Even if you have never been to the dentist, you have probably heard of a dental crown. Dental crowns have been a staple in dentistry for almost 2600 years, and in fact, a dental crown is a versatile tool that many cosmetic and restorative dentists use. Crowns have a variety of uses. Until recently, people who needed crowns typically opted for an alloy of gold or another metal. However, modern dentistry has changed that. People who need a crown can now get a porcelain crown. A porcelain crown functions just the same and looks even better. A porcelain crown means you don’t have to sacrifice your smile or confidence. Although most think there is only one type of crown, we must tell you, there are choices here, too!

Zirconia Crowns: A zirconia crown is a type of porcelain that contains zirconium oxide. Zirconium oxide is a non-metallic substance that is virtually unbreakable. A zirconia crown will resist breaks, chips, and stains. Another added benefit is that a zirconia crown can be color-matched so that it matches your existing teeth. Keep in mind, a zirconia crown is opaque and may not resemble real enamel, which means that this type of crown is the best fit for the back of the mouth. A zirconia crown can also have additional layers of dental porcelain, which can give it a more realistic look if it must be placed in the front of the mouth. This is a perfect choice of biocompatible material for patients who need a metal-free or nickel-free crown. Dental crowns made out of this material perfect for patients who grind or have a strong bite.

All Porcelain Crowns – As one can guess from the name, an all-porcelain crown is constructed of 100% dental ceramic. The strength and appearance of this particular crown lie in the skill of the ceramist, a dental lab technician who fabricates the crown. Some crowns may be milled from a solid block of porcelain while others have a pressed core. Those with a pressed core can also have an overlay with a more delicate type of porcelain (reflective feldspathic porcelain). This is a perfect choice of biocompatible material for patients that need a metal-free or nickel-free crown.

Porcelain fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns – A PFM crown is a crown that blends a metal substructure with a layered porcelain exterior. Together, this combination combines a realistic, life-like look, with an immense amount of durability. With age and gum recession, however, a PFM crown can begin to leave a black “rim” at the base of the crown. For some, this is not the look they want. If a patient is looking for a metal-free or nickel-free crown, this type would not be the best.

Several factors are taken into consideration when deciding which type of crown might be best for you. If you want the best looking crown, no doubt all-porcelain would be the best choice. But with an all-porcelain crown, you should remember that porcelain can stain over time, and are prone to chips and fractures.

A zirconia crown, on the other hand, is incredibly strong. So strong that at times, they have been known to cause damage to opposing teeth. In this case, zirconia crowns would not be an excellent choice for people who clench their jaws or grind their teeth. 

What about PFM crowns? This particular type of crown can work well in both the back and front of the mouth. They have a sturdy metal core that guarantees a long-lasting, stable restoration. Do keep in mind, that for anyone with any allergies, a PFM crown would not be a good choice. A zirconia crown would make a better choice instead.

Typically, the placement of all crowns is the same. On average, it takes two appointments scheduled a few weeks apart to complete.

At the first appointment, preparation of the tooth will ensure the ease of placement of your permanent crown done at a subsequent visit. Preparation includes the removal of decay, damaged portions of the tooth, or small bits of enamel. Next, an impression is taken and sent to a reputable dental lab for fabrication. There, your new crown will be made specifically for you and will fit oral anatomy that is unique to you.

Remember that this is a custom project, so creating your new crown can take some time to complete. On average, you should allow between two to four weeks. In the meantime, you will go home with a temporary crown, so you can chew and speak as you normally would.

Once the fabrication of your permanent crown has been completed, you can return for your second appointment. At this appointment, we will check shape, size, and color, and fit. If all looks well, the crown is secured into place with dental cement. Last, your bite will be assessed, making sure that everything aligns properly, If necessary, any adjustments are made at that time.

Because there are so many choices, it’s best to see someone that is well versed and can carefully explain all of your options. An extensively trained dental team will not only benefit you, the patient, but it will also benefit the longevity of your smile. You don’t have to sacrifice anything when getting a crown. There is undoubtedly an option that will work for you. Let us do all the hard work, all you have to do is smile!

While the crown itself should not be painful, there may however be some localized sensitivity after the procedure. Having some sensitivity and tenderness is very common, and with time, it will subside.

On average, it takes roughly two weeks to get a permanent crown. A permanent crown is made at an off-site lab and does take some time to fabricate because it is custom to fit your mouth. In the meantime, you will go home with a temporary crown, so that you are still able to chew and speak well.

Crowns can come off, and in some cases, a crown may become loose and fall off because of decay that has occurred underneath the crown. If there is extensive decay, the structure that once held that crown tightly in place no longer exists.

If a crown does not fit properly or is not cleaned regularly, plaque and bacteria can enter and cause cavities underneath the crown. When this happens, the crown will need to be replaced. The best way to avoid common problems with dental crowns is to ensure that it fits perfectly not leaving any space between the tooth and the dental crown as well as brushing and flossing daily.

A permanent crown may feel a bit strange at first. Also, the tooth that received a crown may be sensitive. Any of these “strange” feelings should quickly subside within a week after the mouth has time to adapt to the new crown.

The cost estimate for a dental crown depends on certain factors, the types of materials used, your dental insurance plan and the dentist you see. If you are looking for a better estimate for your dental crown, consider scheduling your consultation with one of our affordable dentists at one of our convenient dental clinics in Lincoln, NE. Our Lincoln dental clinic accepts all major insurances and we offer flexible payment options for patients.

If you do not have dental insurance, no problem! We offer dental payment plans.

If you do have dental insurance, most plans cover about 50 % of the cost of dental crowns. Schedule your appointment 24/7 online to see us and we could give you get an exact estimate for your dental crown.