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Dental Crowns: Are They Really Worth the Cost for Decayed Teeth?
Tooth decay can cause persistent pain, affect your ability to chew, and make you feel self-conscious about your smile. If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, you may wonder if it is worth the cost, especially when other options like fillings or extractions seem less expensive at first glance.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible part of your tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Unlike a filling, which repairs only the damaged portion, a crown surrounds and protects the entire tooth, acting as a shield against further decay and damage.
Crowns can be made of porcelain, zirconia, ceramic, metal, or a combination, and are colour-matched to blend with your natural teeth. At Square One Health Group, we use high-quality materials to ensure durability and a natural look for your restored tooth.
Why Are Dental Crowns Recommended for Decayed Teeth?
Severe tooth decay can weaken your tooth to the point where a filling is not enough to restore its structure. Fillings work well for smaller cavities, but when decay covers a significant portion of the tooth or the tooth has cracks, a crown is typically a better option.
Dental crowns:
- Protect weakened teeth from further breakage
- Restore proper chewing function
- Prevent discomfort during eating
- Maintain your natural bite alignment
- Improve your smile’s appearance while preserving your tooth
The Benefits of Choosing Dental Crowns for Decayed Teeth
1. Protecting Your Tooth Structure
A tooth with extensive decay becomes fragile and prone to fractures. A crown protects your tooth from breaking further, reducing the risk of needing an extraction or more complex treatments later.
2. Restoring Chewing and Speaking Comfort
When decay causes discomfort, you may avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, leading to uneven wear on other teeth. Crowns help restore your ability to chew and speak without discomfort.
3. Preventing Tooth Loss
Tooth loss can lead to the shifting of surrounding teeth and changes in your bite. By restoring a decayed tooth with a crown, you can prevent complications that often follow an extraction.
4. Enhancing Smile Aesthetics
Crowns are designed to match your natural teeth, allowing you to smile confidently without visible signs of decay or damage.
What Is the Cost of Dental Crowns in Mississauga?
If you are researching dental crowns in Mississauga, expect the cost to range between $1,000 $1,800 per tooth, depending on:
- The material used for your crown (porcelain, zirconia, metal, or ceramic)
- The condition of your tooth (additional procedures like root canals may increase costs)
- The technology used to design and place your crown
- Your dental insurance coverage
At Square One Health Group, we provide transparent pricing and assist you in understanding your insurance benefits to ensure you know your costs upfront.
Are Dental Crowns Worth the Cost?
While crowns are a larger investment than a filling, they can save you money over time by preventing further decay, fractures, and potential tooth loss that would require more expensive procedures like implants or bridges.
A crown helps preserve your natural tooth structure while protecting your oral health, making it a valuable investment for your long-term well-being and comfort.
Dental Crowns vs. Fillings: Which Is Better?
For minor decay, a filling is often sufficient. However, when decay is extensive, a filling may leave the tooth structurally weak, leading to fractures or additional decay around the filling edges. Crowns provide full coverage, reinforcing the tooth and reducing the chances of further damage.
Think of it this way:
- Fillings patch minor issues but don’t strengthen the tooth significantly.
- Crowns provide comprehensive protection, especially when the tooth is at risk of breaking.
What Happens If You Delay Getting a Crown?
Delaying treatment for a decayed tooth that needs a crown can result in:
- Progression of decay into the tooth’s nerve, requiring a root canal
- Tooth fracture, making restoration more difficult or impossible
- Infection and abscess, causing pain and requiring emergency treatment
- Potential tooth loss, leading to expensive replacement options
If your dentist recommends a crown, it is best to proceed promptly to avoid further complications.
The Dental Crown Process at Square One Health Group
Here is what patients can expect when getting dental crowns in Mississauga at Square One Health Group:
Step 1: Comprehensive Examination
Your dentist will examine your tooth and take digital X-rays to assess the extent of decay and confirm the need for a crown.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
The decayed areas are removed, and the tooth is shaped to allow space for the crown.
Step 3: Impressions
Digital or traditional impressions of your tooth are taken to create a precisely fitting crown.
Step 4: Temporary Crown
A temporary crown is placed while your custom crown is being fabricated.
Step 5: Permanent Crown Placement
Once your crown is ready, your dentist will check the fit and col0ur before permanently cementing it in place.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care, including:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily to keep your gums and tooth edges clean
- Avoiding biting on hard items like ice or pens
- Attending regular dental check-ups and cleanings
Caring for Your Crown After Placement
To protect your investment:
- Continue excellent oral hygiene practices.
- Avoid grinding your teeth; a night guard may be recommended if you clench or grind at night.
- Avoid chewing complex objects that could damage your crown.
- Schedule routine check-ups to monitor the crown and surrounding teeth.
Real Patient Stories: Are Crowns Worth It?
Patients at Square One Health Group frequently share positive outcomes after investing in crowns:
“After months of dealing with sensitivity, I finally got a crown, and it made a huge difference. It looks natural, and I can eat without pain.” – Mississauga Patient.
“I was hesitant because of the cost, but I’m glad I didn’t delay. My tooth feels strong, and I avoided the stress of a tooth extraction.” – Mississauga Patient.
These testimonials reflect the long-term value of choosing crowns for severely decayed teeth.
Why Choose Square One Health Group for Dental Crowns in Mississauga?
At Square One Health Group, we combine modern technology, compassionate care, and a patient-first approach to provide dental crowns that are:
- Durable: Using high-quality materials for long-lasting results.
- Precise: Digital scanning technology ensures crowns fit perfectly.
- Aesthetic: Crowns are colour-matched to your natural teeth.
- Comfortable: We prioritize your comfort during every visit.
- Accessible: We help you navigate your insurance and offer payment options to make care manageable.
Conclusion: Should You Get a Dental Crown for Decayed Teeth?
If you are dealing with severe decay, investing in a dental crown can protect your tooth, restore function, and improve your quality of life while preventing further complications. While the upfront cost may feel significant, the long-term benefits often outweigh the expense, making dental crowns a wise investment for your oral health.
Ready to Protect Your Smile?
If you are considering dental crowns in Mississauga, let Square One Health Group help you restore your oral health and confidence with personalized care.
Contact us for more information.
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