What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Think of it as a protective shield, giving your tooth a fresh start while blending perfectly with your natural smile.
Crowns are used to:
- Protect weak or cracked teeth
- Restore broken or severely worn teeth
- Cover discolored or misshapen teeth
- Support teeth with large fillings
- Top the tooth after root canal therapy
- Anchor dental bridges
- Complete dental implants
There are various types of dental crowns; however, not all types of crowns are offered at our dental office:
Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns are tooth-colored restorations made entirely from porcelain, designed to mimic the natural appearance of teeth.
All-Ceramic Crowns: All-ceramic crowns are made entirely from ceramic materials, offering a metal-free, aesthetically pleasing restoration.
Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are crafted from zirconium dioxide, a strong, tooth-colored material that combines durability and aesthetics.
Same-Day Dental Crowns: Same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns, are a type of dental crown that can be fabricated and placed in a single dental visit.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns combine a metal core for strength with a porcelain outer layer for a natural look.
Metal Crowns (Gold or Alloys): Metal crowns are restorations made from gold or other dental alloys, prioritizing strength and durability. Metal crowns rarely chip, but they are a more outdated treatment.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Some of the benefits of dental crowns include:
Protection: Dental crowns can help protect weak or damaged teeth from further damage or decay.
Restoration: Dental crowns can restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth.
Durability: Dental crowns are strong and durable, and can last many years with proper care.
Versatility: Dental crowns can be used for several dental problems, from restoring a broken tooth to covering a dental implant.
Aesthetics: Dental crowns can match the color and shape of your natural teeth, creating a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing result.
If you’re wondering how dental crowns may benefit you, contact our Urbandale, IA dentist near you today at (515) 276-4981 to schedule your next appointment!
The Dental Crown Process
Consultation and Examination
To start the dental crown process, Dr. Erickson will examine your tooth with X-rays and discuss your goals, recommending the best crown material for you.
Tooth Preparation and Impressions
On the first day of your dental crown treatment, expect the following:
- Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable.
- Our Urbandale dentist reshapes your tooth by removing a small amount of enamel to fit the crown.
- If needed, a filling material strengthens the tooth’s structure.
- A digital or physical mold of your tooth ensures a perfect fit for your custom crown.
Temporary Crown
A temporary crown protects your tooth while the permanent one is crafted (usually 1 to 2 weeks) at a dental laboratory. Our dental team will provide you with tips on how to care for your temporary crown.
Permanent Crown Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to our dental office:
- At your second visit, the temporary crown is removed.
- The permanent crown is checked for fit, color, and bite, then securely cemented or bonded.
- Dr. Erickson ensures everything feels just right.
Let’s improve your oral health! Contact our dentist in Urbandale at (515) 276-4981 to discover our dental services.
How to Care for Your Dental Crown
Keep your crown in great shape! Our dentist provides the following tips for how to care for your dental crown:
- Brush Twice Daily
- Floss Daily
- Avoid Hard Foods
- Wear a Nightguard
- Visit Our Dentist Near You
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The cost of a dental crown depends on several factors, including the material you choose, your location, and the complexity of your case. Generally, you can expect to pay between $600 and $2,500 per tooth, with prices varying based on the type of crown.
Dental insurance often covers a portion of the cost for restorative crowns, and costs can vary by region or dental practice. At Hickman Family Dental, we believe in making high-quality care accessible. We offer flexible payment plans and work closely with most insurance providers to help you manage costs effectively. We also offer a convenient pay online option.
