Dental Crowns in Englewood, CO

Dental Crowns: Treat Your Teeth Like Royalty

Dental crowns restore damaged or decayed teeth, helping countless patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Crowns can be made from various materials and are custom-made to fit each patient’s unique needs, often mimicking the appearance of a natural tooth.

At our Englewood, CO dental office, our cosmetic dentists offer dental crowns to meet your oral health needs. Learn more about dental crowns and discover if this solution is the right fit for your smile by calling 303-795-3517!

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns, or caps or tooth crowns, are prosthetic devices placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their function, shape, and appearance. They’re custom-made to fit over the entire tooth, from the gum line to the chewing surface, and are made of porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. Dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with other teeth for a natural look.

A dental crown can also be used on top of a dental implant, to support a dental bridge, or act as a cosmetic solution to improve the appearance of teeth.

When Is a Dental Crown Necessary?

There are multiple dental issues that a crown can fix. Our Englewood, CO dentist may recommend a dental crown for various reasons, including:

Protecting a Weak Tooth: If a tooth has been weakened by decay, a large filling, or a root canal, a dental crown can provide additional support and prevent the tooth from breaking.
Restoring a Broken or Damaged Tooth: A dental crown can restore a tooth that has been broken, cracked, or severely worn down.
Covering a Dental Implant: After a dental implant is placed, a dental crown is often used to cover the implant and create a natural-looking tooth replacement.
Supporting a Dental Bridge: A crown can support a dental bridge to replace missing teeth.
Improving the Appearance of a Tooth: Dental crowns can be used as a cosmetic solution to improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or poorly spaced teeth.
Preserving Enamel of Adjacent Teeth: Certain dental crowns, such as zirconia and porcelain-fused-to-metal, are gentler on opposing teeth, helping preserve the enamel of adjacent teeth.

man smiling while sitting in the dental chair

Signs You Need Dental Crowns

Some signs that you may need a dental crown include:

Tooth pain or sensitivity
A cracked or chipped tooth
A large filling that needs to be replaced
A tooth that has had a root canal
A tooth that’s misshapen or discolored

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Some of the benefits of dental crowns include:

Protection: Dental crowns can help protect weak or damaged teeth from further damage or decay.
Restoration: Dental crowns can restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth.
Durability: Dental crowns are strong and durable, and can last many years with proper care.
Versatility: Dental crowns can be used for several dental problems, from restoring a broken tooth to covering a dental implant.
Aesthetics: Dental crowns can match the color and shape of your natural teeth, creating a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing result.

If you’re wondering how dental crowns may benefit you, contact our Englewood dentist today to schedule your next appointment!

Types of Dental Crowns

There are various dental crowns, ensuring each patient receives the solution they need to restore their smile. Our Englewood, CO dentist will evaluate your options and recommend the best choice for your dental health.

Stainless Steel Crowns

One option to consider, especially in pediatric dentistry, is the stainless steel crown. These crowns are often recommended for primary teeth in children due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. Stainless steel crowns are a popular choice for restoring decayed or damaged primary teeth, providing a reliable and long-lasting solution until the permanent teeth come in. The preparation and fitting process for stainless steel crowns is straightforward, making them a convenient option for dentists and patients.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are made of a tooth-colored material that can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for front teeth. They’re biocompatible and produce a natural, lifelike appearance.

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are made of gold, nickel, or other metal alloys. They’re extremely durable, can withstand heavy biting forces, and last a long time. However, their metallic color makes them less popular for front teeth. Additionally, metal crowns may be less gentle on opposing teeth compared to other materials.

Porcelain-fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)

PFM crowns are made by fusing a metal base with a porcelain coating, providing the strength of the metal and the aesthetics of the porcelain. They can be used for both front and back teeth. PFM crowns provide a balance of strength and aesthetics, and they are designed to be gentle on opposing teeth.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are made of a durable, biocompatible material resistant to chipping and cracking. They can be matched to the color of your natural teeth and are an ideal option for back teeth. Additionally, zirconia crowns are gentle on opposing teeth, making them suitable for preserving dental health.

Same-day and Temporary Crowns

Same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns, are a type of dental crown that can be fabricated and placed in a single dental visit. This is in contrast to traditional dental crowns, which typically require multiple appointments and temporary crowns while waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated in a dental lab

The Dental Crown Procedure

Consultation and Planning

The dentist will examine the tooth to determine if it needs a crown or if there are other treatment options.
X-rays might be taken to check the roots of the tooth and surrounding bone.

