Do you have a decayed, damaged, or misshapen tooth? Crowns are custom-made restorations we can use to repair and enhance damaged teeth, and thanks to our team’s skill and artistic eye, you can trust that the end result will be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. If you are in need of some top-quality smile repair, give New Haven Dental Group a call today to discuss smile repair with dental crowns in Woodbridge, CT.
A dental crown gets its name from the fact that it literally sits on top of a natural tooth, covering the entire portion of the tooth above the gum line. This enables it to fulfill two important purposes: One, it protects weakened or fragile enamel, and two, it restores a tooth’s shape and appearance. Crowns help us save damaged teeth from extraction, making them an important part of conservative dentistry that is focused on each patient’s well-being.
With a dental crown, we can accomplish all of the following:
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, ranging from all-metal to all-porcelain. The material we choose will be based on where in the mouth a tooth is located as well as a patient’s specific situation and preferences. Generally, a back tooth needs to be as strong as possible, so we will use a metal crown, while a front tooth needs to be strong and pleasing to look at, in which case we can provide an all-porcelain crown.
The procedure to get a crown involves three basic phases that will unfold across two appointments:
Right after the procedure, your tooth might feel extra sensitive for a few days, but this should subside naturally. To take care of your crown, all you need to do is treat it like a natural tooth; you should brush, floss, and attend regular checkups. With proper care, your crown has the potential to last for about 15-20 years.
The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on a few different factors. During your restorative consultation, we will be able to share some specific numbers with you. We will also help you to understand your payment options, such as insurance, financing, and the Essential Dental discount plan. Many patients are surprised by how affordable their treatment can be!
Some factors that may influence the cost of your crown include:
Keep in mind that if you come across a deal for a “cheap” crown, it is best to be cautious. Quality is important for dental treatment, and patients are often disappointed with low-cost options. You want a crown that looks good, feels good, and will last for several years.
It is very common for dental insurance to cover dental crowns. Usually, this treatment is classified as a major procedure, so around 50% of its cost might be covered, up to the amount of your policy’s annual maximum. (If your crown is purely for cosmetic purposes, however, it might not be covered at all. It should be important for your oral health in order to qualify for coverage.) Our team accepts more than 200 dental insurance plans; we will be happy to help you maximize your benefits.
Aside from insurance, there are a few provisions that might make it easier for you to afford your crown:
Are you curious to learn more about dental crowns and their cost? Get in touch with our team today to book a consultation.
If you suspect you need a dental crown, our Woodbridge team is ready and eager to serve you. Prior to booking your consultation, however, you may want to gather more information about the road in front of you. To assist you, we have compiled the following list of dental crowns FAQs, along with succinct answers. If your specific questions are not included here, give us a call. We will be pleased to speak with you.
Dental crowns can be constructed out of a range of materials. Here in our practice, we tend to use the following:
During the crown preparation portion of treatment, our team usually has to remove a significant amount of enamel from the tooth. The enamel will never be able to regrow on its own, so the tooth will always need a crown to protect it from outside stimuli. In a sense, then, it can be said that crowns require a permanent commitment.
However, you should not expect your crown to last forever. It may last for 5 – 15 years before it needs to be replaced. You can help it to endure as long as possible by sticking to a thorough oral hygiene routine, regularly visiting us for checkups, and taking other simple precautions.
It is technically impossible for crowns to get cavities because they do not decay like natural tooth enamel. However, the tooth beneath a crown can still get cavities. This can occur if bacteria and plaque collect along the gumline. Eventually, they can sneak beneath the restoration and damage the underlying dentition.
The best way to prevent cavities on restored teeth is by adhering to good habits. For example, you should thoroughly brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, eat a balanced diet, and attend regular dental cleanings.
We always numb the tooth we will be working on, so you should not expect to experience any pain during the crown preparation process. Once the local anesthesia wears off, though, your tooth and gums may be sore and sensitive for a while. This can also happen after a permanent crown is placed. Usually, any discomfort wears off within a few weeks. In the meantime, you can minimize unpleasantness by eating a soft, non-spicy diet and taking other measures to be gentle with your treated tooth. It is also fine to take OTC pain relievers if necessary.
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