All-Ceramic Dental Crowns – Abington, MA

When a tooth suffers from decay, breakage, or other forms of damage, a dental crown is often able to renew its form and function. While crowns can be made out of various materials, including different types of metal, we favor all-ceramic dental crowns. Dental ceramic, sometimes called dental porcelain, offers a strong and aesthetically pleasing way to restore teeth. Read the information below to learn more about ceramic dental crowns and how this treatment may benefit you.

What Are All-Ceramic Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a custom-made, tooth-shaped “cap” that covers the entire upper portion of a tooth (everything above the gumline). The ceramic used to make dental crowns is very biocompatible, which means that it works well with the human body. It can also be shade-matched to blend in well with the surrounding dentition. It even reflects light in a manner similar to that of natural tooth enamel. A well-made ceramic crown is virtually indistinguishable from a real tooth.

How Do All-Ceramic Dental Crowns Work?

The process for designing and placing a dental crown usually takes two appointments. At the first appointment, your dentist prepares the tooth that will receive the crown. They do so by removing a bit of enamel so that the crown will fit well. Then, they take some impressions of your teeth and give you a temporary crown to wear while a laboratory fabricates your permanent one. You will return to our office for your second appointment after your crown is finished. Your dentist will verify its fit before permanently attaching it to your tooth.

Why Choose a Ceramic Crown Over a Traditional Crown?

The most obvious benefit of ceramic crowns is that, unlike metal crowns, they provide a completely natural appearance. Additional advantages include:

• Ceramic crowns are metal-free and mercury-free. This makes them ideal for people with metal allergies or sensitivities. They are also well-suited for individuals who are concerned about the mercury content of some traditional dental restorations.
• Ceramic crowns carry no risk of metal absorption. Teeth may absorb nickel, chromium, and other metals from traditional crowns. Ceramic crowns do not have this problem.
• Ceramic crowns are durable. Your crown may last for 10 years or longer before replacement becomes necessary.
• Ceramic crowns have a low risk of infection. As long as you care well for your ceramic crown, it should remain strong enough to prevent infections of the underlying tissue.

Cost of All-Ceramic Dental Crowns

The cost of all-ceramic dental crowns is comparable to that of traditional crowns. Our team will be happy to give you an estimate for the cost of your treatment when you visit us for your restorative consultation. We will also help you file insurance claims; most policies cover a portion of the cost of crowns if the procedure is deemed necessary for a patient’s oral health. Low- or no-interest financing is also an option for most patients who would like to pay for their crown in monthly installments.