Dental Crowns – Bedford, VA

What is a
Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap-like restoration that covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It is often used when a tooth has a large cavity, has undergone a root canal, or is cracked. Crowns can also support dental bridges or cover dental implants. They are made from various materials, though we prefer ceramic at our practice due to its stability and beauty. Crowns are custom-made to fit the tooth and are cemented in place, protecting the underlying tooth structure while blending with the natural teeth for a seamless look.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

The process of getting a dental crown usually involves two appointments. During the first visit, we will examine the tooth and may take X-rays to assess its condition. If a crown is needed, the tooth is prepared by filing it down to make room for the crown. In cases where the tooth is severely decayed or damaged, a filling may be done to rebuild the structure.

Afterward, impressions of the tooth are taken to create a custom crown, and a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being made. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent one is cemented in place, restoring the tooth's function and appearance.

Benefits of Getting
a Dental Crown

Dental crowns offer several benefits. First, they provide protection to weakened or damaged teeth, preventing further decay or fractures. Crowns restore the shape, size, and function of a tooth, allowing you to chew and speak properly. They also improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth, blending with natural teeth to enhance your smile.

Crowns can help save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted, preserving the natural tooth structure. Additionally, they can support dental bridges or cover implants, contributing to overall dental health and stability. Durable and long-lasting, crowns typically last many years with proper care.

If you’re interested in learning more about what this style of restoration can do for you, make an appointment with us for a consultation today!

Understanding the Cost of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns help protect injured teeth while enhancing your appearance to boost your confidence in your smile, but it’s only natural to have questions before proceeding. For instance, many patients want to know how much their lifelike restoration will cost.

But the answer varies from person to person because it depends significantly on your individual circumstances. Continue reading to learn more about how pricing is determined and how our practice helps make treatments more affordable!

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dental Crowns

You might not pay the exact same amount as someone else for your dental crown because the rate can be affected by different factors, such as:

• Other procedures. If you require preliminary procedures, such as a root canal, you will also be required to pay for those treatments.
• The type of material used. These repairs can be made from different materials, such as porcelain, Zirconia, EMAX, or gold, which can affect the price.
• How it’s made. On-site same-day restorations may cost more than traditional ones made in a dental laboratory because they require additional materials and technology.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental Crowns?

Many dental insurance plans cover about 50% of the cost of major procedures, such as placing a dental crown, and our office happily accepts most major providers. With that said, every policy is unique, and there are no guarantees, so it’s worth verifying your information to understand what’s included.

If you’re unsure whether your coverage will include your procedure or would like help with claims or paperwork, please let us know! Our friendly office staff are familiar with the process and are happy to help you maximize any available benefits.

Options for Making Dental Crowns Affordable

A quality dental crown can help protect your injured tooth for years to come, and we don’t want your current financial circumstances to prevent you from receiving one of these lifelike restorations. If you’re concerned about affording treatment, you might benefit from one of the following options:

• Flexible financing. We gladly welcome flexible payment plans through CareCredit Financing and LendingClub, which allow you to divide your total invoice into more manageable installments, often with little to no interest.
• In-house membership. For a monthly or annual fee, we also offer in-house memberships that include routine preventive services and discounts on many other in-office procedures, including restorations.