Has a dentist recommended dental crowns for one or a few of your teeth? If so, you may be wondering what exactly a dental crown is and why you may need one.

Dental crowns are essentially ‘caps’ tailored to fit over your teeth (or remaining tooth) to restore or enhance performance and appearance – improving aesthetics, function, and strength. The crowns are cemented in place, completely covering the tooth.

Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about dental crowns while also offering some helpful facts:

When Are Dental Crowns Used?

Dental crowns are recommended:

• When a tooth has too much cavity to fill.
• If teeth are cracked or breaking – Adding a crown will restructure the tooth and make it stronger.
• Following a root canal – A root canal is done when a tooth is decayed or infected to the point that reparation is not possible, after which a crown will be used to strengthen the weak tooth.
• After dental implants – The implant acts as the root, while the crown replaces the missing tooth and allows you to chew normally.
• For cosmetic reasons – Crowns are used to cover damaged, discolored, or filled teeth and create a beautiful smile.

Are there Different Kinds of Crowns?

There are several types of crowns. A crown is either temporary or permanent, and they can be fashioned from a variety of materials which is based on your needs or your preferences as the recipient. Temporary crowns are frequently made in the office of stainless steel (often used with children awaiting the arrival of permanent teeth) or acrylic materials and are placed until your permanent crown is ready.

Permanent crowns are made of:

• Metal– Often gold, platinum, or chromium, all of which are very strong and durable. Because of their color, they are often used for molars.
• Porcelain and Ceramic– Often chosen for their aesthetic appearance and their strength. They are easily matched to natural tooth color.
• Resin– The least expensive and can be matched well, but over time they show greater wear than other crowns.

How Much Do Crowns Cost?

The cost of dental crowns differs, depending on your unique needs, though the range is between $800 to $4,000. If your dental insurance doesn’t cover the cost of your crown, some practices as well as third-party financing companies offer an installment plan to pay for the needed dental work.

How Long Do Permanent Crowns Last?

Taking proper care of your crown after placement by your dentist will increase its longevity. Generally, properly placed and cared for crowns last from 10 to 15 years.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Crown?

When being fitted for a dental crown, two appointments are required. The first appointment prepares the tooth for the final fitting. Following the dental work, an impression is made, a color match is chosen, and the temporary crown is placed. At the second appointment, approximately two weeks later, your tooth is anesthetized, the temporary crown is removed, and your permanent crown is placed.

Dental Crowns Restore Your Smile

Dental crowns not only stop pain and improve the strength and functionality of your teeth, they also restore your smile!

Contact New York City Cosmetic Dentistry Center today and let us show you how a crown can improve your dental health!