Perfectly Seamless Tooth Restoration
A dental crown, or “cap,” is placed over a tooth that is broken, treated by root canal, stained, damaged by decay, or misshapen, and is carefully crafted to match the tone and shape of your natural teeth, often lasting over 15 years; crowns can also support dental bridges, complete implants, or enhance aesthetics.
What’s the process of getting a crown?
The dental crown process typically involves two office visits, performed by a dentist:
Examining and Preparing the Tooth
The process starts with a dental examination and cleaning to prepare the tooth for a crown. If the tooth is damaged or decayed, any affected areas are removed to ensure the crown fits properly and protects the tooth.
Shaping the Crown
An impression of your teeth is made using dental putty to create a custom porcelain crown. Until your next visit, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth. For those needing a dental implant, impressions of the implant and surrounding teeth are taken to craft the crown.
Placing the Crown
During the second visit, the temporary crown is replaced with a permanent one, secured with strong dental cement or a hidden screw. The crown is polished, and any adjustments are made for a comfortable fit.
Cost of Dental Crowns in Orleans
The cost of a dental crown can vary significantly based on your individual needs. With insurance, the out-of-pocket expense typically ranges from $200 to $600+, while without coverage, a single crown might cost between $800 to $1200 or more.
- The type and material of the crown
- The location and complexity of the procedure
- The number of crowns needed
- Whether the crown is combined with other appliances like bridges
- Supplies and equipment required for the treatment
Though many find the benefits of a crown worth the investment, understanding the factors that influence the cost can be helpful:
It’s essential to have an in-person consultation for an accurate quote since every smile is unique. We can also provide a quote to submit to your dental insurance, helping you understand your potential out-of-pocket costs before making a decision.
Contact us today
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether a crown is needed after a root canal depends on the tooth’s location. Molars and premolars, which handle more chewing pressure, often require crowns. However, front teeth like incisors and canines, not used as much for chewing, may not need a crown.
Crowns are generally more durable than fillings, especially for teeth with larger biting surfaces. Fillings can chip or loosen under the pressure of chewing or clenching, while crowns, covering the tooth entirely from gumline to gumline, are designed to withstand more force and last longer.
Dental crowns are crafted to fully restore your tooth’s function, allowing you to chew comfortably without pain. They are also contoured and shaded to match your natural teeth, blending seamlessly into your smile—often making it easy to forget which tooth has the crown.
A dental post is not the same as a dental implant; it is a medical-grade post cemented into a root canal to reinforce a dental crown. It’s only used when there isn’t enough natural tooth structure left to securely hold the crown.
Getting a crown is similar to receiving a filling. The area is numbed, and any necessary freezing is done to ensure comfort. Post-procedure, you may experience some gum sensitivity or soreness, which is usually short-lived. If you’re anxious about dental visits, let us know—we’re here to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Dental crowns typically last up to 15 years, but with proper care, they can last anywhere from 25 to 30 years.
Caring for a dental crown is similar to maintaining a natural tooth: regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are key to keeping both the crown and surrounding gums healthy.