Dental Crowns at Merit Dental

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a common dental procedure, but what is it exactly?

A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth and restores its shape, size, and strength. The crown fully encases the visible portion of the tooth and is cemented into place, providing a stable and durable solution for damaged teeth.

Dental crowns come in various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and composite resin. Each material has pros and cons. The choice often depends on the patient’s specific needs and preferences.

What’s a Dental Crown’s Role in Oral Health?

Dental crowns play a significant role in oral health, as they’re a solution for damaged or decayed teeth.

By covering the damaged tooth, a crown can prevent further decay. It can also protect the tooth from breakage. Dental crowns can also restore the function of the tooth. They allow for normal eating and speaking.

Additionally, crowns can improve the appearance of the tooth by covering up discoloration and misshapenness, enhancing your smile.

What Are the Types of Dental Crowns

Several types of dental crowns are available. The type you choose can depend on various factors, such as the tooth’s location, the color of the surrounding teeth, and the patient’s personal preference.

The most common types of dental crowns are made from the following materials:

• Composite resin dental crowns: Composite crowns are great on a budget and can match your natural tooth color. However, they are the most fragile of all dental crowns .
• Ceramic dental crowns: These crowns are the most economical of the group and are easy for your dentist to match with your natural tooth color. The downside is they are not as durable as other materials. 
• Porcelain dental crowns: Porcelain crowns or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can also match your natural teeth. Their big draw is that they are much more durable than ceramic crowns because they combine the great look of porcelain laid on top of metal. The downside is they are pricier than ceramic and may show a metal line near their base if your gums recede.  
• Metal dental crowns: These are made from gold, palladium, nickel, and chromium. While their color stands out, making them best suited outside your smile line, they offer great durability, making them excellent options for molars. 

Your Merit Dental dentist near you can help you determine which crown material and best for your situation and budget..

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

Getting a dental crown involves several steps. The process begins with a consultation with a Merit Dental dental professional so they can examine your teeth and determine if a dental crown is the best solution for you.

If the dentist recommends a dental crown, they will discuss the different types of crowns and help you choose the best material for your specific needs. The next step is the dental crown procedure itself. This involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and fitting the crown. After the procedure, proper aftercare and maintenance are crucial to ensure the longevity of your dental crown.

Consultation and Treatment Planning

The consultation is an important part of the process. It allows the dentist to assess your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and review the pros and cons of each type of dental crown.

The dentist will also provide a treatment plan, which outlines the steps involved in getting a dental crown.

The Dental Crown Procedure

Getting a dental crown usually involves two visits. The first visit is for tooth preparation and impression taking. During this visit, the dentist will reshape the tooth to make room for the crown and then then take an impression of the reshapened tooth.

The dentist sends the impression to a dental lab, which uses it to create a custom crown. The dentist will install a temporary crown to protect your tooth while waiting for the permanent crown to come from the lab.

During the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and fit and cement the permanent crown. They will ensure it fits properly and matches your other teeth.

Dental Crown Aftercare and Maintenance

After getting a dental crown, proper care is essential, including regular brushing and flossing. It’s also important to avoid hard foods, as these can damage the crown. Regular dental checkups are also crucial. These allow the dentist to monitor the condition of the crown and make any necessary adjustments.

Cost and Insurance Considerations for Dental Crowns

The cost of dental crowns near you, can vary based on several factors, including the type of crown and the dentist’s expertise. It’s important to get a detailed cost estimate before the procedure so you can plan your budget accordingly.

Understanding the Cost of Dental Crown Near You

The cost of a dental crown can range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars. The material of the crown is a major factor in the cost. Additional necessary procedures, like root canals, can also affect the cost. It’s important to discuss these potential costs with your dentist.

Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best. Consider the longevity and quality of the crown when evaluating cost.

Insurance and Payment Options

Dental insurance often covers at least part of the cost of a dental crown . It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage. You can also contact a Merit Dental office near you, and we’d be happy to review your coverage with you.

If you’re uninsured, Merit Dental still has options for you. First, we accept all major credit cards and CareCredit. We also offer financing options that allow you to spread the cost over a period of time.

There’s also the Merit Dental Essential Smile Plan dental membership that can reduce the cost of certain procedures by 20-50%.

Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Dental Crown

Choosing the right dentist for your dental crown is crucial. Let’s review what to look for in a dentist who can perform a dental crown near you. 

Experience and Technology

Look for a dentist with extensive experience in dental crowns . They should be familiar with the latest techniques and materials. The dentist’s technology is also important, as advanced technology can lead to more accurate fittings and better results. During your consultation, ask about the dentist’s experience and technology. This can help you make an informed decision.

At Merit Dental our dentists have years of experience with dental crowns , so you know you’ll get top-notch dental crowns near you.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights, as they can give you a sense of the dentist’s skill and patient care. Don’t just look at the rating, though. Read the reviews to understand the patient’s experience and any responses to see how the dental office handled any issues.

Remember, everyone’s experience is unique. Use reviews as one of many factors in your decision.

Check out Merit Dental’s reviews online. You’ll be pleased to see our patients love us and our staff. 

Get Top-Notch Dental Crowns at Merit Dental

Choosing the right dentist to perform a dental crown involves several considerations. From finding one with the experience and training needed to one who offers the payment terms you need.

Remember, the goal is to improve your oral health and smile, so make your decision with care and confidence.

With the right information and dentist, you can find the perfect dentist to perform a dental crown near you. Fortunately, you’ve already found the best dental crown dentist at Merit Dental. So, schedule your initial consultation today to get started.