What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a prosthetic tooth cap designed to restore a damaged tooth to its original size and shape. The crown is cemented onto the damaged tooth, covering the visible outer section of the tooth, restoring the natural look and feel.

While dental crowns are not recommended for everyone, they are a frequently used solution for strengthening and protecting teeth. They shield weakened or cracked teeth from further harm, boost durability, and enhance the overall appearance of your smile, blending seamlessly with natural teeth. Crowns also offer long-term support for dental repairs like large fillings or implants, making them a reliable choice for many dental issues.

Types of Dental Crowns

Porcelain Crowns

Description: Made entirely of porcelain, these crowns are designed to match the natural color of teeth, ideal for visible areas

Pros: Blends seamlessly with natural teeth
-Ideal for front teeth
-Stain-resistant

Cons: Less durable for back teeth
– Can chip or crack
– Higher cost than resin options

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Metal Crowns (Gold, Nickel)

Description: Constructed from metals like gold or nickel, known for their strength and durability

Pros: Extremely durable and long-lasting
– Won’t wear down or fracture
– Less tooth removal needed

Cons: Metallic appearance isn’t aesthetic
– Conducts temperature (sensitivity issues)
– Higher cost

Porcelain-fused-to-metal

Description: A combination of porcelain for aesthetics and a metal base for added strength

Pros: Stronger than pure porcelain
– Natural appearance for visible teeth
– Good balance of aesthetics & strength

Cons: Metal line may show at the gum
– Porcelain layer can chip
– Potential for gum irritation

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Resin Crowns

Description: Made from a composite resin material, often used as a temporary or budget-friendly solution

Pros: – Affordable and budget-friendly
– Less invasive on tooth structure
– Easy to fit

Cons: Least durable
– Can wear down or fracture
– More prone to staining over time

Cost of Dental Crowns

The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on several factors.

Type of Crown Material

Dental crown prices depend a lot on the material you choose. Porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are typically more expensive because they look natural and last longer. Metal crowns, like gold or nickel, cost more due to their durability. Resin crowns are the most affordable option, but they don’t last as long, so they’re better for temporary use.

Complexity of the Procedure

The overall cost can go up if the tooth needs extra work, such as a root canal or gum treatment, before placing the crown. If the tooth is in a tricky spot or needs more attention, the price can increase.

Additional Treatments:

Some cases require extra steps before placing the crown, like root canals or gum work, which add to the total cost. These pre-crown treatments are important to make sure the tooth is ready for the crown.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance may cover part of the cost, especially if the crown is medically necessary. It’s a good idea to check with your provider to see what’s included in your plan and if there are any limits.

Close-up of a dentist examining a patient's teeth with dental tools

Who Needs a Dental Crown?

Signs that you might need a dental crown include:

  • A previously filled tooth where there now exists more filling than tooth. The existing tooth structure becomes weakened and can no longer support the filling.
  • Extensive damage from decay or breakage.
  • Discolorations and compromised aesthetics.
  • Tooth fractures or accidents involving the teeth.
  • After root canal therapy

What to Expect with a Crown Procedure

A dental crown procedure typically requires two visits to the dental clinic. Here’s what you should expect:

  • Initial Examination and Diagnosis
    During the first visit, our dentist in Calgary will take a look at your tooth to see if a crown is the right choice. This might involve X-rays to check the health of your tooth and the surrounding bone. If there’s significant damage or decay, our dentist will go over the next steps, which might mean additional treatments to ensure your tooth is ready for a crown.
  • Preparing the Tooth
    To get your tooth ready, the dentist will remove any decay and reshape it so the crown can fit properly. This includes trimming down the tooth to make room for the new crown. If there’s not enough tooth structure, the dentist might need to build it up using a filling material to give the crown a solid base.
  • Taking Impressions
    After preparing the tooth, we’ll take an impression of it, along with the surrounding teeth, to ascertain that the crown fits perfectly. In some cases, a digital impression might be necessary for accuracy purposes.
  • Placing a Temporary Crown
    While waiting for your permanent crown, we’ll place a temporary one to protect your tooth. You might feel a bit of sensitivity to hot or cold during this time. So steer clear of sticky or hard foods since they can loosen the temporary crown.
  • Fitting and Cementing the Permanent Crown
    When your permanent crown is ready, you’ll come back for a second visit. Our dentist will remove the temporary crown and make sure the permanent one fits just right. Any adjustments needed for comfort or appearance will be made before the final step of cementing the crown in place.
  • Final Adjustments and Polishing
    Once the crown is securely in place, the dentist will make any last tweaks to ensure it’s comfortable and matches your bite. They’ll also polish it so it looks natural and blends seamlessly with your other teeth. Any small adjustments can be handled on the spot to ensure you leave with a perfect smile.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

