Everyone loves a healthy, glowing smile. But what happens when one or more of your teeth get damaged or decayed? Are you condemned to a life of hiding your smile or avoiding your favorite foods? Thankfully, the answer is no! Thanks to the magic of dental science, you can reclaim your smile with the help of dental crowns.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is essentially a tooth-shaped "cap" that is placed over a damaged tooth. Its purpose is twofold: to restore the tooth's shape, size, and strength, as well as to improve its appearance. 

Do I Really Need a Crown?

Deciding whether you need a dental crown is a discussion you'll want to have with your dentist, as it largely depends on your individual oral health status. However, understanding why and when crowns are recommended can help you make an informed decision.

Dental crowns are versatile restorative dental tools. They are not just a 'one problem, one solution' kind of treatment. Instead, they serve multiple purposes, providing solutions for various dental issues.

1. Severe Tooth Decay or Damage: Dental crowns are often recommended when a tooth is significantly damaged or decayed, to the point where other treatments like fillings, onlays, or inlays aren't enough. In such cases, a dental crown can provide the additional support needed to preserve the tooth and maintain oral function.
2. After Root Canal Therapy: If you've undergone root canal therapy, your dentist may suggest a crown to safeguard the affected tooth. Following a root canal, teeth can become brittle and are more susceptible to fracture. A crown helps protect the tooth from further damage.
3. Cracked Teeth: If you suffer from a broken tooth, a crown can help hold the tooth together and prevent the crack from worsening. This restores the tooth's functionality and keeps it intact.
4. To Support a Dental Bridge: Crowns are sometimes used to support a dental bridge. They are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, serving as anchors for the bridge.
5. Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes. If a tooth is severely discolored or misshapen, a crown can improve its appearance, giving you a more uniform and pleasing smile.
6. To Cover a Dental Implant: If you've had a dental implant placed, a crown is used to cap the implant, providing a functional and aesthetic replacement for the missing tooth.

When a tooth is significantly compromised — whether due to decay, trauma, or disease — a dental crown acts like a helmet, encasing the entire visible part of the tooth. This not only restores the shape, size, and appearance of the tooth, but also strengthens it, preventing any further damage. Therefore, while the need for a crown is dependent on individual circumstances, their benefits in preserving oral health are far-reaching.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

1. Initial Consultation and Examination: Schedule a visit to your dentist to determine if a dental crown is the best solution for your damaged tooth. Your dentist will examine the tooth and assess whether it can support a crown.
2. Tooth Preparation: During your first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth by either filing it down to accommodate the crown, or filling it in if the tooth is severely damaged or broken, to ensure it is large enough to properly receive the crown.
3. Impression Taking: Your dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth, as well as the teeth above or below it, to ensure the crown will fit seamlessly into your bite.
4. Temporary Crown Placement: While waiting for the permanent crown to be crafted, your dentist will install a temporary crown.
5. Dental Lab Crown Creation: The impression is sent to a lab, and a custom crown will be created. This process typically takes about two weeks.
6. Temporary Crown Removal: Once your dental crown is ready, you'll return to the dentist's office, where the temporary crown will be carefully removed.
7. Final Crown Placement: The new, permanent crown is checked for proper fit and alignment, then cemented into place over your prepared tooth.
8. Post-Procedure Care Instructions: Your dentist will provide you with care instructions to ensure the longevity of your dental crown, including tips for maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns typically last between five and 15 years, but they can last much longer with proper care. The longevity of a dental crown depends on the amount of wear and tear the crown takes, the oral hygiene practices you follow, and your personal mouth-related habits, like grinding or clenching your teeth, eating hard foods, and chewing ice.

How Much is a Dental Crown?

The cost of a dental crown varies widely depending on where you live and on the type of crown selected (for example, porcelain crowns are typically more expensive than gold crowns.) A portion of the cost of crowns is generally covered by insurance. To be certain, check with your specific dental insurance company.

While the cost may seem steep, it's important to remember that a crown is a long-term solution that not only improves the appearance of your smile but also protects against potential future dental issues.

Reclaim Your Smile Today!

Nobody should have to go through life hiding their smile. Dental crowns offer an efficient and effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They not only restore your tooth to its original function but can give you back the confidence that comes with a healthy smile.

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, don't wait any longer. It's time to reclaim your smile! Contact our clinic today to schedule a consultation. Our team of experienced dental professionals is ready to help you restore your smile and regain your confidence. We can't wait to help you on your journey to a healthier, happier smile.