Dental Crowns in Jacksonville, FL

The benefits of a crown are numerous, including restoring a tooth’s structural integrity and aesthetics, preventing further damage, and supporting chewing function. A well-placed crown can look and feel completely natural. However, there are disadvantages to consider. The procedure requires reducing the natural tooth structure, which is irreversible. Crowns, like fillings, may also sometimes result in temporary tooth sensitivity after placement. The cost can also be a consideration for patients without comprehensive dental insurance. Discussing these aspects with your provider ensures you make an informed decision for your oral health.

Several types of tooth crown materials are available, each offering unique benefits for restoration. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on the tooth’s location and function. Common types include:

• All-Ceramic/Porcelain: Provides the best natural color match, making it ideal for front teeth.
• Zirconia: A newer ceramic, exceptionally strong and durable for both front and back teeth.
• Metal Alloys (Gold): Extremely durable and wear-resistant; often used for molars.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Balances strength and aesthetics, though the metal margin may sometimes be visible near the gumline.

With proper care, a crown is a great long-term dental solution. On average, a well-maintained crown lasts between five and fifteen years, though many patients enjoy their crown for two decades or longer. Longevity depends heavily on factors like the material used, the amount of wear and tear it experiences, and the patient's oral hygiene habits. Avoiding habits such as grinding, clenching, or chewing on hard objects greatly extends the life of the crown. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the crown's condition and address any issues proactively, ensuring its maximum lifespan.

Caring for your crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth and is crucial for maintaining both the crown and the underlying tooth. You should continue to brush twice daily with a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day. Pay special attention to the margin where the crown meets the gum line, as plaque buildup here can lead to decay and gum disease. Use floss threaders or water flossers if needed to clean this area thoroughly. Regular professional cleanings and check-ups are also essential to monitor the crown's fit and ensure the health of the surrounding gums.

A dental crown replacement becomes necessary when the existing crown is compromised or fails to protect the tooth. Signs that you may need a replacement include visible wear, chipping, or a fracture in the crown material. If the gum line recedes, exposing the underlying natural tooth or the dark metal margin of a PFM crown, a replacement may be sought for aesthetic reasons. And if decay develops underneath the existing crown or if the cement washes out, causing the crown to feel loose, it requires replacement to prevent infection or structural failure of the tooth.

The cost for a dental crown in Jacksonville varies widely. This variance depends on several key factors, including the material chosen, the complexity of the procedure, and whether additional work, like a root canal or core buildup, is needed. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, often around 50%, for medically necessary restorative crowns. We recommend discussing your specific case and reviewing your benefits with our team to obtain an accurate estimate tailored to your treatment plan.

Absolutely. A crown is one of the most effective solutions for dramatically improving the appearance of damaged or discolored teeth. When a tooth is severely stained, misshapen, or has extensive cosmetic defects that cannot be addressed with simple bonding or whitening, crowns provide a full, aesthetically pleasing cover. They restore the tooth’s ideal shape and contour, resulting in a beautiful, natural-looking, and lasting cosmetic enhancement.

While receiving a tooth crown is a common and safe procedure, a few minor risks exist. Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold is common immediately after the procedure but usually subsides quickly. Occasionally, the crown may become loose, requiring re-cementation, or it may chip, especially if made of all-porcelain. Another potential complication is discomfort or pain caused by an underlying nerve issue, which may necessitate a root canal. Proper crown fitting minimizes the risk of gum irritation.

Regular check-ups with your Jacksonville dentist allow for early detection and treatment of any complications.