Dental Crowns: Versatile applications, options for materials, and conservative alternatives
Accidents can happen even with years of consistent good brushing, flossing, and regular visits to our office in Flower Mound, Texas. Severe cracks can arise. Trauma can occur. Any time there is severe damage to the natural crown, the white part of the tooth that is visible above the gum line in your smile, a dental crown made by our lab partners may be recommended.
More specifically, if damage has been sustained to the cusps — those pointy or rounded projections present on the chewing teeth or molars – full dental crowns are likely on the horizon. Flower Mound Dental mentions these back teeth because they tend to be more vulnerable to a leading cause of tooth loss: dental decay. Food particles, bacteria, and plaque get caught in their grooved or pitted surfaces. Plus, they are harder to clean than teeth in your smile zone and may even get a little less TLC than they need because no one sees them!
As a proactive, gentle, and exceptional dentistry provider, Dr. William E. Wyatt, Jr. tries to avoid this problem by recommending professional preventive services like dental sealants. These thin coverings protect these vulnerable back teeth from the substances that cause decay and can then threaten the structural integrity and health of the tooth.
How Dental Crowns Can Restore and Protect Your Teeth
Dental crowns are incredibly versatile for teeth that have already sustained damage. They may be prepared, designed, fabricated, and placed to:
- Hold together pieces of a broken tooth
- Restore a tooth with a large cavity
- Replace an extensive or worn filling
- Preserve a tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy
- Replace a tooth as part of a bridge (neighboring teeth are crowned to support the prosthetic tooth)
- Replace a tooth with dental implants (crowns are attached to implants designed to function like tooth roots in the jaw)
- Improve the aesthetics of a severely misshapen tooth, and correct other cosmetic concerns affecting teeth that are not good candidates for procedures such as dental bonding or porcelain veneers
Additionally, various dental materials can be used to make your lovely and strong crown. These materials include metals like gold and ceramics like porcelain. Dr. Wyatt is happy to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each material with you. There is sure to be an option well-suited to your needs, preferences, budget, and the many other factors that can influence your choice of treatment.
Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns
Why do I need a dental crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped restoration worn over the remaining tooth structure. Think of a dental crown as a protective cap that:Â
- Repairs a significantly damaged tooth
- Strengthens a weakened tooth after decay or trauma
- Improves the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth
- Pairs with a bridge or implant to replace one or more missing teeth
A dental crown protects your natural tooth structure while restoring strength, function, and beauty. It gives your tooth a second chance to live and thrive again.Â
Does insurance cover dental crowns?
The short answer is yes, but not always in full. Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of dental crowns, especially when they are needed for restorative purposes. If you need a crown for aesthetic reasons, your insurance may not cover it. Since every coverage is different, talk to your provider before starting treatment.
What is the cost of a dental crown?
The cost of a crown depends on several factors, including material type and the need for adjunct procedures like rebuilding the core. On average, dental crowns in Flower Mound cost between $1,000 and $2,500 per tooth. We’ll provide a personalized cost after a consultation.
What are the alternatives to dental crowns?
Alternatives include dental onlays, inlays, or tooth-colored fillings, depending on how much of your tooth needs restoration. However, a crown is usually the best way to restore strength and function if the damage is extensive.
Does a dental crown need replacement?
Dental crowns are durable, but they may need replacement at some point. Over time, they may wear down, chip, or loosen. When you notice signs of replacement, notify your dentist immediately. A damaged dental crown exposes the underlying tooth to further damage or infection.
How long does a dental crown last?
Dental crowns aren’t a short-term fix. They can last 10-15 years or more. However, good maintenance is key to maximizing the longevity of your crowns. Practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist routinely. Avoiding habits like teeth grinding or chewing ice also helps extend its lifespan.
Does my dental crown look natural?
Modern crowns are custom-made from materials like porcelain or zirconia to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Most people won’t notice you have a crown, even when placed on the front teeth.
Can a crowned tooth get cavities?
While the crown itself can’t develop decay, the tooth underneath can still develop decay where the crown meets the gumline. That’s why you should maintain good care for your crown with oral hygiene and routine check-ups.
Who offers high-quality dental crowns in my area?
Dental crowns are a perfect solution for restoring a severely compromised tooth. However, your provider can make all the difference. Flower Mound Dental combines cutting-edge technology with clinical excellence to deliver durable, functional, and long-lasting crowns. Call (972) 351-8555 and schedule an appointment with our team today.
Rebuild Your Teeth With Expertly Crafted Dental Crowns
Call (972) 351-8555 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Wyatt at our Flower Mound, TX office. More conservative restorative options may be in your future, depending on what we find and discuss with you. These alternatives include dental inlays and onlays, used to repair teeth with damage to the chewing surface or at least one cusp when the damage is not sufficiently severe to warrant a full-coverage crown.
