If you have a damaged, weakened, or discolored tooth, a dental crown could be the best solution to restore its strength, function, and appearance. Dental crowns are among the most common restorative treatments, with studies showing that around 2.3 million crowns are placed each year in the United States alone.
If you’re dealing with a chipped, cracked, or severely worn-down tooth, you might have heard your dentist mention a dental crown as a solution. But what exactly is a dental crown, and how can it help restore your smile? Whether you’re new to the idea or simply want to know what to expect, this guide covers everything about dental crowns in Blossom Valley—from types and benefits to the procedure and aftercare.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. It’s designed to look and feel just like a natural tooth, making it a great option for those dealing with damaged or weakened teeth. Crowns are also used to cover dental implants or support dental bridges. It completely encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line and is designed to blend naturally with surrounding teeth.
Why Do You Need a Dental Crown?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), dental crowns are recommended for various reasons, including:
✔ To protect a weakened tooth (from decay or cracking).
✔ To restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth.
✔ To support a tooth with a large filling when not much natural tooth remains.
✔ To improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth.
✔ To protect a tooth after a root canal.
✔ To serve as a cap for a dental implant.
If your dentist has recommended a crown, it’s typically because the tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but not damaged enough for an extraction.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are available in various materials, each with its benefits and drawbacks. A systematic review published in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry found that the longevity and durability of crowns vary depending on the material used.
1. Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns
- Best for front teeth due to their natural look.
- Can be color-matched to blend with surrounding teeth.
- Average lifespan: 10-15 years with proper care.
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
- Stronger than all-ceramic crowns due to the metal core.
- Provides both durability and aesthetics.
- Average lifespan: 10-20 years.
3. Metal Crowns (Gold or Silver Alloys)
- Extremely durable and long-lasting.
- Ideal for back molars that take heavy chewing pressure.
- Average lifespan: 20+ years.
4. Zirconia Crowns
- Highly durable and tooth-colored.
- Less likely to chip compared to porcelain.
- Average lifespan: 15-20 years.
5. Resin Crowns
- The most affordable option, often used as a temporary crown.
- Less durable and prone to wear over time.
- Average lifespan: 3-5 years.
A 2022 study published in the Journal of Prosthodontics found that zirconia and gold crowns tend to last the longest, while resin-based crowns wear down faster.
Getting a dental crown typically involves multiple steps spread over two dental visits unless you opt for a same-day CEREC crown, which can be completed in a single appointment. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect during the process.
Step 1: Consultation and Examination
Before proceeding with a dental crown, your dentist will assess your tooth to determine whether a crown is necessary. This visit usually includes:
✔ Visual Examination – The dentist inspects the tooth for decay, fractures, or structural weakness.
✔ X-Rays – X-rays help assess the tooth’s root, surrounding bone, and underlying issues such as deep cavities or infections.
✔ Discussion of Treatment Options – The dentist will explain the different crown materials (porcelain, metal, zirconia, etc.) and help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
If the tooth is severely damaged or infected, a root canal treatment may be needed before placing the crown.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation (Reshaping the Tooth)
Once it’s decided that a crown is needed, the affected tooth must be reshaped to create space for the crown.
What Happens During Tooth Preparation?
✔ Numbing the Tooth – The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
✔ Removing a Thin Layer of Enamel – Using a dental drill, the dentist removes a portion of the enamel to make room for the crown.
✔ Building Up the Tooth (If Needed) – If the tooth is severely worn down or fractured, a composite material is added to rebuild its structure before shaping.
✔ Smoothing and Refining the Tooth – After shaping, the tooth’s surface is polished to ensure the crown fits snugly.
The amount of tooth reduction depends on the type of crown:
- Metal Crowns require less reshaping (about 1-1.5 mm).
- Porcelain or Zirconia Crowns need more space (about 2 mm) for proper strength and aesthetics.
This step typically takes 30-60 minutes.
Step 3: Taking Impressions
After the tooth is reshaped, the dentist takes an impression (mold) of your teeth to create a custom-fit crown.
How Are Impressions Taken?
✔ Traditional Molds – A soft putty-like material is placed in a tray and pressed onto your teeth to capture the shape.
✔ Digital Scanning – Many modern dental offices use 3D intraoral scanners to take precise digital impressions without messy molds.
Why are impressions important?
These impressions ensure that your new crown fits perfectly over your tooth and aligns with your bite. The mold is then sent to a dental lab, where your custom crown is fabricated.
Step 4: Temporary Crown Placement
Because your permanent crown takes 1-2 weeks to be made, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth in the meantime.
