Dental crowns can be used to cover and protect teeth, improving function and aesthetics. Our Blaine dentists offer custom-crafted crowns to address a variety of dental concerns, from protecting teeth after root canals to enhancing the aesthetics of individual teeth. 

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What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. They can also be used on top of dental implants and to cover aesthetic concerns that other forms of cosmetic dentistry cannot, such as deep tooth stains or major cracks or chips. 

Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or resin, and are custom-fitted for each patient. At Legacy Dental Care, we custom-build our dental crowns with optimal stability and aesthetic quality in mind.

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are a versatile treatment that can be used to address a variety of functional and aesthetic concerns. Some situations where a dental crown might be needed include:

Dental Crowns vs. Implants

Dental crowns and dental implants can both be effective solutions for restoring damaged or missing teeth, but they serve different purposes. Specifically, a dental crown is used to cover and strengthen a tooth that is still present but may be decayed, fractured, or structurally compromised. It aims to restore both the look and function of the original tooth.

In contrast, a dental implant is a full tooth replacement solution used when a tooth is missing or must be extracted. The implant itself is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to mimic the root of a tooth. Once healed, a crown is attached to the top of the implant to complete the restoration.

If your tooth can be preserved, a crown may be a better option. With this in mind, if the tooth is beyond repair or has already been lost, an implant with a crown restoration may be the ideal long-term solution. In any case, our dentists will be happy to help you decide which treatment may best suit your needs.

What Is the Dental Crown Procedure Like?

The process of getting a dental crown is typically completed in two visits. During your first appointment, we will examine and prepare the tooth, which may involve removing any decay or old restorations and gently reshaping the tooth to make room for the crown. After we take impressions of your tooth, your custom crown can be crafted to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth.

While your permanent crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth. Once your final restoration is ready—typically within two to three weeks—you will return to the office for the second visit. At that time, your dentist will check the fit and appearance of the new crown before bonding it in place.*

How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?

The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on several factors, including the material used, the location of the tooth, and whether additional procedures (e.g. implants or a root canal) are needed. Dental insurance plans may cover part of the cost if the crown is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of decay or trauma.

At your first visit to Legacy Dental Care, our team will provide a personalized treatment plan and walk you through your expected costs. We are happy to discuss your insurance coverage, flexible payment options, and financing resources to help make your care as affordable and accessible as possible.

Interested in learning more about dental crowns? Contact Legacy Dental Care in Blaine today. 

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Cleveland Clinic