Your guide to tooth-preserving dental crowns
At Smile Today Dental in Glenview, Illinois, our diverse and experienced team is privileged to work with so many different types of patients to protect the health and attractiveness of their teeth and gums. Throughout our patients’ lives, however, new challenges to their oral health can present themselves. Fortunately, we have the tools and know-how to restore teeth to health, function, and beauty promptly and adeptly. We do so with the likes of dental restorations, such as crowns.
Crown candidates
Our natural teeth are designed with crowns and an intricate system that can’t be seen in the smile. Crowns are the white, visible part of the tooth. Underneath each tooth’s protective enamel and softer dentin layer is a system of nerves, blood vessels, pulp tissue, and root canals. Teeth can be damaged and potentially lost due to tooth decay and gum disease. The first stage of decay, enamel erosion, may be resolved with oral hygiene modifications. More extensive cavities or holes in the teeth can be repaired with restorations known as “fillings,” which quite literally “fill in” the cavity or hole. Teeth with more significant damage may require dental crowns. The crown provides more “coverage.” Large fillings may inadequately support the tooth, leaving it vulnerable to future fractures. So, more appropriate treatment may be the dental crown in cases where big fillings are not an attractive, long-term option.
Also, crowns often follow root canal therapy to resolve decay that affects the pulp tissue at the tooth’s centre. The crown is the finishing touch following root canal treatment to preserve the natural tooth.
Crowns may also be used for tooth replacement:
- To support the pontic or replacement tooth in a conventional bridge.
- To restore a tooth following the placement of an implant, which “roots” the crown or replacement teeth to the jawbone.
The process
Our dentists, Drs Evelyn Kidonakis, Jinyoung Yoo, and Amir Danesh, will discuss options for treatment after examining your teeth and gums and talking about your preferences and goals. We use the most sophisticated diagnostics to inform treatment recommendations, such as digital imaging and intraoral cameras. If crowns are recommended, we will also discuss the materials used to make your new tooth structure.
Crowns may be fabricated from metals, such as gold, or dental ceramics, such as porcelain. The materials that are used to make your crown depend on factors like the location of the tooth. That material is later fabricated by skilled lab technicians, who use detailed and accurate information that we collect about your tooth and the surrounding teeth.
Once the crown is ready, we check that it fits and make adjustments as needed before cementing it securely in place. Additionally, the permanent crown is only added after the natural tooth has been “prepared” and damaged tissue has been removed. Active infections must also be cleared. While your tooth is healing, a temporary crown is placed. That also helps protect the prepared tooth while our quality dental lab is making the permanent.
Please do not wait for problems such as pain to arise before scheduling an appointment at our Glenview practice. Call us today at 847-440-3331. The earlier we can intervene with the decay or disease process, the more of your natural tooth we can preserve. Minimal alteration generally means a faster, less traumatic treatment experience.
Dental Crown FAQs
How much does a crown cost in Illinois?
In Illinois, the cost of a dental crown can range from $800 to $3,000 per tooth. This price variation depends on the type of crown material used and the complexity of the procedure. At Smile Today Dental, we offer porcelain crowns, which tend to be more expensive than metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns that other dental offices may offer. Depending on your specific plan, dental insurance may cover part of the cost. It’s advisable to consult with our team for precise estimates and to check with your insurance provider about coverage details.
Are crowns very expensive?
Porcelain and ceramic crowns are typically more costly than metal crowns due to their aesthetic appeal and durability. Dental insurance may cover part of the cost, reducing the out-of-pocket expense. Despite the high cost, crowns are a worthwhile investment for restoring tooth function and appearance.
What is the cost of crowns for teeth?
The cost of dental crowns for teeth varies widely, typically ranging from $800 to $3,000 per tooth. Factors influencing the cost include the material used (such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal), the tooth’s location, and the dental practice’s fees. Porcelain and ceramic crowns, which offer a more natural appearance, are generally more expensive than metal crowns. Dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, so it is important to verify coverage with your provider. Consulting with our team will provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
How long do crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last 5-10 years but can last longer with proper care. The lifespan of a crown depends on the material used, the location in the mouth, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are durable but can be prone to chipping, while metal crowns are more resistant to wear. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and avoiding habits like grinding teeth or chewing hard objects can help extend the life of a crown.
Which crown is best for teeth?
The best type of crown for teeth depends on several factors, including the tooth’s location, the patient’s aesthetic preferences, and budget. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns provide a good balance between strength and aesthetics, suitable for both front and back teeth. Metal crowns, including gold, offer excellent durability and are often used for molars.
Is it painful to get a crown?
Having a crown placed is generally not painful. We use local anesthesia so that the patient doesn’t experience any discomfort for the duration of the procedure. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort as the tooth is prepared and the crown is placed. After the anesthesia wears off, there may be slight sensitivity or discomfort for a few days. This pain can be minimized using pain relievers purchased over the counter. If significant pain persists, it’s important to contact the dentist.
Which crown looks natural?
Porcelain and ceramic crowns are known for their natural appearance, making them ideal for front teeth. These crowns can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, providing a seamless look. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns also offer a natural appearance while providing additional strength, suitable for both front and back teeth. Full ceramic crowns are particularly popular for their lifelike translucency and color, closely mimicking natural tooth enamel. Consulting with your dentist will help determine the best option for achieving a natural-looking result.
Dr. Evelyn Kidonakis has been treating patients for over 30 years. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois Chicago College and its School of Dentistry and the Levin, Crabtree, and Practice Growth Institute Programs. She is educated and has hands-on training in areas such as direct cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers and Lumineers, Invisalign orthodontics, occlusion, and facially-generated treatment planning. Dr. Kidonakis is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
Dr. Jinyoung “Anny” Yoo has studied at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, and New York University Langone Dental Medicine in San Diego, CA. She has received hands-on training in Botulinum toxin and training in Invisalign orthodontics. Dr. Yoo holds membership in the ADA, Chicago Dental Society, and Illinois State Dental Society and a Fellowship in the AGD.
