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man smiling at cameraHas your dentist suggested a crown for your dental problem? Unsure about the recommendation? Check out these eight questions (and answers) to help you understand why your dentist may have suggested a dental crown for you.

Talk to your dentist in-person to learn why a dental crown is the best solution for your smile. If you’re interested in a second opinion, consider visiting with our Salinas, CA team at Dental Concepts Am I a good candidate for a dental crown?

Dental crowns can restore teeth suffering from a variety of problems. If you’re suffering from any of these issues, you are likely a good candidate for a dental crown:

  • Advanced tooth decay
  • Tooth erosion
  • Trauma
  • Chipped or cracked tooth
  • Root canal infection
  • Misshaped tooth
  • Difficulty chewing or talking
  • Cosmetic blemishes

1. How long does the process of receiving a dental crown take?

The process takes two separate appointments. These appointments are typically two weeks apart. What happens during these appointments is discussed in the next question.

2. What happens during the procedure?

During your first appointment, the tooth must be prepared for the crown. Preparation will be different for each person. For example, if you have an old, leaking filling, the restoration and any new decay should be removed before crown placement. If you have a nerve infection, you’ll need root canal therapy. Basically, if the tooth is unhealthy, the dentist will remove the unhealthy parts. The tooth will then be shaped to accept the crown, and an impression will be made.

In the following two weeks, the dental crown will be created in a dental lab. Once it arrives back at the dentist’s office, you will return to have the crown placed. You and your dentist will make sure the crown is the correct color and fit. Minor adjustments can be made if necessary.

Once the crown is perfect, your dentist will cement it into place.

3. What are the advantages of a dental crown?

For patients looking for pain relief and to restore a tooth’s structure, appearance, and/or health, dental crowns are a great option. Here are five benefits of dental crowns:

  • Relief from pain and discomfort
  • A simple procedure
  • Natural-looking appearance
  • Lasts up to 10+ years (depending on the material used)
  • High success rate

4. What are the disadvantages?

Most dentists believe that the advantages of dental crowns far outweigh the disadvantages. However, we suggest considering these risks before committing to treatment.

  • Irreversible changes to the original tooth
  • Short period of discomfort following the procedure
  • Possible allergic reaction

5. Are there different types of dental crowns?

A handful of materials can be used to fabricate a dental crown. Your dentist will help choose which material is best suited for your situation. Here are the different dental crown materials:

  • Metal (gold, palladium, nickel, chromium)
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
  • Zirconia
  • Ceramic/porcelain

6. How much does a dental crown cost?

The cost of a dental crown varies from dentist to dentist and is based on the type of dental crown you need or want.  As will most things, you get what you pay for! Ask your dentist’s front desk associate for specific pricing.

Some of the cost may be covered by dental insurance, so be sure to choose a dentist that works with your insurance provider.

If you don’t have insurance, ask about other financing options.

7. Are there any alternative treatments?

For some, a dental crown may be the only worthwhile solution. However, there are sometimes multiple solutions to a dental problem. If a crown doesn’t seem like the best option for you, ask your dentist if any of these alternatives will work:

  • Porcelain inlays or onlays
  • A filling
  • Veneer
  • Dental bonding

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you have a tooth that requires restoration, delaying treatment will only lead to more damage. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Call (831) 443-3633.