Dental Crowns: Types, Procedure Overview, and Costs

Damaged teeth can leave anyone feeling uncomfortable, regardless of the cause of the damage. The damage to the teeth could be in the form of a deep cavity, or your teeth might suffer from an injury that could cause them to break, affecting your appearance.

Formation of tooth cavities is the primary reason for damaged teeth. Even getting fillings will not solve the issue with the appearance of a broken tooth. It affects your confidence and self-esteem. In such cases, dental crowns can be your saviour. Dental crowns are a perfect solution to getting back your gorgeous smile. Even though the process can be lengthy, you can still sigh in relief because you wouldn’t have to live with broken, chipped, or damaged teeth.

In this guide, we’ll learn everything you need to know about dental crowns before and after the procedure. With the help of this information, you can also find out if dental crowns are the right choice for you.

A] What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are simply caps for your damaged teeth. These are shaped like your teeth and act as a protective cover for your damaged teeth. People opt for dental crown treatment to restore their tooth’s shape, size, and strength. These also help enhance the appearance of your teeth and fix your smile.

Even if you have weak teeth, prone to cracks and breaking, a crown can be your saviour. First, your dentist would suggest you get a crown treatment just in time to avoid any possibility of further damage to your teeth. Then, your dentist would place the crown and cement it in the affected area to make it as natural as possible.

But the question is whether a dental crown treatment in Sunshine Coast is ideal for you. Let’s find who is a perfect candidate for a tooth crown.

B] Who Should Opt For Dental Crowns?

The following people can opt for a tooth cap.

• Those struggling with weak teeth are always at risk of developing a cavity in one or more teeth.
• People struggling with broken or chipped teeth can choose to undergo a dental capping procedure.
• If you have undergone a dental implant, you will need dental capping to prevent it from being too obvious.
• People with discoloured teeth can opt for a tooth crown.
• Dental crowns would be the best way to cover the tooth after a root canal treatment, so it doesn’t get damaged further.
• It is also an ideal treatment for those having a large filling.

Dental crowns are a perfect way to get past these troubles and lead a comfortable life. A timely treatment after getting your dentist’s advice is the best way out of these problems.

There are several crown types with which your dentist might acquaint you. Let us cover some of the leading dental crown types so that you visit your dentist’s clinic well-informed.

These are the common types of dental crowns, and your dentist might suggest you get one. However, it solely depends upon the intensity of the tooth damage you suffer.

1. Porcelain Crowns:

Porcelain crowns are most popular due to their naturally appearing look, giving them the best option for front teeth because they can look natural and have the same texture. The crowns are made of porcelain, a tough ceramic material that does not stain. They precisely match the neighbouring teeth and brighten the smile with aesthetic improvements.

2. Metal Crowns:

Metal crowns come in different types, such as gold, silver and platinum. They are strong and durable. These kinds are traditionally installed on molar teeth, which withstand high chewing forces. The look can be a bit more noticeable than others, but in terms of strength, there will be no worry about these materials.

3. Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns:

combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. This metal-based crown is added with strength and support to porcelain coating dental crown with the right tone of colour texture, like natural teeth. Its versatility makes it fit in both front and back teeth, giving a balanced solution between strength and appearance.

4. All-ceramic crowns:

All ceramic crowns are made from 100% ceramic materials and are thus aesthetically delightful. Exactly like your normal teeth, these crowns have that natural translucency. This type of crown is best known for its cosmetic superiority and excellent ability to match natural teeth' colour and texture. It provides an aesthetic and long-lasting dental restoration, suitable for most anterior teeth.

5. Zirconia Crowns: 

It is the best option because their crowns are used in front and back teeth, representing more strength for high-durability demand. These are generally made using zirconium oxide, a very strong type of ceramic with great wear and fracture resistance. Zirconia crowns have a long, predictable lifespan, providing a restoration against the strains of use and chewing on a day-to-day basis.

C] Dental Crowns Procedure

In dental crown preparation, the dentist in sunshine coast would first tooth impression and send it to the lab, which will create a dental crown based on the impression collected. Meanwhile, a dentist will place a temporary crown on your damaged tooth to protect it until a permanent one is ready.

Same-day Procedure

Some people have time constraints and cannot be available for more than one sitting. Same-procedure are ideal for such patients. If the dentist has the equipment to create a dental crown in house, then it will take about three hours to fabricate the dental crown.

• Upon your visit to the dental clinic, they will examine your affected tooth by taking a digital picture of your tooth.
• After examining the tooth and checking for any signs of infections, they will prepare the dental crown with computer aided manufacturing.
• Once the crown is ready, the dentist will fix the dental crown to your tooth with dental cement.

