A dental crown has long been used to restore the appearance and functionality of damaged teeth. The tooth-shaped caps aid in the restoration of your teeth and the enhancement of your smile.
When a dentist recommends that you get a dental crown, you could have two issues in mind. That is the best dental crown for you and how much it costs. This blog will guide you through the various types of dental crowns and their costs.
How to Know If You are a Good Candidate for Dental Crowns
After carrying out a comprehensive examination during your initial office appointment, your dentist would assess your unique case and advise you on treatment options. In general, the following are some of the reasons for receiving dental crowns:
- A weakened tooth as a result of serious cavity or decay
- To cover teeth implants
- Teeth that have had root canals
- To replace large fillings
- Natural teeth that have been cracked or damaged
- To improve the appearance of your smile by leveling the shape, color, and size of the teeth
- Aligning your bite
The Type of Dental Crown to Choose
When you require a crown, you'll first consider the different types of crowns and their prices. There are several things you should think about. Among these are:
- The dentist's expertise in conducting the dental crown operation
- The dental practice's reputation
- Previous patients' feedback and satisfaction
- The procedure's cost
- Your patient/provider relationship with the dentist
- If your insurer covers the treatment or any additional payment options exist
- Convenient Scheduling Alternatives
- Dental emergency services
Each one of these factors should be considered before deciding on a dental professional for your dental crown procedure. To make the ideal, and most informed choice, you'll need to carry out your research and analyze your options.
Nowadays, dental health plays a vital role in our lives. Everyone wants to have healthy teeth that look attractive. Sometimes getting dental crowns is the best option for achieving this. This is due to the wide range of dental crown variants that are available, each with a different set of materials, costs, processes, and patient requirements. The following are the most common types of dental crowns used in dental care:
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Gold Crowns
Gold dental crowns are normally composed of copper and several other elements like chromium or nickel. The main advantage of a gold dental crown is its strength and longevity. Some dental professionals would recommend gold crowns for a back restoration, based on the requirements of each individual. However, because of their hue and aesthetic purposes, gold dental crowns are not popular anymore.
The advantages of gold dental crowns include the following:
- They are tough and resistant
- If properly maintained, they endure a very long period
- Require less removal of your original teeth
- They deteriorate slowly, much like natural enamel
- They are good for posterior restorations, especially second molars
Disadvantages of using gold crowns include the following:
- Some individuals may suffer from side effects of wearing gold crowns, like swelling or allergic reactions
- Poor aesthetics since they don’t look like natural teeth
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All Porcelain Dental Crown
This is the most common type of dental crown used today. They're entirely composed of porcelain material. The benefits of using porcelain crowns include:
- Crowns made of ceramic or porcelain have the nicest and most authentic appearance
- They have the same size, color, and shape as the surrounding teeth
- The most ideal choice for front teeth restoration
- They're biocompatible, which implies that they are free of toxic materials since no metallic elements are used
However, the main disadvantages of using porcelain crowns are as follows:
- They aren't as sturdy as metal dental crowns. Porcelain dental crowns can stay for long periods if properly maintained
- Individuals suffering from illnesses such as bruxism are recommended to use gold over PFM
- They could be more expensive than other kinds of crowns, like metal crowns
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Porcelain Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
Another popular type of crown is the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. This type offers both beauty (owing to its porcelain coat which covers the cap) and strength (because of its metallic structure.)
The major advantages of PFM dental crowns are as follows:
- They are long-lasting and attractive
- They have been in existence for more than fifty years, which guarantees their functionality
- They're less costly than all-porcelain dental crowns
However, PFMs do have several drawbacks, such as:
- These crowns' metal components could result in a gray line forming at the gum line. This might not give the aesthetic appearance that all-porcelain dental crowns offer
- This type of dental crown could deteriorate more quickly against the other teeth for persons who clench their teeth
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Zirconia Dental Crown
Zirconium, a recently developed substance, combines metal durability with porcelain crown aesthetics. Zirconia crowns with high translucency properties and layers of zirconia have become increasingly popular.
