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Home/Dental Services/Cosmetic Dentistry/Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain Crowns

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a durable, custom-made “cap” that is placed on a damaged tooth. Many of our patients have benefited from crowns, which we design using a sturdy porcelain to thoroughly protect the tooth underneath. An example of both restorative and cosmetic dentistry, porcelain crowns can improve both the aesthetic quality and overall function of the mouth – all while feeling and appearing incredibly natural. Our cosmetic dentists, Justin Roberts, DDS and Olivia Straka, DDS, are well-versed in general, restorative, and cosmetic dental solutions, making them ideal dentists to see you through the crown process.

What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Crowns?

Dental crowns can be applied to solve or improve several concerns, including:

Beginning at the gum line, crowns completely cover the tooth, strengthening and protecting it while restoring a natural appearance. Crowns are often incorporated into other restorative procedures, such as fillings, dental implants, and bridges. They are also usually used in root canals, which can require extra protection for the affected tooth.

Who Is a Candidate for Porcelain Crowns?

You may be a good candidate for porcelain crowns if you have a damaged, weakened, or severely discolored tooth that cannot be restored with a filling or bonding. Porcelain crowns are often ideal for protecting teeth after root canal therapy, covering large cavities, restoring broken teeth, or improving the appearance of misshapen teeth. They are also typically used to support dental bridges or top dental implants. Since porcelain closely mimics the look and feel of natural enamel, it offers both strength and a beautiful, lifelike appearance. Our dentists can evaluate your oral health, tooth structure, and cosmetic goals to determine if a porcelain crown is the right solution for you.

What Does the Porcelain Crown Procedure Involve?

Like many effective restorative procedures, the dental crown process is completed in a few steps. First, at your initial consultation, one of our dentists will examine your mouth, making sure the teeth are in good standing for the addition of a crown. When you are deemed ready to undergo the procedure, your tooth will be prepared for the restoration, which can include performing a filling, and your mouth will likely be numbed.

A mold and scan will then be taken for the shape of the crown. You will be given a temporary crown while the permanent is being crafted. The impression is sent to a laboratory, where the crown is created to match the unique color and shape of your teeth. After a few weeks, you will return to our office to have your new crown put in. The recovery process is generally straightforward and you should experience minimal discomfort.

How Long Do Porcelain Crowns Last?

While they are typically long-lasting, porcelain crowns will likely need to be replaced after a certain amount of time. When cared for properly, they usually last about 10 years. To keep your crowns in great condition, brush and floss daily, avoid biting hard objects, and schedule regular dental checkups to keep your crown and surrounding teeth healthy. Our dentists can provide you with additional tips for maintaining your dental crowns to help them last as long as possible.

Dental Crowns Vs. Dental Veneers

Both dental crowns and dental veneers are custom made to look, fit, and feel as natural as your surrounding teeth for a comfortable and polished result. However, patients often ask what differentiates each treatment, as they can sometimes be confused for one another. In general:

During the initial consultation with Dr. Roberts or Dr. Straka, they will be able to better understand your specific needs and the ideal solution to treat your dental concerns.

Are There Alternatives to Dental Crowns?

There are alternative solutions to dental crowns, but your eligibility will depend on the type and severity of your specific dental concern. For example, porcelain veneers, composite bonding, and tooth-colored fillings may be suitable for mild cases, whereas dental implants or dental bridges may be preferred for repairing more significantly weakened or broken teeth. After a thorough examination with Dr. Roberts or Dr. Straka, a customized treatment plan will be created based on your unique needs to help restore both form and function.

How Do I Choose a Dentist for Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are designed to last for many years, so it is important to find a skilled, qualified dentist that will be able to maximize the outcome of your treatment. To ensure you receive the highest-quality restoration and optimal result from your dental crown, it is helpful to consider the following qualifications for your dentist to make an informed decision:

The next beneficial step is to schedule a consultation to determine your rapport, comfort level, trust, and shared ideals of patient care so you can go into your treatment feeling relaxed and confident.

How Much Do Porcelain Crowns Cost?

Generally, crowns cost between $1,000-$3,500. We will determine the precise cost based on the number of crowns needed, the material being used, the extent of work being done, and other factors. Because we never want financial issues to stand in the way of the treatment you deserve, we aim to facilitate payment to the best of our ability. We accept all major credit cards and work with CareCredit®, a program that helps you finance your treatment according to your budget and timeline. We are always willing to answer questions about our financial options.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Crowns?

Most insurance companies will help cover the cost of crowns that are deemed necessary for restorative dentistry purposes. The exact coverage will depend on the insurance policy and particulars of the treatment plan. If the crown is intended for purely cosmetic reasons, insurance will most likely not cover any of the costs. Our team is happy to review estimated pricing along with your insurance information to determine any out-of-pocket costs you may incur.

Additional Porcelain Crown Frequently Asked Questions

Can porcelain crowns be whitened?

Porcelain crowns cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening treatments. The material generally does not respond to bleaching agents like natural tooth enamel. If your crown no longer matches the color of your surrounding teeth, our dentists may recommend replacing it for a brighter, more uniform appearance. To maintain your crown’s natural-looking shade, it’s best to practice good oral hygiene and avoid foods and drinks that can cause surface discoloration over time.

Can I eat normally after getting dental crowns?

Yes, you can eat normally after getting dental crowns, but it’s best to wait until any numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. For the first 24 hours, we recommend sticking to soft foods while the crown fully settles. Once it’s secure, you can usually return to your regular diet. Porcelain crowns can be strong and durable, allowing you to chew comfortably, but it’s wise to avoid overly hard or sticky foods that could damage or loosen the crown.

Does the porcelain crowns procedure hurt?

The porcelain crown procedure is typically not painful. The area will be numbed before treatment to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the process. You may feel slight pressure during tooth preparation, but in most cases, no sharp pain. After the numbness wears off, mild sensitivity or soreness is common and usually fades within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any temporary discomfort, making the experience generally smooth and easy for many patients.

We invite you to schedule your consultation with Dr. Roberts or Dr. Straka today.