What Are Porcelain Crowns?

Designed to repair and protect cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged teeth, porcelain dental crowns are durable restorations that offer natural-looking results. Porcelain crowns can be used on their own to protect an existing tooth that requires extra support, or in conjunction with either a dental implant or bridge when replacing a missing tooth (or a tooth that needs to be removed).

If you think you may be a good candidate for porcelain crowns, please contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation with our experienced dentist, Dr. Martin Gorman.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Porcelain Crowns?

Dental crowns offer a variety of advantages for patients in need of tooth replacement or repair. Some of the benefits porcelain crowns can provide are:

Weakened teeth can be protected from further damage
The jaw’s proper alignment can be preserved
Missing teeth can be restored, improving the structural support, as well as the appearance of the patient’s smile
The aesthetics of a damaged tooth can be improved
Dental implants can be covered for a natural look and feel

In addition to these benefits, porcelain crowns can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.

How Much Do Porcelain Crowns Cost?

Dr. Gorman customizes treatment for each of his patients, so the price of porcelain crowns can vary, depending on each patient’s unique needs. The total cost at most dental practices is based on a variety of factors, including the number of teeth requiring treatment, the location of the affected teeth, the type of materials being used, your dental insurance coverage, and the experience level of the dentist performing the procedure. To get a more accurate price estimate for your individual case, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Gorman. To help make the price more manageable for our patients, we offer financing options through CareCredit®, which enables patients to make monthly payments with low or no interest. During your consultation, we can provide you with more information on how to apply.

What is The Porcelain Crowns Process Like?

Following a thorough examination, Dr. Gorman can create a customized treatment plan for you and decide what the best course of action is. If the affected tooth or teeth require extraction, dental implants may be recommended, rather than a crown alone.

If Dr. Gorman determines you are a good candidate for dental crowns, the affected tooth or teeth can be prepped for crown placement, and an impression is taken. This impression serves as a guide for the talented ceramists at the laboratory we work with, ensuring a proper fit. The crown is custom-made at the lab, and can be color-matched to your existing teeth for the most natural appearance possible. Some patients may decide to whiten their teeth prior to crown placement for a more comprehensive enhancement to their smile. Once the crown has been created, you will be asked to return to our office so Dr. Gorman can cement the crown into place, completing your restoration.

How Long Do Porcelain Crowns Last?

Porcelain crowns typically do not require any special care or maintenance; in addition to staying on top of annual dental cleanings and exams, regular brushing and flossing can help protect crowns, allowing them to last for decades.