Green Hills Smiles | Greg Eckel DDS | Family, Cosmetic, Implant and Laser Dentistry | 3817 Bedford Ave., Suite 130, Nashville, TN 37215 | 615-490-3701
ALL CERAMIC DENTAL CROWNS
What are the steps involved in getting a Dental Crown?
After the tooth is numb from local anesthetic all tooth decay and existing restorations are removed. If there is an insufficient amount of remaining tooth structure to retain the crown a buildup will be necessary. A buildup is made by bonding composite resin to the tooth, sometimes with pins or posts to add to the retention. Following this step the tooth will be prepared for the crown. An impression is then taken of the tooth to be fitted with crown as week as the adjacent and opposing teeth. The impression is scanned and rendered in a CAD program and a crown is digitally designed. This design is then precisely milled by a specialized milling machine. Common choices for crown materials are zirconia and lithium dislocate. These are ceramics that look like a natural tooth. Dr. Eckel prefers these types of crown due to their precise fit and strength as well as their beauty. Fitting the finished crown is typically a very brief appointment.
What is a Dental Crown?
When a tooth has been structurally compromised a crown may be necessary to restore the tooth long term to proper form and function. If a tooth is broken, cracked, or damaged by extensive decay, a crown can protect the tooth from further damage. When a tooth is cracked a crown will cover the tooth and help it from splitting further. If the functional cusp of a tooth is compromised due to breakage or deep tooth decay a crown can predictably return the tooth to proper function. Crowns are also necessary for posterior teeth that have been treated with a root canal as these teeth are at significant risk for fracture. Crowns also provide an esthetic alternative to veneers for teeth that have been heavily restored with past dental work.
Cost and Insurance Coverage for Dental Crowns
Prior to initiating any treatment you will be provided a prioritized treatment plan that will list what your estimated costs and insurance coverage will be for your procedure. The cost of dental crown will vary depending upon a variety of factors including the material used as well as your insurance plan coverage. Typically crowns are covered at 50% for most PPO insurance plans.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Crowns
Will my crown have any metal in it?
No. Dro Eckel uses modern ceramic materials exclusively.
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How long do crowns last?
A properly maintained crown that was prepared properly and sealed tightly to the tooth can last a very long time, even a lifetime. The key is to floss and brush the crown daily to prevent recurrent decay.
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