Dental crowns are used in both restorative dental care and cosmetic purposes. Crowns can be used to fix cracked or worn teeth, as well as supporting dental bridges,or to replace a missing tooth or teeth. They can be attached to dental implants as well, or used for restoration following a root canal. So, dental crowns are a key part of restorative dentistry.
What Dental Crowns are Made From
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of different material options, such as resin, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, stainless steel, and gold. The material that you and your dentist select depends on different factors, including where your tooth is located, how much of your natural tooth remains, and just how visible the crown will be when smiling. Additionally, durability and crown strength will also be considered.
Types of crowns include:
- Traditional Porcelain Crowns
Traditional porcelain crowns are made to match the color of your natural teeth. They are made in a dental lab by a technician, and offer a natural, attractive appearance.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
Also made from porcelain, this crown type is matched to your natural teeth for appearance. But, beneath the porcelain, the underlying metal may create a thin dark line at the crown’s base. These crowns are extremely long-lasting and are most often used when the strongest type of restoration is what’s needed.
- CEREC 1-day Crowns
CAD/CAM technology can create high quality, natural-looking porcelain crowns in just a single visit. Instead of waiting to receive porcelain crowns crafted from a dental lab, durable, attractive CEREC 1-Day crowns can be designed and placed simply. When CEREC crowns are used, there’s no temporary crown, as they can be created in one visit.
- Metal Crowns
Typically, metal crowns are gold, but other metal material used for crowns includes zirconia, which is also very strong, natural looking, but most often used with back teeth.
- Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are no longer in common use. They’re noticeable and not as durable as other options. They are still offered at times at pediatric dental offices for baby teeth.
- All-Resin Crowns
These crowns are constructed from a composite material that’s similar looking to your actual tooth color, and are considered the least costly crown material, However, they’re also the least durable.
How Much Do Crowns Cost?
How much is a crown? Cost of a dental crown typically ranges from $500 to $3,000 per tooth; depending on the type of material.
At our office, we are happy to discuss both insurance and finance options with our patients. An estimate of the amount covered by your insurance company will be given to you at the time of your treatment, based on the information your insurer provides. And, we’ll alsol file all insurance claims as a courtesy to our patients.
Ready to Learn More About Dental Crowns?
If you need a crown, we’re here to help! Reach out to us today - we’re skilled in cosmetic and restorative dental techniques including dental crowns.
If you’re ready to schedule a visit or simply learn more about crowns, give us a call. We’re ready to make sure your smile looks great and stays healthy.