Dental crowns are custom-made “caps” that restore the strength, appearance, and function of teeth that are broken, stained, or damaged by decay. They are designed to match the natural contour of your teeth and can last over 15 years with proper care. The process involves two visits: one for preparation and the second to fit and adjust the permanent crown. Costs typically range from $200 to $1200, depending on the material and complexity of the procedure. Contact us today for more information.
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” placed over a tooth that has been broken, treated with a root canal, stained, damaged by decay, or is misshapen. Crafted to match the tone and contour of your natural teeth, crowns can last over 15 years with proper care. They are also used to secure dental bridges, complete dental implants, or enhance the aesthetics of your smile.
A dental crown procedure typically requires two office visits, both performed by a dentist. Here’s the step-by-step process:
The procedure begins with a thorough dental examination, where your dentist will clean and prepare the tooth to ensure a proper fit. If the tooth is broken or severely decayed, the damaged areas will be removed to allow the crown to protect the tooth from further decay.
Next, dental putty will be used to take an impression of your teeth, which is sent to our lab to create your custom porcelain crown. A temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth until your next visit. If you’re replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant, an impression of the implant and surrounding teeth will also be taken.
During your second appointment, the temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be fitted. The crown is securely placed using durable dental cement or a hidden screw. Finally, your dentist will polish the crown and make any necessary adjustments for comfort and fit.
The out-of-pocket cost for a dental crown can vary significantly depending on the individual case. With a typical insurance plan, a single crown generally costs between $200 to $600+. Without insurance, the cost typically ranges from $800 to $1200 or more. While a dental crown is often an easy decision for restoring both the appearance and function of your teeth, the cost may still raise questions.
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Whether a crown is needed after a root canal depends on the tooth’s location. Molars and premolars, which are used for chewing, typically require crowns for strength and protection. Incisors and canines, which are less involved in chewing, may not always need crowns.
Crowns are generally more durable than fillings, especially for teeth with a large biting surface. The repeated pressure from chewing or clenching can cause fillings on molars to chip or come loose, while a crown provides a single, unbroken surface that can withstand more force over time.
Dental crowns are designed to restore both the function and appearance of your teeth. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in colour and contour, so much so that it can be difficult to tell which tooth has the crown.
A dental post is a medical-grade post placed into a prepared root canal to reinforce the base and core of a dental crown. It is used when there is insufficient healthy tooth structure left to hold the crown securely.
Getting a crown generally feels similar to getting a filling. We ensure the area is properly numbed before the procedure, so you should not feel pain. Afterward, you may experience some sensitivity or soreness in the gums around the tooth, but this is temporary. If you feel anxious, let us know—our team will make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Dental crowns can last up to 15 years with proper care. With excellent maintenance, they can last 25-30 years.
Care for your dental crown just like a natural tooth. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dentist visits will keep your crown and surrounding gum tissue healthy. Regular check-ups ensure long-term oral health and crown maintenance.
