7 Things to Ask Before Agreeing to a Crown

Thanks to technological advancements in the field of dentistry, dental crown same day appointments are made possible. Plus, with intraoral scanners and in-office milling machines, production of same-day dental crowns is faster, making this a standard for straightforward cases in Melbourne and major cities across Australia. Long-term clinical evidence also shows that these same-day crowns, which are often made using CEREC systems, last just as long as traditional, lab-made crowns over a ten-year period. The main exception, though, is for complex work, like the replacement of front teeth. Matching the look perfectly with the original is critical, and in such intricate cases like these, the artistic and skillful touch of a trained dental technician is still well worth the wait.

Now, if you’ve been considering getting a dental crown, you might want to consider asking your dentist these 7 vital questions. Remember, getting a crown is an irreversible procedure, so it’s best to think twice or more before getting it.

“Could it be possible to get a large filling or onlay work instead of getting a crown? ”

Crowns, as their name suggests, serve as a “cap” to restore your damaged tooth, and it involves shaving down your natural tooth so the cap can fit. Sure, it will serve as a protection, but as mentioned earlier, it’s irreversible. If you’re still hesitant, ask your dentist if there are other conservative alternatives, like maybe a partial crown or an overlay. This way, you could save more of your tooth’s natural structure.

“What will happen if I delay or choose not to get a crown? ”

Although the process of getting a crown can be pretty daunting, so is the thought of leaving your decayed or damaged tooth unprotected. But before going through with the process, you should understand all the risks first. Would leaving your tooth unattended lead to a painful fracture? Ask your dentist if leaving your tooth in such a state would require a root canal, so you know your priorities.

“Will the tooth require a root canal first? ”

Although a crown is considered a modern dental solution, bear in mind that not every crowned tooth requires a root canal. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination to see if the nerve inside is damaged or infected. If it is, then treatment must be done first to avoid drilling into your new crown later.

Now, let’s talk about the material options for your crown. Not all crowns are made equal, so if you’re more focused on function rather than aesthetics, it’s best to discuss your preferences with your dentist and ask the following questions.

“What material do you recommend for my tooth and why? ”

There are a variety of materials used to make crowns, ranging from porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). Actually, gold can also be used for crowns, but if you’re prioritizing function, zirconia and metal are a popular choice. If you’re more particular about your tooth’s aesthetics, then white porcelain is a great choice for a more natural look. Bottom line, it all boils down to your preference, so it’s best to discuss this with your dentist.

“How long will this crown last, and is there a warranty? ”

Crowns are incredibly durable, known for lasting between 10 and 15 years. However, it doesn’t hurt to ask your dentist about the crown’s specific failure rate. While you’re at it, you might as well ask if they also offer a replacement guarantee if your crown cracks prematurely.

Once you have an idea of the materials and timeline, it’s equally important to talk about the financial breakdown so you can plan your budget and schedule accordingly.

“Is this a same-day CEREC crown or is it a traditional multi-visit crown? ”

In case you didn’t know, traditional crowns require two visits, wherein your dentist will also put a temporary cap on your teeth while the lab manufactures the permanent crown. Just a heads-up: this could be uncomfortable. On the bright side, many and most dental offices use 3D-printed and same-day crowns, which saves you multiple visits. In fact, you’ll most likely be sitting right in the chair as the crowns are created right then and there.

“Including the buildup, what is the total out-of-pocket cost? ”

Given their durable function and aesthetics, you should be well aware that crowns are pretty expensive. Its price often has a “core buildup,” which is the filling material used to anchor the cap. Of course, you can always check if your insurance covers this dental procedure, but make sure that you ask the dental office for a breakdown so you have an idea of how much you need to pay out of pocket.

To wrap it up, getting a crown is a great way to protect your damaged tooth, but it requires careful consideration. Before you proceed, it helps to clarify with your dentist the alternatives, clinical necessity, and best materials for your tooth, as well as the cost and structural timeline.