 

Before placing the crown on your tooth, the dentist will treat any decay that needs treatment. They will also file and shape your teeth, if necessary. The same-day procedures involve the preparation of the crowns with the help of CAD/CAM. Computer-aided design and manufacturing help dentists prepare the crown in less than 15 minutes.

Multi-day Procedure

• When you first visit your dentist with a damaged tooth, he will take an X-ray of your tooth. He will examine the tooth and look at the surrounding teeth. He also checks if there is any risk of infections and injury to other teeth.
• If there is extreme damage to your tooth, your dentist might have to give you a preliminary treatment. Usually, this involves a root canal treatment.
• Now, the dentist will tell you about the different dental crowns available and also recommend one that would be the right fit for you. They will also see if there is a need to file your other teeth to make everything look orderly. Usually, the tooth undergoing treatment needs to be filed from the sides to make space for the crown.
• As we have mentioned before, initially, the dentist will prepare and place a temporary crown on your tooth.
• Next, your dentist will conduct an intraoral scan of your mouth to see if everything is in place. This scanning also ensures that you don’t suffer any bite issues.
• Once this gets done, the dentist sends your dental impression to the lab.
• On your second and final visit to the dentist, he will place a permanent crown on your damaged tooth.

 

As one of the best dentists in the sunshine coast, we suggest the procedure should be done in at least two visits.

D] Dental Crown Aftercare

Dental Crowns are also used to improve the appearance of teeth and protect weakened teeth from further damage. After getting a dental crown, it is important to take proper care of the crowns to ensure the longevity and health of the crown. Don’t miss any visits, since it's crucial for dental crowns' optimal condition. 

1. You May Experience Anaesthetic Numbness After The Procedure

After the procedure is performed, you may experience some anaesthetic numbness in the treated area. This is a common aftereffect of the procedure. It's essential to be cautious during this time to avoid accidentally biting or injuring your cheek, lips, or tongue while they are still numb. 

Be careful of your eating and drinking habits, and avoid hot beverages or foods until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental burns.

2. Avoid Certain Foods During The First 24 Hours

Once the dental crown has been placed and the numbing effect of the anaesthetic has worn off, the patient would be able to chew any food normally. However, it's best to avoid hard, crunchy, sticky and chewy food during the first 24 hours of the procedure to allow the crown to securely cement to the abutment tooth. This will ensure that your dental crown lasts longer. 

3. Take Proper Care Of Your Teeth And Dental Crown

Proper oral care is crucial after getting a dental crown. So make sure you:

• Start brushing twice a day diligently with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and ensure the crown's longevity. 
• Flossing is equally important for food particle removal between teeth. 
• If you are facing challenges while brushing or flossing, consult with your dentist for alternative cleaning methods. 

 

Keep in mind, crowns can still be vulnerable to decay, especially near the gum line therefore it's important to keep the gum line clean. 

If you are wondering how long do crowns usually last, then remember that well-maintained crowns usually last around 15 years on average. However, with proper care, they can last for around 25-30 years. 

4. Take The Pain Medicines Prescribed By Your Dentist

Experiencing some pain or discomfort after the dental crown procedure is normal, and typically it improves without any specific treatment. However, most dentists will prescribe pain medications after the procedure and request you to take them if you are in pain once the anaesthetic has worn down. So, you can take the prescribed analgesic medication to reduce the pain and ease recovery. 

It's common to feel some sensitivity in the gums around the treated area due to dental cement irritation. Therefore taking pain relievers like ibuprofen or using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help alleviate this discomfort.

5. Go To All Scheduled Dental Visits

In order to ensure the dental crown lasts longer you should go for regular dental checkups and cleanings. Brushing and flossing between appointments help, but professional cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and biofilm from hard-to-reach areas. Your dentist will monitor and address any issues promptly. 

Following good oral hygiene and advice from your dentist ensures the ongoing success of your dental crown and overall oral health. Don’t miss any visits, since it's crucial for dental crowns' optimal condition. If you are looking for a dentist in Kawana, Caloundra or Maroochydore, we are here to help!

E] Benefits And Risk Of Dental Crown Procedure

Dental crowns procedure can treat worn, broken, or decayed teeth and protect them from erosion, improve chewing, and enhance appearance. However, there are also some risks and benefits of dental crown to consider which are as follows:

1. Benefits Of Dental Crowns

• Dental Crowns Protect Damaged Tooth

 

Dental crowns are often used to cover and protect teeth that have suffered significant damage or decay. They act as a "cap" that covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, preventing further harm and reinforcing its structural integrity.

• Dental Crowns help Restore Tooth Strength

 

Teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching can lead to significant wear on the tooth's surface over time. Dental crowns can help restore the tooth's strength and protect it from further damage caused by these habits.

