With proper care, a dental crown can last 15 years or more. It’s important to brush and floss, and to see the dentist regularly to ensure the longevity of your crown.
“Dr. Rubin made my teeth look like new again! So much easier than I ever expected.”
When a tooth is broken, weak, or not aesthetically pleasing, a dental crown may be the answer.
A dental crown, also sometimes referred to as a cap, is a custom-made tooth-shaped covering that fits over a damaged, weak, or unattractive tooth.
The primary function of a dental crown is to improve the tooth’s strength and enhance its appearance.
Dental crowns can porcelain or ceramic, or a combination of these materials depending upon the location of the tooth and your personal preference.
Dental crowns may be recommended for a variety of reasons.
They may be necessary if you have a tooth that is cracked, severely decayed, or weakened from a large filling.
If your tooth cannot be restored with a filling, a crown may be the best option to protect it from further damage.
In some cases, dental crowns may be used to hold a dental bridge in place. Dental bridges are a series of linked crowns that are used to fill gaps where teeth are missing.
Crowns can also be placed over dental implants to replace missing teeth or to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.
The dentist will first remove any damaged or decayed tissue and then shape the remaining tooth structure to provide a solid base for the crown.
Later when your custom-made crown is placed on your tooth, the dentist will check the fit and bite of the crown, make any necessary adjustments, and then cement the crown into place.
One of the most common questions patients have is whether getting a dental crown hurts.
The good news is that the area around the damaged tooth is numbed during the procedure, so most people do not feel any pain.
You may experience some mild discomfort afterward, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
With proper care, you can expect your dental crown to last 15 years or more.
You will care for your crown just like you care for your other teeth, with regular brushing and flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
It’s also best to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can potentially damage the crown.
If you’re an active person who plays sports or engages in high-impact activities, it’s essential to wear a mouthguard to protect your crown and other teeth from injury.
The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on the type of material used and the location of the tooth. Dental insurance may cover some or all of the cost, so it’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see what your coverage includes. You may also be able to use your FSA or HSA funds to cover the cost with pre-tax dollars.
We participate with Delta Dental, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Altus, and will help you file claims with any other private insurance provider you may have.
We also provide a convenient payment option called CareCredit, which enables you to make monthly payments for dental work, rather than having to pay the entire fee upfront.
Watch Our Patients Talk About Their Dental Crown Experience At Practice of Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
With proper care, a dental crown can last 15 years or more. It’s important to brush and floss, and to see the dentist regularly to ensure the longevity of your crown.
You can eat normally with a dental crown, but it is a good idea to avoid hard or sticky foods. With the proper care, your dental crown can last 15 years or longer.
No, a dental crown cannot be whitened. If your crown has become discolored over time, it may need to be replaced.
Yes, dental crowns are often used to fix a broken tooth, as they provide additional support and protection to the damaged tooth. Your dentist can let you know if a crown is a good solution for you.
Yes, dental crowns can be used to improve the appearance of a discolored tooth. Your dentist can let you know if a crown is a good solution for you.