Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer a reliable way to restore the strength, function, and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. These custom-made restorations are designed to fit securely over the visible portion of the tooth, providing reinforcement while helping the tooth blend naturally with the rest of your smile. Crowns are often recommended for teeth that have experienced significant decay, fractures, or wear, or for protecting a tooth after root canal therapy. They also serve as the final step for dental implant procedures.
Our cosmetic dentist in Fayetteville, Dr. Scott Bell, can evaluate your needs and determine whether a dental crown is the most appropriate solution.
Dental Crowns at a Glance
- Benefits:
- Restores tooth strength and function; protects weakened or fractured teeth; can improve shape, alignment, and overall appearance.
- Potential Candidates:
- Individuals with teeth affected by large cavities, cracks, fractures, or significant wear-and-tear, as well as patients requiring root canal therapy or dental implants, are often good candidates for dental crowns.
- Procedure:
- Typically completed over two appointments; involves shaping the tooth, making an impression of a digital scan, and placing a custom crown.
- Recovery:
- Minimal downtime; mild sensitivity may briefly occur.
- Results:
- Crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting with proper care.
- Dentist:
- Dr. Scott Bell has many years of experience in restorative dentistry and routinely places custom crowns tailored to each patient’s needs.
Am I a Candidate for a Dental Crown?
You may be a candidate for a dental crown if a tooth is weakened, damaged, or severely decayed and needs additional support. Crowns are commonly recommended when a large filling is no longer sufficient, after root canal therapy, or to repair a cracked, broken, or worn-down tooth.
In some cases, crowns are placed on dental implants or used to anchor a dental bridge. To determine if a crown is the right solution for you, Dr. Bell can evaluate the health of your tooth, the amount of remaining structure, and your overall oral health.
Dental Crowns vs. Porcelain Veneers
Dental crowns and porcelain veneers are both popular treatments, but they serve different purposes. A dental crown covers the entire tooth to restore strength, shape, and function when a tooth is severely damaged, weakened, or decayed. Crowns are often recommended after a root canal or when a large portion of the tooth structure is compromised.
Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, are thin shells bonded to the front and side surfaces of a tooth. They are primarily used for cosmetic improvements, such as correcting discoloration, minor chips, small gaps, or slightly uneven teeth.
Ultimately, crowns may be best for restoring damaged teeth, while veneers are generally ideal for enhancing the appearance of otherwise healthy teeth.
What Does the Dental Crown Procedure Involve?
The process begins with an examination to determine whether a crown is the most ideal treatment. Once confirmed, the tooth is reshaped to allow space for the restoration. An impression of a digital scan is then made so that a dental laboratory can create a precisely fitted crown that looks and feels as natural as possible. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the customized version is ready.
At the follow-up visit, the temporary crown is removed and the final crown is carefully adjusted for proper fit, bite, and appearance. Once everything is aligned comfortably, the crown is securely bonded to the tooth.
Is There a Recovery Process After Dental Crown Placement?
Most patients return to normal activities right away. Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure is common for a short period as the tooth adjusts to the new restoration. Good brushing and flossing habits help maintain gum health around the crown and support long-term success.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are built to be durable, and many last well over a decade with consistent home care and routine checkups. Avoiding habits such as crunching ice or chewing hard objects can help prevent damage to the crown. With proper maintenance, crowns can provide strong, dependable function for many years.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The cost of a dental crown in the Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas area typically averages between approximately $1,000 to $1800 and could be more or less depending on several factors. These include the material used, the complexity of the procedure, whether preparatory treatments are needed, and the technology or techniques used. The location of the tooth being treated may also influence the cost, since crowns for front teeth often prioritize appearance while molars typically require greater strength.
After your consultation, our team can provide you with an estimated quote based on your individual treatment plan. Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for dental crowns when they are primarily utilized for restorative dental care. We also offer financing options for qualified applicants to help make treatment costs more manageable with convenient monthly payments.
Key Takeaways
- Dental crowns can help restore strength, function, and appearance by covering the visible portion of a damaged or weakened tooth.
- They are commonly recommended for teeth with severe decay, fractures, large fillings, or after root canal therapy.
- Crowns can provide both functional and cosmetic benefits, helping protect vulnerable teeth while improving shape, color, and overall smile aesthetics.
- This procedure is typically completed in two visits, involving tooth preparation, impressions or digital scans, and placement of a custom crown.
- With proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits, crowns can be durable restorations that last many years.
If you would like more information about dental crowns and restorative treatments, or if you are ready to schedule an appointment, please contact Bell Dental today.