Dental Crowns

The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of material used and the complexity specific to each patient’s unique needs. A dental crown can cost approximately $1,500 to $2,000 per tooth. However, additional costs may apply if other treatments, such as root canal therapy or tooth extraction, are needed before the crown can be placed. It’s best to consult with our restorative dentist to get an accurate estimate of your dental crown cost based on your specific needs and circumstances.

The lifespan of dental crowns depends on several factors, such as the type of material used, the location of the crown in the mouth, the oral hygiene practices of the patient, and any habits or behaviours that may cause damage to the crown. On average, dental crowns can last between 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance.

To help ensure the longevity of dental crowns, it is important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. It is also important to avoid habits that can damage the crown, such as chewing on hard objects, using teeth as tools, or grinding or clenching the teeth.

Regular check-ups with a dentist are important to monitor the health of the crown and detect any signs of damage or wear. If a dental crown becomes chipped, cracked, or dislodged, it is important to seek prompt dental care to prevent further damage and maintain the function and appearance of the tooth. Sometimes, a damaged crown may need to be replaced with a new one.

To maintain a dental crown and keep it in good condition, it is important to follow these guidelines:

1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay extra attention to the area around the dental crown, ensuring a thorough cleaning.
2. Floss regularly: Use dental or interdental cleaners to clean between your teeth and around the dental crown. This helps remove plaque and food particles that can accumulate and cause decay or gum disease.
3. Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods: Dental crowns are strong but can still be damaged by excessive force. Avoid biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or nuts, as well as sticky foods that can dislodge or damage the crown.
4. Schedule regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist for routine and professional check-ups. They will examine your dental crown, assess its condition, and make necessary adjustments or repairs.
5. Be mindful of grinding or clenching: If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism), consider using a nightguard or splint to protect your dental crown from excessive pressure and wear.
6. Avoid using your teeth as tools: Do not use your dental crown to open packages or bite on non-food items. This can damage the crown and compromise its longevity.

By following these maintenance tips and practising good oral care, you can help ensure the longevity and durability of your dental crown. If you have any concerns or notice any changes in your crown, it is important to consult your dentist promptly.

You can generally eat and drink various foods and beverages with a dental crown. However, it is important to exercise some caution to maintain the longevity and integrity of your crown. Here are some recommendations:

1. Avoid excessively hard or sticky foods: While dental crowns are designed to be strong and durable, biting into hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies can potentially damage or dislodge the crown. Similarly, sticky foods like chewing gum or caramel can stick to the crown and increase the risk of it coming loose.
2. Cut food into smaller pieces: If you’re eating hard foods or require significant biting force, consider cutting them into smaller, more manageable pieces. This can help distribute the pressure more evenly and reduce the risk of putting excessive stress on the crown.
3. Be cautious with hot and cold beverages: Dental crowns can insulate the underlying tooth structure, making it more sensitive to temperature changes. Avoid consuming extremely hot or cold drinks, which can cause discomfort or sensitivity. It’s best to let hot beverages cool down a bit before consuming them.
4. Maintain good oral hygiene: Rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth to remove any food particles that may accumulate around the crown after eating. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the overall health of your teeth and gums and the longevity of your dental crown.

Remember, it’s always best to consult with your dentist regarding dietary recommendations or restrictions based on your circumstances. They can provide personalized guidance based on the type of crown you have and your oral health needs.

If a dental crown breaks or becomes loose, it is important to contact your closest dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment to repair or replace it. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to manage the situation:

1. Save any broken pieces: If the crown has broken, save as many pieces as possible. Your nearest cosmetic dentist may be able to use the broken pieces to repair the crown, depending on the extent of the damage.
2. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods: To prevent further damage to the crown, avoid eating hard or sticky foods, especially on the affected tooth.
3. Keep the area clean: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-alcoholic mouthwash to clean the area around the crown. Be gentle to avoid dislodging the crown or causing further damage.
4. Use dental cement: If the crown has become loose but is still attached to the tooth, you can use dental cement to reattach it until you can see your dentist temporarily. Dental cement can be purchased at most drugstores and should only be used temporarily until you can see your dentist.
5. Take pain medication: If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed on the label.

If your dental crown breaks or becomes loose, you must contact a dentist closest to you as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. They can assess the damage and recommend the appropriate treatment to repair or replace the crown.

