A dental crown is a versatile and popular restoration option used to cover, or “cap,” a damaged, weakened, or discolored tooth. Crowns enhance a tooth’s appearance and restore its function and strength. Furthermore, at Zara Dental in Houston, we provide a variety of crowns tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Here, we will look at the history of dental crowns, the various types available today, and when you might need one.
What Are Dental Crowns?
The history of dental crowns dates back thousands of years, with early versions made from materials like animal bones, ivory, and gold. These materials were chosen for their durability, but they lacked the aesthetic appeal of today’s alternatives. Gold crowns were famous for their durability, but dentists mostly used them on back teeth.
Dental crowns are now made from various materials, such as porcelain, zirconia, and composite resin. Modern crowns can mimic a tooth’s natural appearance and feel, blending seamlessly with the rest of your smile while providing long-term strength.
Types of Dental Crowns
Metal Crowns: Durability and Appearance
Metal crowns, commonly made of gold or other alloys, are highly durable and resistant to wear. They are ideal for back teeth where strength is essential, but their metallic color may make them less popular for visible teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the durability of metal with the beauty of porcelain. Dentists commonly use them on front and back teeth because they are durable and natural-looking. However, the metal layer underneath can sometimes show through the porcelain with time.
All-Porcelain and All-Ceramic Crowns
All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns are an excellent option for those who prioritize aesthetics. Moreover, these crowns are ideal for front teeth because they can closely match the color of natural teeth. However, they may be slightly less durable than metal-based crowns and wear down faster.
Zirconia Crowns: Strength Meets Aesthetics
Zirconia crowns provide a good balance of durability and aesthetics, making them a popular choice among patients. These crowns are extremely strong and can withstand biting forces, so they are suitable for front and back teeth. Furthermore, zirconia’s natural white color allows it to blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
Composite Resin Crowns: The Budget-Friendly Option
Composite resin crowns are a cost-effective option frequently used for temporary crowns. While they are less durable and may not last as long as other materials, they can be an effective temporary fix.
Why Would I Need a Dental Crown?
Repairing a Broken or Cracked Tooth
A dental crown can help restore the shape and function of a broken or cracked tooth caused by trauma or biting on something hard.
Protecting a Weak or Decayed Tooth
Crowns can also protect teeth that have been weakened by decay, preventing further damage and helping to save the tooth.
Restoring a Severely Worn Tooth
A crown restores structure and support to severely worn teeth caused by grinding or acidic erosion, allowing for normal function.
Supporting a Dental Bridge
Dentists frequently use dental crowns with dental bridges, anchoring the bridge in place and also filling the gaps left by missing teeth.
Enhancing the Appearance of Discolored or Misshaped Tooth
Dentists can use crowns cosmetically to improve the appearance of discolored or misshaped teeth, giving them a more natural look and also boosting confidence in one’s smile.
Same-Day Dental Crowns
At Zara Dental, we provide same-day dental crowns to patients who require immediate restoration. Thanks to advanced CEREC technology, we can design, fabricate, and also place your crown in a single visit. Moreover, this procedure is highly convenient for patients who have busy schedules or want to avoid multiple dental visits. In addition, we use digital impressions and computer-aided design to ensure a perfect fit and a natural appearance.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The longevity of a dental crown depends on the material used:
- Metal crowns: 15-30 years
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) crowns: 10-15 years
- All-Porcelain and All-Ceramic crowns: 10-15 years
- Zirconia crowns: 15-20 years
- Composite resin crowns: 5-7 years.
Furthermore, several factors can influence how long your crown lasts, including oral hygiene, dietary choices, and habits such as teeth grinding. Additionally, regular dental check-ups and proper care can extend the life of your crown.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The cost of a dental crown varies depending on the material:
- Metal crowns: $800 – $2,500 per tooth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: $800 – $1,400 per tooth
- All-porcelain and all-ceramic crowns: $1,000 – $2,000 per tooth
- Zirconia crowns: $1,000 – $2,500 per tooth
- Composite resin crowns: $500 – $1,500 per tooth
Moreover, insurance coverage varies, and some plans may cover some of the cost of crowns, especially if they are medically necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Can I Whiten My Dental Crown?
No, dental crowns cannot be whitened with traditional whitening treatments. If discoloration is an issue, it may be necessary to replace the crown.
Is It Possible to Remove or Replace a Crown?
Yes, dentists can remove crowns and replace them if necessary. However, to avoid damaging the underlying tooth, only professionals should perform the removal process.
Do Crowns Require Special Dental Insurance?
Dental insurance will typically cover part of the cost if a crown is medically necessary. Nevertheless, your policy’s coverage may not extend to cosmetic crowns.
Dental crowns are an extremely effective way to restore and protect damaged teeth, and at Zara Dental in Houston, Texas, we’re here to help you find the best crown for your needs. Contact us to learn more about the options available and to determine whether a dental crown is right for you.