First Visit

Preparation: The dentist will numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue using a local anesthetic. The tooth is then reshaped along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown. The amount of tooth that needs to be removed will depend on the type of crown material.
Impression: After reshaping, an impression of the tooth is created to ensure a proper fit and bite for the crown. This may be done traditionally using a mold or digitally with intraoral scanners.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is created. It’s generally made from acrylic and is temporarily cemented in place.

Second Visit

Permanent Crown Fitting: The temporary crown is removed. The dentist will place the new crown on the tooth to check its fit and color. If everything is acceptable, the tooth is cleaned and the new crown is permanently cemented in place.
Adjustments: Bite adjustments might be made to ensure a proper fit. The dentist may ask you to bite down several times to verify the fit and adjust as necessary.

Aftercare and Follow-up

It’s not uncommon to experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort after the procedure, especially after the anesthesia wears off. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be helpful.
Oral hygiene is crucial. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups will ensure the longevity of your new crown.
Avoiding hard foods and not using the crowned tooth as a tool (e.g., to open packages) will help prolong the life of the crown.

Caring for a Dental Crown

Caring for a dental crown is crucial to ensure its longevity and prevent potential issues. Here are some tips to help you care for your dental crown:

Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Pay special attention to the area around the crown, making sure to remove any plaque or bacteria that may accumulate.
Floss Daily: Floss daily to remove any food particles or debris that may get stuck between the crown and the surrounding teeth. This helps maintain the health of your gums and the integrity of your dental crown.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, such as candy or ice, as they can damage the crown or dislodge it. Opt for softer foods that are less likely to cause harm.
Regular Dental Visits: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to ensure the crown is in good condition and to catch any potential issues early. Your dentist can provide professional care and advice tailored to your needs.

By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your dental crown and keep your mouth healthy.

Common Issues with Dental Crowns

While dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring weak or damaged teeth, they can sometimes experience issues. Here are some common problems that may arise:

Chipping or Cracking: If the crown is made of porcelain or ceramic, it may chip or crack if subjected to excessive force or pressure. Metal crowns rarely chip, making them a durable option.
Dislodging: If the crown is not properly cemented or if the underlying tooth structure is weak, the crown may become dislodged. This can be addressed by your dentist with a simple re-cementing procedure.
Sensitivity: Some people may experience sensitivity or discomfort after getting a dental crown, especially if the crown is not properly fitted or if the underlying tooth is sensitive. This usually subsides over time, but your dentist can provide solutions to manage sensitivity.
Gum Recession: If the crown is not properly fitted or if the surrounding gums are not healthy, gum recession may occur. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help prevent this issue.

If you experience any of these issues, contact your dentist as soon as possible to address the problem and prevent further complications.

Cost of Dental Crowns

The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on several factors, including the type of material used, the location, and the dentist’s fees. Here are some general estimates:

Stainless Steel Crowns: $500-$1,500
Metal Crowns: $800-$2,500
Porcelain-fused-to-Metal Crowns: $1,000-$3,000
Ceramic Crowns: $1,500-$4,000
Gold Crowns: $2,000-$5,000

It’s essential to note that these estimates are approximate and may vary depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Your dentist can provide you with a more accurate estimate of the cost and help you determine the best option for your budget and needs.

By understanding the costs and benefits of different types of dental crowns, you can make an informed decision that best suits your dental health and financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, dental crowns can last anywhere from five to 15 years or even longer with proper care. The lifespan of your dental crown will depend on various factors such as the material used, oral hygiene routine, and the amount of wear and tear the crown is subjected to. Porcelain and ceramic crowns tend to have a longer lifespan than metal or resin-based crowns.

Getting a dental crown should not be painful as the procedure is usually performed with a local anesthetic. Some patients may experience some discomfort or sensitivity during or after the procedure. Your dentist can prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort.

Generally, it takes two dental visits to complete the dental crown placement process. The time it takes to place a crown on a tooth can vary depending on the specific case and the dentist’s technique. Your dentist will provide a treatment timeline at your initial consultation.

Yes, it’s possible to get a dental crown placed in one day using a technology called CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics). This technology allows the dentist to create and place a custom crown in a single dental visit. The dentist will take digital impressions of the tooth, design the crown using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and then use an in-office milling machine to fabricate the final crown.

Discover if Dental Crowns Are Right for You

Dental crowns are a popular and effective way to restore damaged or decayed teeth. Contact our Englewood, CO office at 303-795-3517 today to schedule a consultation with our dentists. They’ll evaluate your oral health and recommend the best treatment for you.