized care. We can help you maintain a strong, healthy smile with the highest quality. All you need to do is to make an online appointment for free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Can You Put a Dental Bridge After a Crown?
Yes, a dental bridge can be placed after a crown.
When Should I Call a Dentist for a Dental Crown?
In case your dental crown fell out, you notice discomfort or sensitivity, or experience any pain around the crowned tooth, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Are Dental Crowns Painful?
No, the process is generally pain-free due to local anesthesia.
Can Dental Crowns Be Whitened?
No, they are made from materials that don’t respond to traditional whitening treatments.