Welcome to JBDentistry’s comprehensive guide on dental crowns! Whether you’re considering a crown for the first time or are familiar with the procedure, this guide aims to provide clear, helpful information to assist you in making an informed decision. Our commitment is to ensure that every patient feels confident and well-informed about their dental health choices.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, often called a “cap,” is a custom-fitted covering placed over a tooth. Crowns restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are cemented into place and fully cover the visible portion of a tooth above the gum line.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
They may be recommended for a variety of reasons:
- Restoring a Broken or Worn Tooth: If a tooth is significantly damaged or worn down, a crown can restore its shape and functionality.
- Protecting a Weak Tooth: A crown can protect a weak tooth from breaking down or holding parts of a cracked tooth together.
- Covering/Supporting a Tooth with a Large Filling: A crown can help support a tooth with no tooth left.
- Holding a Dental Bridge in Place: Crowns are often used to anchor a bridge.
- Covering Misshapened or Severely Discolored Teeth: For cosmetic enhancements, crowns can protect unsightly teeth.
- Covering a Dental Implant: Crowns are used as a final restoration over implants.
Types of Crowns Available
At JBDentistry, we offer a variety of crown types to suit different needs and preferences:
- Porcelain or Ceramic: These crowns provide the best natural color match and are ideal for front teeth.
- Gold and Metal Alloys: These crowns are strong and can withstand biting and chewing forces, making them suitable for back teeth.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal: These crowns offer a strong and aesthetically pleasing option.
- Resin: Less expensive but more prone to wear and fracture over time.
The Procedure
Getting a dental crown typically requires two visits:
- First Visit – Exam and Preparation: We examine and prepare the tooth, which may involve X-rays and making a mold of your mouth. The tooth will be filed down to make room for the crown.
- Second Visit – Placing the Crown: The permanent crown is adjusted as needed and then cemented into place.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Ensuring the Longevity of Your Dental Crown
Proper care and maintenance of your dental crown are essential for its longevity and for maintaining overall oral health. Here’s how you can ensure your crown stays in the best condition:
Oral Hygiene
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Just like natural teeth, crowns require consistent oral hygiene. Brush twice daily and floss daily to prevent decay and gum disease, which can affect the underlying tooth and surrounding gums. Use non-abrasive brands of toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the crown.
- Rinse with an Antiseptic Mouthwash: This helps reduce bacteria that may eventually lead to gum disease and potential crown complications.
Regular Checkups
- Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Regular checkups at JBDentistry are crucial. During these visits, we can examine the condition of your crown and the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. We can also perform professional cleanings that help maintain the crown and natural teeth.
Dietary Considerations
- Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy can damage crowns, especially those made of porcelain. Be cautious and avoid using your crowned tooth to open packaging or bite hard objects.
- Minimize Sticky and Chewy Foods: These can pull at the crown and potentially dislodge it.
Protect Against Teeth Grinding
- Wear a Nightguard if You Grind Your Teeth: Teeth grinding (bruxism) can damage your crown. If you grind your teeth, especially at night, a custom-fitted nightguard can protect your crown and natural teeth from excessive wear.
Understanding the Cost
The cost of a dental crown can vary significantly based on several factors, including the material used, the procedure’s complexity, and the dental practice’s geographic location. At JBDentistry, we strive to offer competitive pricing while ensuring the highest quality of care. Here’s a general breakdown of the typical costs you can expect:
- Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: These crowns, known for their natural appearance, typically range from $800 to $1,500 per tooth.
- Gold and Metal Alloys Crowns: These durable crowns generally cost between $700 and $1,400 per tooth.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns: Offering strength and aesthetics, these crowns are priced around $800 to $1,400 per tooth.
- Resin Crowns: As a more affordable option, resin crowns can range from $600 to $1,300 per tooth.
It’s important to note that these prices are estimates and can vary based on individual cases. We recommend scheduling a consultation for a more accurate quote tailored to your needs.
Insurance Coverage
Dental crown procedures are often partially covered by dental insurance, depending on your plan and the reason for the crown. Most insurance plans cover crowns when deemed medically necessary, such as for tooth decay, damage, or other restorative purposes. Cosmetic reasons might not be covered or may have different coverage levels.
Our office works with a variety of insurance plans and providers. We are committed to helping you understand and maximize your benefits. Our credible staff will assist in processing your insurance claims and can provide detailed information regarding your coverage for dental crowns.
Payment Options and Assistance
To ensure our services are accessible, JBDentistry offers various payment options. We accept major credit cards and personal checks and offer financing options through third-party providers.
We can discuss alternative payment plans or financing options for patients without insurance or those needing additional financial assistance. Our goal is to make sure that financial considerations do not stand in the way of your dental health.
Why Choose JBDentistry for Your Dental Crown?
- Expertise and Experience: Dr. Jaline Boccuzzi and her team are highly skilled in dental crown procedures.
- Customized Care: We provide personalized treatment plans to meet individual needs.
- Advanced Technology: Our office has the latest dental technology for precise and efficient treatments.
- Comfort and Convenience: We ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience for our patients.
- Commitment to Excellence: Our goal is to provide exceptional dental care and ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Investing in a dental crown is an investment in your health and confidence. At JBDentistry, we provide transparent pricing, assist with insurance queries, and offer flexible payment options to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We encourage you to contact us with any sort of questions or to schedule a consultation to discuss your specific wants/needs and obtain a personalized estimate.
Call Us For Your Crowns!
A dental crown can be a great solution for restoring and enhancing your smile. At JBDentistry, we’re dedicated to providing quality care and a pleasant experience. If you’re considering a dental crown, we’re here to help every step of the way.