The following are the major benefits of zirconia dental crowns:
- They are visually appealing
- They are sturdy and durable (they do not break or chip easily)
- Since zirconia crowns can be carved and sculpted in the same dentist facility, the procedure might take less time. It's not required to send the crowns to a lab
- Because of their resilience, zirconia crowns do not wear down easily
- They're biocompatible and unlikely to produce allergic reactions since they are free from metal
Zirconia crowns have several major drawbacks, including:
- The sturdiness of the zirconia material has led to some worries about wear and tear on the adjacent teeth due to friction. However, regular check-ups help to limit the risk of harming the adjacent teeth
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E- MAX: Lithium Disilicate Dental Crown
E-Max dental crowns are the most recent kind of dental crowns in dentistry. It's a type of all-ceramic dental crown that comprises lithium disilicate. E-max dental crowns are mostly beneficial for the following reasons:
- Good aesthetic. The crown looks really good in the mouth
- They are an excellent option for both back and front teeth
- They are strong and can last for a long time
The main drawbacks of these dental crowns include the following:
- Some dental specialists have encountered failures while using E-Max crowns for rear teeth, especially when conducting multiple units
- They might cost extra, especially for dental practices which would or would not transfer the costs to you
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?
Given that you are now aware of your alternatives for crowns, you certainly would like to know how much each form of the crown will cost. As for the costs, they will vary according to the materials and level of preparation needed. For instance, porcelain dental crowns are typically more expensive than metal crowns.
In some situations, solid build-ups are necessary before a dental crown is installed to assist preserve the tooth's integrity.
Other times, dentists must do a gingivectomy, also known as a little gum surgery, whereby a small portion of your gums is removed from the jaw to improve the tooth/ teeth's appearance or prognosis.
You would also need a root canal procedure, in which the total costs of the surgery can easily increase twofold. In general, crowns could cost between $500 to $2000 or more.
This range is affected by several factors, including whether you are insured, what your health insurance covers, the rates your dentist charges for dental work, as well as the additional treatment sessions required to finish your treatment.
In other words, if you're searching for a cheaper option, you may spend $400 to $600 on a resin dental crown. This is basically a restoration created by the dental specialist instead of a lab elsewhere.
The advantages of this technique include reduced costs and time spent at the dentist's office. The drawback is durability. It is advised to use indirect resin dental crowns as a short-term, cost-effective treatment. However, unlike crowns, it's not intended to last for a very long time.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost at an Out-Of-Network Dentist vs. an In-Network Dentist?
The costs will differ based on the kind of dentist you see. Although the procedure would be partially covered in both situations, your out-of-pocket expenses for an out-of-network dentist would be significantly higher. This is because in-network dentists have contracts with insurance providers and must adhere to a pricing schedule.
For instance, if a crown costs $800 and you use an in-network dentist, the out-of-pocket expenses would amount to $400. However, when you visit an out-of-network practice, they could charge $1100 for the identical procedure, placing your costs could be at $550.
However, you shouldn't choose your treatment decision purely based on price. Paying a little extra for that extra peace of mind could be worthwhile if you're happy with your dentist, they have positive ratings, or they are highly recommended.
Also, watch out for instances where offices, particularly those with a bigger patient base, attempt to compensate for the differences in costs by trying to add procedures you do not require (such as billing for gum surgeries when it is not necessary).
The best course of action is to schedule a consultation with your chosen dentist first. Request that their personnel perform a free insurance check to determine what the dental policy covers and also what your share will be.
Once you have that information, you can check with local dentists to see if the dentist's charges are reasonable. However, always remember to consider other factors other than costs before making a choice. The extra money could be worthwhile if it results in a pleasant environment, a skilled and highly recommended specialist, or better labs and supplies.
What Factors Should You Take Into Account Before Undergoing a Dental Crown Procedure?
Dental crowns are long-lasting. That implies you'll get to have a crown inside your mouth for the foreseeable future. You would like to have it done as professionally and skillfully as possible.
If possible, do not go to the cheapest dentist available without first reviewing your choices when comparing dental crown types and costs. Weigh every detail before making a choice.