• Dental Crowns Improve Aesthetics

 

Dental crowns not only fix damaged teeth but also make your smile look better. With materials like porcelain and ceramic, they cover stains, chips, or cracks and effectively restore your teeth to a fresh and renewed state. With their ability to create a straight and uniform look, dental crowns offer you the confidence of a beautiful and healthy smile.

• Dental Crowns Offer Support & Stability For Loose Teeth

 

Dental crowns offer vital support and stability for loose teeth, easing discomfort and averting further damage. They are custom-made to fit seamlessly over your existing tooth, and blend harmoniously into your smile. 

Beyond these benefits, the dental crown maintains proper alignment of adjacent teeth and safeguards against harmful bacteria, fostering overall oral health. Consult your dentist to discover how a dental crown can be the perfect solution for a loose or damaged tooth, ensuring a healthier, happier smile for the long term.

2. Risks Associated With Dental Crowns

Like any procedure, the dental crown procedure also has risks associated with. You need to be aware of these risks before you get the procedure done. Your dental care provider will definitely describe these to you.  Choosing a right dental provider can help reduce these risks and ensure better outcomes from your procedure:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
• Allergic reactions to materials used in the crown.
• Discomfort or pain, especially if the fit is not ideal.
• Risk of tooth decay around the edges of the crown.
• Chipping or fracturing of the crown.
• Temporary nerve irritation or inflammation.
• Colour mismatch with natural teeth.
• Rare need for root canal treatment due to pulp damage.

 

F] How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?

The type of dental crown and its cost go hand in hand. The cost of dental crowns depends on the type of crown material you choose and where you plan on getting the treatment done. At OrisDental, a porcelain tooth crown costs around $1500. However, if you want to talk about other crowns, don’t hesitate to contact us. In the meantime you can also check dental fees for other procedures on our website. 

G] Finding the Right Dentist for a Dental Crown in Sunshine Coast

Choosing the right dentist is as important as choosing the right dental crown. If you live in Sunshine Coast then you are well aware about the importance of finding a good local dentist. With numerous options available, it's essential to consider all the factors before you pick a dentist. 

• Start by looking for a dentist with extensive experience and a proven track record in performing dental crown procedures. 
• Go through patient reviews and testimonials to gauge their reputation and patient satisfaction.
• Consider the dentist's qualifications and credentials, ensuring they are licensed and affiliated with reputable dental associations. 
• Make sure your dentist uses the latest technology and materials for dental crowns. This will ensure better outcomes and long-lasting results.

 

Don't hesitate to schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and ask any questions. A great dentist will provide personalised care, address your concerns, and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and budget.

Conclusion

There is no need to struggle with the dental issues that arise due to decayed or damaged teeth. You can opt for a dental crown treatment to restore your damaged teeth and confidence. Dental crowns are affordable as long as you choose the type that fits your budget well.

Your dentist will fix a dental crown on your tooth that will look exactly like your natural teeth. A dental crown cost will depend on many factors including the area in which you reside. Usually, you can get done with the treatment within $1,500.

If you are looking to get dental crowns treatment in the sunshine coast, you can reach out to Oris Dental. We can help you find the right type of dental crown for your dental issues.

Once you get this treatment done, don’t forget to practise good hygiene to make it long-lasting. Dental after care is essential to all dental treatments and it includes keeping up with your dental hygiene, which includes brushing your teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash.

FAQs

Q) When would you need a dental crown?

Ans: You will need a dental crown if your original tooth is cracked, chipped or broken. Dental crowns are also required when there is too much tooth decay or if it is extremely discoloured. A tooth might also need a crown to cover a dental implant or bridge.

Q) How long does it take to feel better after a dental crown procedure?

Ans: It takes several days or weeks to feel better after a dental crown. However, there might be some discomfort and pain, which can be managed with medications.

Q) Are dental crowns permanent?

Ans: No, dental crowns are not permanent, but they can last up to a few years, depending on how you care for them.

Q) How long do crowns last?

Ans: Dental crowns last around 5 to 15 years with proper care. Its longevity depends on its care, wear and tear and other factors.

Q) How do I care for my dental crown?

Ans: Avoid eating hard, crunchy food, brush your teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Along with that, floss once every day to take care of your crown.

Q) Are dental crowns painful?

Ans: Dental crowns are not painful; you might feel a bit uncomfortable due to sensitivity, but other than that, you shouldn't have any pain. If you have pain, contact your dentist for further treatment. 

Q) Dental cap vs. crown: Is there a difference?

Ans: Dental crowns cover the entire visible part of the teeth, adding strength and protection, whereas dental caps are used for less severe cases where only a part of your tooth needs coverage.