Missing or damaged teeth means losing the ability to eat in addition to changes in the jaw’s shape. Not only this but little does people know how it can adversely affect the sinuses and might even increase the risk of dementia. However, there is absolutely no need to fret because with dental crowns, all of this can be kept at bay.
What are dental crowns?
A dental crown is a protective cap that is specially designed to act like a real tooth. It is custom-made from materials like porcelain, metal-infused porcelain, and ceramic. Additionally, it covers the damaged parts of your tooth and serves to strengthen it. To put things in perspective, if dental crowns are installed to fill in a missing tooth, it is either done so as a component of a dental bridge or as a part of an implant.
What goes in getting a dental crown?
Typically, the entire process takes at least two visits to Dentakay. When you make the first visit, the prosthodontist takes an impression or mold of the existing tooth. The tooth is then grinded down to make space for the installation of the dental crown. If needed, they may also tend to a cavity in order to prepare the tooth for the crown. The impression taken is sent to the lab. While the permanent one gets made, the dentist covers the tooth with a temporary crown with an aim to protect it. It takes about two to three weeks for the permanent one to get ready after which you are required to visit your dentist to have it placed.
What are the most common issues associated with dental crowns?
While there is no denying that dental crown prove to be a solution for a number of dental problems, you can still land in dental issues if you do not take proper aftercare. It is imperative that once you get the treatment done, you follow a rigorous dental hygiene regime to avoid issues like a cavity underneath the dental crown or any discomfort in the surrounding area. You can also end up with a chipped or cracked crown if not cared for properly. Other than this, you might encounter an allergic reaction if the material used to make a dental crown does not suit you. In case of any such issue, make sure to seek professional advice from your dentist.
How much does a dental crown cost?
As mentioned earlier, the price of a crown greatly depends on the type of material used to make the crown.
Below is a breakdown for your clarity and understanding:
- Porcelain: This one, by far, happens to be the most natural-looking option and also the most pricier one. Porcelain dental crowns are exclusively used for the front teeth and cost between $1,000 to $2,500, with average lying at $1,300
- Zirconia: Similar to porcelain, zirconia is a ceramic and is considered much stronger in comparison to other ceramics. It is more or less same in cost as porcelain ones. Since it is stronger, it is mainly used to make crowns for molar teeth.
- Metal: When it comes to a metal crown, the price depends on the alloy used. For example, gold alloy dental crowns are more expensive than the nickel-chromium alloy crowns. Speaking of this, the average price is about $1,300.
- Porcelain fused to metal: For the most natural-looking crown yet the strongest one, porcelain-fused-to metal crowns are recommended. These can be placed anywhere inside the mouth. They cost between $800-$2,400 and come with an average price of $1,100.
The cost also depends on what your insurance policy covers coupled with the dentist’s fees and whether or not your tooth requires any additional dental treatment before starting the crown placement.
How long do dental crowns last?
Generally speaking, dental crowns can easily last ten to twenty years. Basically, the durability does not depend on the material itself only but also on how well you are practicing your oral hygiene routine. Brushing alongside flossing is important at least twice a day. Furthermore, if you have a habit of grinding your teeth during your sleep, your crowns can end up with cracks. Hence, make sure you don’t do that!
Reference website:
https://www.ijert.org/study-on-fatigue-strength-of-a-dental-crown-a-review