  • Restores Tooth Strength and Function: Dental crowns reinforce a damaged or weakened tooth, allowing it to function like a natural tooth again. You’ll be able to chew, bite, and speak comfortably without worrying about further issues.
  • Improves the Look of Your Smile: If a tooth is chipped, cracked, or discolored, a crown can make a big difference. They’re designed to match your other teeth, giving you a smile that looks healthy and natural.
  • Protects a Weak Tooth from Breaking: A crown acts like a protective cover for a tooth that’s at risk. It wraps around the tooth, keeping it safe from cracks or breaks and helping you avoid more complicated dental problems.
  • Offers a Long-Lasting Fix: Crowns are durable and can last many years with proper care. They offer a long-term fix for various dental issues saving you from more frequent dental work.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours to allow the crown to settle securely.

Use over-the-counter pain relief if you feel any discomfort after the procedure

Keep up with good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, paying special attention around the crown.

Schedule regular check-ups with your Calgary dentist to keep an eye on the crown and ascertain everything stays in good shape.

The Process

1

Consultation

Discuss your dental needs and examine the condition of the tooth.

2

Impressions

Take an impression of your teeth for a proper fit.

3

Temporary Crown

Put a temporary crown on to protect the tooth.

4

Crown Fabrication

he laboratory manufactures the crown according to the mold and details.

5

Fitting

Try the crown for fit and appearance; make necessary adjustments.

6

Bonding

Secure the permanent crown in place using dental cement.

7

Final Check

Ensure proper bite and crown alignment before completion.

8

Aftercare

Provide care instructions to ensure the longevity and comfort of the crown.

The Benefits

Request Your Dental Crown Consultation Today!

Dental issues can get worse if left untreated, so it’s important to act quickly to maintain healthy teeth.

To find out if you are an ideal candidate for Dental Crowns, please contact Inglewood Family Dental at (403) 265-5888. Dr. Arash Ravanbakhsh looks forward to helping you improve your smile!

Book a Consultation

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FAQ’s About Dental Crowns

How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?

Please remember we follow the Alberta Fee Guide so there should not be any out of pocket expense for necessary dental treatment. If there is any cost, it will not exceed the recommended amount provided by the Alberta Government. If you are on a budget and can’t afford dental crowns, this is something we can work on together. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at (403) 265-5888

Your dentist makes the situation as comfortable as possible by numbing your tooth. You are given a topical anesthetic on your gums before the actual anesthetic is given. There is a chance you will feel a small pinch. When you receive a dental crown, there are many steps during the procedure that can cause discomfort and pain at any time and may have you feeling sore afterward, but we try to minimize your pain and make dental treatment fun and painless.

Some crowns are temporary, while others are permanent. One of the main differences is that temporary crowns are made in your dentist’s office, while permanent crowns are made in a lab unless your dentist has a lab on-site. Temporary crowns are made of stainless steel or acrylic-based material. They can be used as placeholders until the permanent crown is finished by the lab.
The lifespan of a dental crown is, on average, between 5 and 15 years. The amount of damage the crown experiences over the years really determines how long it may last. Other factors include your oral hygiene habits and certain foods you may eat. For example, if you like to eat hard or sticky candy, the chance of your dental crown making it to the 15-year mark is not likely.

If you have an insurance plan, check to see if it covers dental procedures like dental crowns. Many plans will pay a portion of the cost if a crown is needed. If you’re unsure about your coverage, contact your insurance provider directly to get detailed information on what’s included and if there are any limits.

We Welcome New Patients

Inglewood Family Dental is happy to welcome you and your family to our Calgary dental office.
We work hard to make you feel at home while providing a friendly and calm place for your dental care.

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