Dental Crown Frequently Asked Questions – Montgomery, MN

Before having any kind of dental work done, it’s a good idea to have all the information beforehand. We’ve used dental crowns in Montgomery to restore smiles for many years and have helped countless patients understand more about the procedure. Below, you’ll find answers to several dental crown frequently asked questions, but don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’re unsure about anything else!

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

In most cases, crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. However, this depends on a variety of factors such as your oral hygiene habits, whether you clench and grind at night, what kind of foods you eat, and habits like chewing on ice.

How Do I Maintain a Dental Crown?

Caring for your dental crown isn’t complicated. Here are some tips to help it last as long as possible:

• Maintain good oral hygiene - A dental crown itself can’t get a cavity, but the existing tooth structure underneath it can. Be sure to gently but thoroughly brush and floss, especially around the gum line where your natural tooth is exposed.
• See us for regular checkups – If a cavity or other problem does develop, we can usually catch and treat it early to extend the life of the crown.
• Wear a nightguard if necessary – A nightguard can prevent clenching and grinding forces from chipping or cracking a crown (and protects your natural teeth at the same time).
• Watch your habits and dietary choices – Avoid chewing or biting on anything hard, such as ice, pens, or hard candy.

How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?

The cost varies depending on different factors, but a good ballpark figure is between $900-$1,400. Most dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of a crown and, as a dentist in Montgomery, we’re always happy to help you understand your plan benefits. We can also file a preauthorization beforehand, which is a formal estimate of your costs from your insurance company. For uninsured patients, we offer third-party financing that allows you to make low or no-interest monthly payments. 

What Materials Are Dental Crowns Made From?

All of the following materials can be used. Dr. Iverson will discuss your needs and cosmetic goals before making a recommendation:

• Porcelain
• Gold and other metals
• Ceramic
• Zirconia

What's the Difference Between a Temporary and Permanent Dental Crown?

A crown procedure requires 2 appointments. At the first, we’ll reduce your tooth in size so your crown won’t feel too large or bulky. Then we’ll take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab – they’ll have your permanent crown made in about 1-2 weeks. In the meantime, we’ll put a temporary crown on your tooth that looks and functions normally until your second visit, when we’ll cement the permanent crown into place.