What to Expect with a Temporary Crown
✔ Made from acrylic or composite resin – Temporary crowns aren’t as durable as permanent ones.
✔ Held in place with temporary cement – This allows easy removal when the permanent crown is ready.
✔ Slight Sensitivity – Since temporary crowns are not as precisely fitted, you might experience mild temperature sensitivity.
Temporary Crown Care Tips
- Avoid sticky or hard foods (e.g., chewing gum, caramel, nuts).
- Brush gently around the area to prevent dislodging the crown.
- Floss carefully – Instead of pulling the floss upward, slide it out from the side.
- If the temporary crown falls off, contact your dentist immediately.
Step 5: Fabrication of the Permanent Crown
While you wear the temporary crown, a dental lab crafts your permanent crown, a process that usually takes 1-2 weeks.
How is the Crown Made?
✔ Material Selection – Based on your choice, the crown is made from porcelain, metal, zirconia, or a combination.
✔ Shaping and Coloring – The lab sculpts the crown to match your natural teeth and selects a shade that blends seamlessly.
✔ Final Adjustments – The crown is refined and polished before being sent to the dentist for placement.
If your dentist offers CEREC same-day crowns, the crown is designed and milled on-site in a single visit, eliminating the waiting time.
Step 6: Permanent Crown Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return for your final appointment, which usually takes 30-60 minutes.
How is the Permanent Crown Attached?
✔ Removing the Temporary Crown – The dentist carefully removes the temporary crown and cleans the tooth.
✔ Fitting the Permanent Crown – The crown is placed over the tooth to check the fit, color, and bite alignment.
✔ Making Adjustments – If needed, minor modifications are made to ensure a comfortable bite.
✔ Cementing the Crown – Once satisfied with the fit, the dentist bonds the crown to the tooth using strong dental cement.
✔ Final Polishing and Bite Check – The crown is polished, and the bite is tested to ensure proper occlusion (contact with other teeth).
What to Expect After Crown Placement?
✔ Mild Sensitivity – Some patients experience minor sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days.
✔ Slight Bite Adjustments – If your bite feels uneven, your dentist may need to make small refinements.
✔ Crown Feels Foreign – It may take a few days to adjust to the new crown, but it will soon feel natural.
Step 7: Post-Procedure Care & Maintenance
A well-maintained crown can last 10-20 years or more.
How to Care for Your Dental Crown
✔ Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
✔ Avoid Hard Foods – Don’t chew on ice, hard candies, or non-food items to prevent cracking.
✔ Use a Night Guard (if needed) – If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard can protect your crown.
✔ Regular Dental Checkups – Visit your dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings and checkups.
If you feel persistent pain, swelling, or the crown becomes loose, contact your dentist immediately.
Does Getting a Dental Crown Hurt?
According to the American Association of Endodontists, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain. However, mild sensitivity or discomfort for a few days is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help with post-procedure discomfort.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost in Blossom Valley?
The cost of a dental crown depends on the material used, the dentist’s expertise, and insurance coverage. Here’s a general estimate:
- Porcelain or Ceramic Crown: $800 – $2,000
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crown: $700 – $1,500
- Metal Crown (Gold or Silver Alloys): $1,000 – $2,500
- Zirconia Crown: $900 – $2,000
Does Insurance Cover Dental Crowns?
Most dental insurance plans cover 50% to 80% of the cost if the crown is medically necessary. However, cosmetic crowns may not be covered. It’s best to check with your provider.
Additionally, many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options through companies like CareCredit to make crowns more affordable.
Finding the Best Dentist for a Dental Crown in Blossom Valley
When choosing a dentist for a dental crown in Blossom Valley, consider the following:
✔ Experience with restorative dentistry (check reviews and credentials).
✔ Technology used (CEREC same-day crowns, digital impressions, etc.).
✔ Payment plans and insurance acceptance.
✔ Patient reviews and testimonials.
A report by the National Institute of Health (NIH) found that dentists using digital scanning and CEREC technology achieve more precise fits, reducing the need for adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a dental crown last?
Depending on the material, dental crowns last between 10-20 years with proper care.
2. Is a dental crown better than a filling?
If a tooth is significantly damaged, a crown provides better long-term protection than a large filling.
3. Can I whiten a dental crown?
No, dental crowns do not respond to whitening treatments. If you’re concerned about discoloration, talk to your dentist about replacement options.
4. What is the best type of crown?
For front teeth, porcelain or zirconia crowns offer the most natural look. For back teeth, metal or PFM crowns provide better durability.