A crown is like a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over an existing tooth. It is made up of different materials, including different types of metal and porcelain. It is cemented onto the existing remaining tooth structure, restoring the function and esthetic of the tooth.

Edited by Dr. Debora Nov. 2023

There are many different reasons for a crown. The most common reason a dentist will recommend a crown is when the tooth decay is too large to restore with a filling. A crown is necessary to restore the function and structure of that tooth. Also, if a root canal procedure has been completed, a crown is often recommended to restore the tooth, because the tooth is an already compromised and weakened tooth. Another reason crowns are recommended is to address esthetic concerns. There may not be any decay, but if patients want their teeth to look a certain way, a crown may be the best option.

Edited by Dr. Debora Nov. 2023

There are many different types of crowns. It depends largely on the material that is used. For example, a crown can be fully made of gold. Gold is a great material that lasts a long time. However, patients may dislike it due to the color. Therefore, it is not recommended for any front teeth, depending on patient desire. Another common material is porcelain. Porcelain is a type of glass and is commonly used due to its similar esthetic to natural teeth. It is often used in combination with other materials. For example, a PFM crown is a porcelain fused to metal crown. This combination is used to maximize the benefits of both the porcelain and metal while minimizing the downsides of using either porcelain or metal. A metal crown can be beneficial to a patient who does not have adequate remaining tooth structure, since metal crowns are minimal yet still functional. However, the downside can be the silver color, which does not match the natural aesthetic of a tooth. All in all, there are many different factors, including patient preference, for the exact type of crown that may be used in a given circumstance.

Edited by Dr. Debora Nov. 2023

The cost of a crown depends on the type of crown. Generally, the average cost of a crown can range from $700-$3500.

Edited by Dr. Debora Nov. 2023

Crowns can last up to 15 years. The longevity of a crown highly depends on patient maintenance. There are patients who have had crowns much longer than 15 years. But there are also patients whose crowns do not last even a couple years. The crown material itself is very strong, often stronger than natural teeth, and can last for around 10-15 years.

Edited by Dr. Debora Nov. 2023