Dental crowns are versatile appliances that restore normal chewing function and preserve natural teeth from extraction. A new dental crown represents an investment in oral health and quality of life.
Typically, dental crowns in Lodi, NJ, range between $800 and $1,600. The cost depends on the materials used and the crown's location.
About Dental Crowns
A dental crown resembles a cap that fits over a prepared natural tooth. Crowns can restore teeth that have sustained damage due to decay or breakage. They also protect teeth that have had root canals.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
- Provide functional as well as aesthetic benefits
- Restore teeth that may otherwise need extraction
- Protect against further damage from decay
- Reinforce broken or weak teeth that may break or chip
Available Materials
Today, patients have several material choices for dental crowns:
Gold Alloys
Gold alloys make the strongest crowns. They have a distinctive appearance, which many patients prefer in the back of the mouth. Gold is an excellent material choice for patients with bruxism (chronic teeth grinding).
Metal Alloys
Metal alloys are highly versatile and are also useful for molars and premolars. Most patients prefer to keep them in the back of the mouth for aesthetic purposes.
Ceramic
Ceramic crowns look natural and provide great strength and performance. Patients prefer them for the front teeth.
Porcelain Fused to Metal
A fused crown has the appearance of porcelain and the strength of metal.
The Process of Installing a Dental Crown
Getting a dental crown is a comfortable, routine procedure. Your dentist will take digital X-rays to assess the tooth and determine how much damage it has sustained.
The next step is providing local anesthetic to prevent discomfort. The dentist carefully prepares the tooth and removes broken, decayed areas to create a smooth surface for the crown.
Conventional or digital impressions help the dentist design your final crown. Your dentist will provide a temporary version to wear until the final restoration arrives from the laboratory. The dentist will then cement the crown and check its fit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Who is a good candidate for a dental crown?
- Patients with decayed teeth too damaged for a filling to repair
- Patients with weak or discolored teeth
- Patients who have undergone root canals
How long do dental crowns last?
Generally, dental crowns last between five and 15 years, though they can last for decades if well-maintained.
Call Dental Associates of Lodi
If you have a compromised tooth, it's best to visit your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
If we determine that you need a dental crown, we can help you select the optimal material and secure your tooth for the future. Please call our Lodi, NJ, office at 862-247-8030 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Liao.
