HOW MUCH DO DENTAL CROWNS COST?
For different degrees of damage and decay to teeth, different treatment options are available. For very minor damage, dental bonding or a filling may be a great option. For slightly more severe damage, a dental veneer may be placed. If the crown of a tooth is very compromised, though, a dental crown may need to be placed to repair the damaged crown, and restore the integrity of the tooth.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are dental prosthetics that are used to replace the crown of a tooth that has been damaged due to decay or some form of injury.
What Crowns Repair
Dental crowns are great for repairing teeth that have suffered decay, or are:
- Severely Cracked
- Severely Broken
- Discolored or Misshapen
A prosthetic crown allows the patient to eat and bite down much like they did before the tooth was damaged. This functionality, along with the cosmetic appearance of having a complete tooth, make them ideal replacement options. While some replacement crown options are more noticeable (like metal or gold alloy), Other options such as ceramic and porcelain-fused to metal blend well with the natural tooth and the surrounding teeth. This allows the patient to speak and smile with confidence.
The Placement Process
The placement process of a crown begins with a trip to the dentist either to repair a decayed tooth, or to repair a tooth that has suffered damage. This may include an emergency trip to the dentist. If your general dentist is unable to see you immediately, you may need to consider contacting an emergency dentist for a more timely appointment.
Your dentist will look at the tooth, and consider whether there are any repair options available. From there, they may decide to place a prosthetic crown. The process of placement will then begin with a clearing away of any decay, as well as a reshaping of the tooth to prepare it for the placement of the crown. Your dentist will then make an impression that will be sent to a lab to fabricate the prosthetic. They will also help you to select the right shade and appearance of the tooth (if applicable). Once the prosthetic is ready, it will be sent to the dentist. Your dentist will check the fit and look, then will permanently place the prosthetic.
Crown Costs
The cost of your dental crown will depend on a few different factors—including the material that is being used, whether your insurance covers the procedure and any additional services that may be required before the placement. With this in mind, prosthetic crowns often cost between $1,000 and $3,000 per tooth. How long the crown will last will depend on the materials used, as well as how well the tooth is cared for after the placement of the prosthetic.
Speak with Your Dentist
If your tooth is damaged or decayed, set an appointment with your dentist to discuss treatment and repair options—including the placement of a dental crown.
Learn More About Dental Crowns : What Are Dental Crowns?