Spending a little more money could be ideal if you want to ensure that the outcomes are long-lasting and positive. Choosing the cheapest alternatives could result in low-quality procedures, which may cost you more time, money, and pain in the long run.
Additionally, you want to confirm whether your chosen specialist works in or out of the network. Sometimes out-of-network dentists will make every effort to submit all of your bills on your behalf so that, after the procedure is complete, you can receive a direct check in the mail for your expenses. Going outside of the designated providers' networks can occasionally guarantee higher-quality care or generally better service.
Choosing a Dentist For Your Dental Crown Needs
The choice of a dentist is crucial when determining whether to undergo a dental crown procedure. It is critical to have all of the details before deciding on a dentist or the choice of material for your crown. Your crown must work and resemble a natural tooth without costing a fortune.
You must feel at ease with the dental office you choose to entrust with your dental health. Conduct your research before making any decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the most commonly asked questions on the choice and costs of dental crowns:
What Kinds of Dental Crowns are Most Commonly Used?
Dental crowns come in several forms. Gold dental crowns are incredibly durable and sturdy, that's why they're chosen for back tooth treatments. All-porcelain dental crowns are also most commonly used because they are metal free and have a more natural look.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns are less expensive. They resemble natural teeth, yet the metal structure could result in gray gum lines just above the crown. Zirconia Crowns are built with a brand-new material that offers exceptional strength and aesthetics. Zirconia crowns and Emax crowns are comparable in size, appearance, and cost.
What are the Materials Used in Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are made of a variety of materials. The most often used components are gold, zirconium, porcelain fused to metal, and porcelain. Each one is priced differently and serves a different function.
What are the Most Common Dental Crown Issues?
A crown is a durable treatment that addresses a variety of dental issues, including tooth decay, fractured teeth, infections, sensitivity, and more. After receiving a crown, you need to take proper care of it by getting frequent checkups to prevent issues like cavities developing beneath the dental crown, having the crown cracked or fractured, or experiencing severe soreness in that region.
Make an appointment to see your dentist right away if you experience any of these problems or any adverse reactions.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can last for five to twenty years. Your crown's longevity will be influenced by how well you take care of it and also how much wear and tear it endures daily.
How Much are Dental Crowns?
A typical dental crown will range in price from 1100 to $1500. Nevertheless, costs will differ according to the kind of crown selected. The cost of the crown will increase if you undergo a root canal, bone grafting, or gum surgery as these procedures are performed before your crown is fixed and their costs vary. Insurance providers also provide varying levels of coverage based on the kind of policy you have.
Why Do Dental Crowns Cost So Much?
Your dentist's technology and skill are essential while installing a crown. Dental crowns are painstakingly crafted to precisely match the durability and strength of your teeth.
What Factors Influence the Costs of Dental Crowns?
Knowing the estimated cost of dental crowns will help you evaluate your alternatives before having one. Therefore, you should carry out your research before scheduling an appointment. Dental crown prices are influenced by several factors. They include:
- How much your teeth have been damaged
- The kind of materials used to create the crown
- The required dental crown size
- The tooth/teeth in need of a restoration
- The typical price range for a dental crown is between 1100 and 1500 dollars
- Insurance deductibles, coverage limits, and your insurance provider
- The total number of crowns required
- The dentist or clinic you choose
Are Dental Crowns Worth the Cost?
They are without a doubt worth it. A crown can be used to shield your teeth when they're in danger of falling out. Since our teeth need to last a lifetime, it is strongly advised that you undertake the appropriate steps to preserve any teeth that could be at risk.
The other alternative is to wait till the teeth have completely fallen out, where you will need to select a tooth replacement alternative. However, it's much better to take care of any dental issues you have at the moment. Waiting too long will probably result in you having to get dentures rather than crowns.
Find a Tarzana Dentist Near Me
Dental crowns are among the numerous treatment options for replacing lost, damaged, or decaying teeth. Contact Tarzana Dental Care now to discover if you're a suitable candidate for this procedure and to learn more about other tooth replacement alternatives. Call us at 818-708-3232.