The right dental service is important for your teeth to function properly. An excellent dentist will do all they can to save your natural teeth before they look at other options.
Seeing your dentist early when you have pain or any discomfort can help resolve the problem faster. Even so, some teeth require full restorations, like dental crowns and dental implants in order to remain functional.
Dr. Pankaj Narkhede is one of the foremost authorities on dental restorations like dental implants and dental crowns. Call our Lake Forest dental office today to schedule your consultation!
What Is A Dental Crown?
A dental crown is also referred to as a cap, as it goes on top of a damaged tooth. The crown is going to look like a real tooth and you can eat with it like you normally would. You can also brush it and floss around it. The crown is designed to fit uniquely over the tooth it covers. It is made from metal, ceramic, or porcelain. It will be the same shade as your teeth too so it doesn't stand apart from them.
The best dentist is going to take time, ensuring the dental crown fits properly. They will ask you to bite down on it and tell them how it feels. Give them feedback so they can make any necessary adjustments. They will cement it in place over the tooth once the proper fit has been confirmed. The dental crown is also going to protect that tooth from further damage. It offers support and gives the tooth time to get healthy again. It isn't uncommon for a root canal to be done before a crown is added.
Benefits Of Dental Crowns
There are several benefits of a dental crown. It will help to protect the tooth from future problems. It can make the difference between a tooth getting healthy again or having to be extracted. The dental crown can reduce pain and sensitivity around the tooth too.
Disadvantages Of Dental Crowns
There are some disadvantages of a dental crown. The material they are made from will influence how well they look and how long they last. Some of the materials aren't as durable as others, but that may be all your insurance covers. As a result, you would have to have the crown replaced down the road.
The Dental Crown Procedure
If a dental crown is needed, the root canal is the first part of that process. Anesthesia will be given to prevent the area from being sensitive while the work is performed. This process gives the tooth the chance to heal and become healthy again. A root canal isn't always necessary though. Sometimes, a crown is needed because a tooth is weak. This can be due to damage or an underlying health issue. If a tooth is cracked or worn, it may require a crown to make it stronger.
Often, a temporary type of crown will be created at the same appointment. This gives additional protection to the tooth. Impressions are taken to create a permanent dental crown. A second appointment will be scheduled to complete that process. In the meantime, you may be given antibiotics and other instructions.
You may need antibiotics to destroy any infection and allow the tooth to heal without issues. At the next appointment, they will check on the healing of the tooth and fit the permanent crown. It will be secured in place after all the necessary adjustments are completed.
There are times when a same day dental crown is possible. It depends on the specific needs and the lab used to make the product. Some dental offices have their own lab onsite. Others can outsource it by bringing you in for an appointment early. The dental crown is made and you return in the afternoon for a second appointment for it to be completed.
Average Dental Crown Cost
The average cost of a dental crown is between $1,000 and $1,500. This should include the root canal and other services needed to complete the process. Most insurance plans will cover the cost of a root canal. They will also cover the majority of the cost involved with a dental crown. It depends on the specific dental coverage you have. Many of the plans require pre-approval before they will pay for a dental crown. Your dental office will need to submit the request to them for review.
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant may be necessary when the tooth can't be saved. It will need to be extracted, but you don't want a hole where it used to be. This can make it hard to keep your mouth clean. It can make you self-conscious too. When you have a tooth missing, the teeth around it aren't as stable as they should be. This can cause them to move and get loose. A dental implant is put in place to look and function like a real tooth. It also helps offer stability for surrounding teeth.
An anchor needs to be placed below the gum line for a dental implant to secure it. This process takes time to heal. You may be given a temporary flipper tooth in the meantime. This looks like a real tooth but it is removable. It will be used until your gum heals enough for the implant to be secured to the anchor.
Benefits Of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer several benefits. They help other teeth remain in place so you don't have additional problems due to teeth shifting. They fill in space for one or more missing teeth to allow you to continue to have full function of your teeth. They stay in place security too, and this can help you avoid the frustration of dentures or partials that tend to move and come loose throughout the day.
Disadvantages Of Dental Implants
There are some disadvantages of a dental implant. The cost is expensive, and it often isn't covered by insurance. Your dental office can help you review your plan and find out what is covered. They can help you determine the best way to pay for it when this is the type of service you need.
A dental implant process is more difficult than a crown. It takes time to heal and you must do your part to follow all of the instructions. It takes several appointments, and that can make it hard to fit into your schedule. There is going to be some pain and discomfort as the procedure heals. Some patients experience bruising along the jawline due to the procedure.
The Dental Implant Process
Multiple appointments are necessary for a dental implant to be completed. The amount of time between appointments depends on the healing process. Some patients tend to heal rapidly but it may take longer for others. The gum will be cut open for a post to be placed under it. That has to heal before the implant tooth can be secured to it. Once this is done the tooth looks and functions like a natural one.
The condition of a patient's jawbone plays a role in how the implant process is conducted. If there isn't enough bone, a bone graph may have to be completed. It takes time for that bone to attach. This process is more complex and will extend the time for the actual implant tooth to be secured to the post. Don't worry; you will at least have a temporary tooth so you aren't walking around with one missing!
Average Cost Of A Dental Implant
The average cost of a dental implant ranges from $1,500 to $3,000. This includes the anchoring, called an abutment. The overall cost depends on the materials it is made from, the dental office, and the amount of time it is going to take to complete the process for your specific needs. Many health insurance plans don't cover the cost of dental implants, but they will cover the cost of the rest of the procedure to prepare the mouth for one.
When dental insurance doesn't cover it, your dentist may offer in-house financing options. This allows you to get the dental implant procedure done and pay for it over time. This can be a good way to get the dental care you need and eliminate financial stress to pay for it.
Do I Need A Crown Or A Dental Implant?
Your dentist will need to complete an assessment of your tooth to determine if it can be fixed with a crown or not. If the answer is yes, they will go that route to preserve your natural tooth and save you money. If that isn't an option they can discuss a dental implant with you. Make sure you listen to the information your dentist shares. Ask any questions you may have once they have shared the details with you.
Keeping your mouth healthy and pain-free is important. Work closely with your dentist to take care of any issues as they arise. If you have a situation where you may need a crown or a dental implant, they can evaluate the situation with you. They can share information about their concerns and what they recommend. They can evaluate the pros and cons with you, allowing a well-informed decision to be made.
Now that you know all about the dental implant and dental crown processes, it's time to get a treatment plan from a dentist you know and trust. Call Dr. Narkhede today to schedule a consultation at our Lake Forest dentist office.