A dental crown is a natural-looking, protective cap designed to enhance the health and aesthetics of the smile. Dental crowns play a critical role in dental prosthetics and preserve the integrity of the natural tooth root after invasive dental treatments.
When your dentist suggests a dental crown, three questions may come to mind: (1) Why would I need a dental crown? (2) Which type of dental crown is best? (3) How much will this cost me? In this blog, we answer all three of these questions.
During a first visit, the dentist will evaluate your particular case and suggest potential treatments. Generally, dentists recommend dental crowns if the tooth cannot be restored with a filling but can still be saved from extraction.
An experienced dentist may suggest a dental crown to:
With proper care, crowns can last up to 15 to 30 years. Contemporary crowns are crafted from many materials, but the main types of crowns are:
1. Ceramic: All-porcelain crowns are the most popular type of crown used because they are durable, biocompatible, and most natural-looking. This type of restoration is strong but is not ideal for patients who suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding).
2. Metal and gold alloys: Metal-based crowns are strong and ideal for posterior restorations. However, they are not aesthetically pleasing, and some people are allergic to some types of metal.
3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): PFM crowns have been around for over half a century and are a long-lasting solution. They are more aesthetically pleasing than metal-based restorations but may cause a gray line at the gumline.
At Los Lunas Smiles, we believe that ceramic crowns are the best option in most cases. Porcelain crowns are the most natural-looking because they refract natural light like enamel. Porcelain can be color-matched to blend in seamlessly with the smile. Also, they are an excellent choice for patients with metal allergies.
If you need a crown, it’s natural to start considering the costs. The cost will vary depending on the type of material used, and the preparation required. For example, if a crown requires minimal planning and groundwork, there shouldn’t be too many additional fees. On the other hand, more extensive prep work (such as a root canal) may double the total price of the crown.
Generally, crowns range from $300 to $3,000 per tooth. Thankfully, most dental insurance plans partially cover the cost of a crown for preventative and restorative treatment, which is typically 50% to an in-network dentist. However, if your crown is for exclusively cosmetic reasons, insurance is not likely to cover it.
Whether you have a dental emergency, need preventative treatment, or want to enhance aesthetics, a dental crown may help improve your smile’s function, health, and appearance. Our wonderful doctors and dental staff offer patients a welcoming, professional environment in Albuquerque and Los Lunas, NM. Please call (505) 865-4341 or message us online to schedule an appointment for dental crowns in Los Lunas.
