Dental Crowns - Inlays - Onlays in Nashville

Natural Looking And Made Custom For Your Smile

What are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a type of restoration that is designed to fit over a damaged or compromised tooth. If a tooth has fractured, broken or has been recently root canaled, we may recommend that it be crowned. Crowns both protect the tooth from further damage as well as improve its size and shape. You can expect the restoration to last for many years before it'll need to be replaced.

Why are Dental Crowns needed?

There are a couple of reasons for why you might benefit from a new dental crown. The most common reason is because a tooth has cracked, fractured or broken. You might need a crown if you've recently underwent a root canal, which can leave the tooth more prone to breaking. If a tooth has a large filling in it or a deep area of decay, we might recommend simply crowning it to protect and restore it.

Who is a candidate for Dental Crowns?

Dr. James R Pace, Dr. James R Pace Jr & Dr. Josh Zarabi will examine your teeth to determine if a crown is necessary. If it's found that you do need a crown, it is best to have the work done right away to prevent further damage to the tooth. If you have an older crown that needs to be replaced, we can do this easily in our office at your own convenience. Crowns can be placed over virtually any tooth within the mouth in need of restoration.

What happens during the Dental Crown procedure?

The first step is to numb the area of the mouth that needs the crown. Dr. James R Pace, Dr. James R Pace Jr & Dr. Josh Zarabi will administer a local anesthetic to make the appointment more comfortable for you. The tooth is then filed down appropriately so that there is enough room for the restoration. We take impressions and use these to make the new crown. You will come in for a second appointment so that the final crown can be placed. You can expect the restoration to last for many years while providing you with a full and healthy-looking smile.

If you'd like to learn more about how dental crowns are made and placed, call us today to speak with one of our friendly staff members for further information.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can be made from several materials, and the best choice depends on which tooth is being restored, how much biting force it handles, and how visible it is when you smile:

Porcelain and all-ceramic crowns look the most natural and are an excellent choice for front teeth that show when you smile.
Zirconia crowns are very strong and hold up well to heavy chewing, which makes them a popular choice for molars while still looking natural.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine a natural appearance with the strength of a metal base and are often a cost effective option.
Gold and metal crowns are the most durable of all and require the least tooth reduction, which makes them a long lasting option for back teeth.

During your visit, we will recommend the material that best fits the location of the tooth, your bite, and your goals.

How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost in Nashville?

In the Nashville area, a dental crown generally costs between about $900 and $2,500 per tooth, depending mainly on the material. As a general guide, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns run about $800 to $1,500, all-ceramic or porcelain crowns about $1,000 to $2,000, zirconia about $1,000 to $2,500, and gold about $1,200 to $2,500. If a tooth is badly damaged, additional treatment such as a core buildup or a root canal may be needed before the crown is placed, which can affect the total. Many dental insurance plans help cover crowns when they are medically necessary, and we offer financing to make treatment manageable. See our financing options or contact us for a personalized estimate.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

With good care, most dental crowns last 10 to 15 years, and many last 20 years or longer. You can extend the life of your crown by brushing and flossing daily, keeping up with regular cleanings and checkups, and avoiding habits like chewing ice or using your teeth to open packaging. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard helps protect both your crown and your natural teeth.

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