Dental crowns are a popular and effective treatment in general dentistry to restore damaged teeth. They can restore teeth that are broken, cracked, or severely decayed. There are many uses and advantages of Las Vegas dental crowns, especially for people who have lost or damaged teeth.
Meet Your Las Vegas Dental Crown Providers
Dr. Chin completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Rochester Medical Center, Eastman Institute for Oral Health, with extensive experience in restorative and prosthetic dentistry.
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Dr. Pharar completed advanced training at Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry and specializes in restorative dentistry, including custom crown work.
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The Role of Dental Crowns in Restoring Damaged Teeth
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown is an artificial cap placed over a damaged tooth. The crown is designed to cover the entire visible portion of the tooth and is cemented in place. Dental crowns can be made from different materials, including porcelain, zirconia, and metal, and the right material depends on the tooth’s location and the patient’s preference.
- Porcelain: Matches the natural color and translucency of surrounding teeth, making it a popular choice for front teeth and other visible areas of the smile.
- Zirconia: A strong, tooth-colored ceramic that holds up well to the biting forces of molars while still looking natural.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Combines a metal substructure with a porcelain outer layer for added strength in areas that need extra support.
- Metal (gold or base metal alloy): Highly durable and long-wearing, typically reserved for back molars where appearance matters less than strength.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
A dental crown has a normal lifespan of 10 to 30 years. The sort of material used and how well they are maintained will impact how long they will survive. Dental crowns can last a lifetime, depending on oral hygiene and diet. Certain underlying oral health disorders, such as bruxism or gingivitis, may, however, reduce the lifespan of dental crowns.
When are Dental Crowns Necessary?
Dental crowns are necessary when teeth are damaged or decayed beyond repair. This can occur due to trauma, cavities, or wear and tear. Some common scenarios that require a dental crown include the following:
- Cracked or broken tooth
- A tooth that has a large filling that has failed
- A tooth after root canal therapy
- A tooth that is severely decayed
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Comprehensive dental treatments with flexible financing options to make quality care affordable for everyone.
The Dental Crown Procedure
First Visit
Dr. Chin or Dr. Pharar numbs the tooth with local anesthesia, then removes any damaged or decayed tissue and shapes the tooth to accommodate the crown. An impression is taken and sent to a local dental lab to fabricate your custom crown.
Temporary Crown
A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth while your permanent restoration is fabricated. You may feel pressure but not sharp pain during preparation, and mild sensitivity afterward is normal.
Second Visit
The temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is checked for fit and bite before being cemented in place, restoring the tooth's strength and appearance.
Getting a dental crown typically takes two visits, as outlined below.
Care and Maintenance of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns require proper care and maintenance to last for many years. Patients should brush and floss regularly and avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods. It’s also important to visit the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
If a crown becomes loose or damaged, it should be checked by a dentist immediately. In some cases, a loose crown can be re-cemented. However, if the crown is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several benefits, including:
- Restoring the function of damaged teeth
- Improving the appearance of damaged teeth
- Providing a durable and long-lasting restoration
However, there are also some drawbacks to dental crowns, including:
- The need for tooth preparation
- The potential for sensitivity or discomfort
- The possibility of the crown coming loose or becoming damaged
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
Dental crowns typically cost between $900 and $1,700, providing both strength and beauty to damaged or decayed teeth.
Key Factors Affecting Crown Costs:
- Material Choice: Porcelain, zirconia, and metal crowns each have different price points.
- Tooth Location: Molars often require stronger, more durable crowns.
- Additional Procedures: Core build-ups or root canals can increase costs.
- Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans partially cover crowns, but out-of-pocket costs can vary.
We offer flexible financing options through Alphaeon, CareCredit, and our in-office membership plan to make high-quality dental care more accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns in Las Vegas, NV
What is a dental crown made of?
Dental crowns can be made from porcelain, zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or metal alloys. Porcelain and zirconia are the most common choices for visible teeth because they closely match natural tooth color, while metal is typically reserved for back molars where strength matters more than appearance.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
Most patients feel little to no discomfort. The tooth is numbed with local anesthesia before any preparation begins, so you may feel pressure but not sharp pain. Mild sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days afterward is normal and typically resolves on its own.
How long does a dental crown last?
A dental crown typically lasts 10 to 30 years, and some can last a lifetime with proper care. Lifespan depends on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and whether conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding) are present.
How many visits does a dental crown take?
Most dental crowns require two visits. The first visit prepares the tooth and places a temporary crown while your permanent crown is fabricated by a local dental lab. The second visit removes the temporary and cements the permanent crown in place.
Will my insurance cover a dental crown?
Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for crowns, especially when the crown is medically necessary. We accept most major insurance providers including Delta Dental, MetLife, CIGNA, and Anthem Blue Cross, and offer financing through Alphaeon and CareCredit for out-of-pocket costs.
Are You Interested in Las Vegas Dental Crowns?
Our Las Vegas dental office has been providing well-fitting and comfortable dental crowns for our community since 2017. Dr. Robert Chin and Dr. Jessica Pharar both completed advanced postdoctoral training programs, equipping them with the expertise to handle complex cases and ensure optimal results. Dr. Pharar’s specialized training at the Sammons Cancer Center has prepared her to work with patients facing unique challenges, while Dr. Chin’s General Practice Residency at the University of Rochester Medical Center provided extensive experience in prosthetic dentistry.
By understanding the role of dental crowns in restoring damaged teeth, patients can decide whether this procedure is right for them. Dental crowns can provide a durable and long-lasting restoration for many years with proper care and maintenance. At Drs. Chin and Pharar Dentistry, our team can provide you with a secure and durable dental crown for your teeth. Contact us to schedule an appointment!