A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the entire tooth, while a porcelain veneer is a thin layer of porcelain that only covers the tooth’s front surface.

Dentists may recommend a dental crown over a porcelain veneer if the tooth has significant damage, such as decay or a large filling, or if the tooth has undergone a root canal. A crown provides more coverage and support for the tooth, helping to prevent further damage and provide greater stability. Crowns are also recommended for teeth that are severely discoloured or misshapen, as they can completely cover the tooth and provide a more natural appearance.

On the other hand, porcelain veneers are recommended for patients with minor cosmetic issues, such as small chips, cracks, or gaps in their teeth. Veneers are less invasive than crowns, as they require less tooth structure to be removed, and they can be a good option for patients who want to improve the appearance of their teeth without undergoing a more invasive procedure.

Choosing a dental crown and a porcelain veneer will ultimately depend on each patient’s specific needs and goals. A consultation with an Amazing Smiles Cosmetic Dentist can help determine the best course of treatment.

Yes, decay can still form underneath a dental crown if the tooth structure under the crown is not properly cleaned and maintained. This can occur if the dental crown is not properly fitted or if the patient does not practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly. It is important for patients to maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings to ensure the longevity of their dental crown and to catch any potential issues early on. If decay is found under a dental crown, it may require removal of the crown, treatment of the decay, and replacement of the crown.

Alternatives to dental crowns vary depending on the specific circumstances of the tooth in question (its condition, the extent of damage, etc.). Here are some possible alternatives:

1. Veneers: These are thin shells, usually made of porcelain, that cover the front surface of a tooth. They might be an option if the damage or decay is not too extensive and is mainly limited to the front of the tooth.
2. Onlays and Inlays: These are similar to crowns, but they only cover a portion of the tooth rather than the entire tooth. Inlays fit within the cusps of the molars, while onlays cover one or more cusps.
3. Fillings: A filling may be sufficient to restore the tooth’s structure for teeth with minor to moderate decay. Fillings can be made of various materials, including composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain.
4. Dental Bonding: This procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the tooth and hardening it with a special light. This can be a good option for minor repairs.
5. Root Canal Therapy: In some cases, if the tooth’s pulp is infected or inflamed, a root canal may be necessary to preserve the natural tooth structure. This procedure can sometimes be followed by a filling or restoration rather than a crown.
6. Dental Implants: In cases where the tooth is extensively damaged, it may be necessary to remove it entirely. A dental implant can then be used to replace the tooth. This is usually a more complex and expensive procedure compared to a crown.
7. Tooth Reattachment: In cases of trauma where a piece of the tooth has broken off, it might be possible, in certain circumstances, to reattach the broken part.
8. Removable Partial Dentures: If a tooth cannot be restored, a removable partial denture can be an option to replace the missing tooth.
9. No Treatment: In certain situations, depending on the location and function of the tooth, it might be an option to leave the tooth as is, especially if it’s not causing any symptoms. However, this approach might increase the risk of further complications in the future.

It’s essential to consult a dentist to understand the best option for your situation. They can guide the most appropriate treatment plan based on the tooth’s condition and other factors.

Teeth whitening treatments generally do not have a significant effect on the colour of dental crowns. Unlike natural teeth, dental crowns are made from materials that are not susceptible to teeth-whitening agents. Therefore, if you have a dental crown, teeth whitening will not change its colour. It is advisable to consult with your dentist for alternative options if you wish to improve the appearance of your dental crown.

Yes, private health insurance can help cover some of the cost of a dental crown.

The amount of coverage varies depending on the type of insurance plan and the level of coverage chosen. It is recommended that patients check with their insurance provider to understand their specific coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses they may incur. At Amazing Smiles Dental, we can help determine insurance coverage and submit claims to ensure our patients receive the maximum benefits available to them.

Dental Crown Item Numbers (treatments may differ based on patients’ needs):

• 572 – Provisional/interim restoration – per tooth
• 611 – Full crown – polymeric material – indirect
• 613 – Full crown – ceramic – indirect
• 615 – Full crown – veneered – indirect (with metal base)
• 618 – Full crown – metallic – indirect
• 643 – Bridge pontic – indirect – per pontic
• 672 – Full crown attached to osseointegrated implant – veneered
  – indirect
• 673 – Full crown attached to osseointegrated implant – metallic
  – indirect