03 Jul What Is A Dental Crown
What Is A Dental Crown? Definition, Types, Procedure, and Aftercare Explained
A radiant smile can be such a confidence booster, and your dental health plays a crucial role in defining the charm of that smile. Regular brushing, flossing, avoiding staining or sticky foods, and dental check-ups is the key. However, your teeth may sometimes need extra TLC to maintain their strength and aesthetics. That’s where dental crowns come in! At Iroquois Dental in Naperville, Illinois, our experts are here to guide you through the world of dental crowns.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, often called a “cap,” is a protective covering placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength and improve its appearance. When cemented into place, the crown encases the entire visible portion of the impacted tooth.
Types of Crowns
Today, dentists offer a massive variety, but the common types of crowns may include the following:
· All-Porcelain Crowns
All-porcelain crowns are popular for their metal-free composition and natural appearance. They’re particularly favored for front teeth restorations and are entirely biocompatible. However, they may require diligent care and might come at a higher price than many other crowns.
· Metal Crowns
Metal crowns offer impressive durability but a less lifelike appearance. Many dentists recommend these for back tooth restoration due to their strength. Metal crowns can be made of silver, gold, or stainless steel and are excellent for people who often clench or grind their teeth.
· Porcelain Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
Today, PFM crowns are a dental mainstay. They’re aesthetically pleasing, durable, and cost less than their all-porcelain counterparts. These have a metal-alloy interior and a porcelain exterior, which doesn’t always appear purely natural.
· E-MAX: Lithium Disilicate Crowns
E-MAX crowns are at the forefront of dental crown technology. These are attractive, durable, and excellent for both anterior and posterior teeth. On the downside, they might be pricier and pose challenges when used for back teeth, especially in multiple units.
· Zirconia Crowns
Emerging as a fusion of strength and aesthetics, modern dentistry increasingly favors zirconia crowns. These provide excellent aesthetics while ensuring longevity. They are also metal-free (reducing the risk of allergic reaction) but might experience accelerated wear for this reason.
Cost of Crowns
The cost of crowns depends on the material used:
- All-porcelain crowns range from $800-$3,000
- Gold crowns typically cost between $600 and $2,500
- PFM crowns come in at $500-$1,500
- Zirconia and E-max crowns may cost similar to all-porcelain crowns
Insurance coverage can mitigate some of these costs, generally covering about 50% of necessary treatments, though cosmetic procedures might not be covered.
Cost Difference with an In-Network vs. Out-Of-Network Dentist
Choosing between an in-network and an out-of-network dentist can affect your final bill. While both may offer 50% insurance coverage, out-of-network dentists can have higher fees, increasing your out-of-pocket expenses.
For instance, an in-network dentist billing you $1000 for a crown procedure might land you with $500 out-of-pocket expenses, whereas the same procedure provided by an out-of-network dentist would cost $1300, landing you with $650 out of pocket.
However, don’t base your choices solely on cost. An experienced dentist might be worth the extra expense.
Before deciding:
- Understand the primary reason for getting a crown
- Know the right material and its pros and cons
- Consult your preferred dentist and verify insurance coverage
- Compare fees with other dentists
- Consider factors like staff friendliness, the dentist’s approach, and the quality of materials used
- Know the expected lifespan of the crown
- Understand the maintenance needs, time commitment, and potential risks
- You’d also want to consider post-procedure care and potential future replacements
Be cautious of practices that add unnecessary services to compensate for fee differences.
Caring for Crowns
The right choice of crown can be worth your time and money. But what really makes a difference once you get a crown is its aftercare. Here are some tips to follow to add to your crown’s longevity:
· Good Oral Hygiene
Just because the tooth is crowned doesn’t mean it’s immune to dental problems. Brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash help keep your oral health in check.
· Avoiding Hard Foods
While crowns are durable, they can be chipped or broken by hard substances. It’s advisable to avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, and even sticky foods, like caramel, that can pull the crown.
· Mouth Guards
For those who grind or clench their teeth, a night guard can protect crowns from excessive force and potential damage. A sports guard may be beneficial if you’re involved in activities with a risk of facial injury.
· Avoiding Staining Agents
While crowns resist staining, the cement used to bond them isn’t. Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tobacco; these can stain the edges and cause discoloration over time.
· Routine Checks & Maintenance
Regular dental check-ups ensure your crown remains in optimal condition. It monitors changes and helps address potential issues or maintenance needs right in time.
· Proper Tools
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the surface of the crown. Non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended to ensure the longevity and shine of the crown.
· Special Care for Temporary Crowns
Until you get your permanent crown, avoid chewy, sticky, or hard foods. Slide the floss out rather than lifting it out to avoid dislodging the temporary crown.
Ready To Restore Your Smile With Confidence?
Dental crowns are a testament to modern dentistry’s capability to restore and enhance your natural teeth. If you need a crown, the skilled professionals at Iroquois Dental in Naperville, Illinois, are eager to assist you on your dental journey. Contact us at 630-416-0780 to let our expert team guide you to the perfect crown solution for your needs.
No Comments