Our front teeth play a pivotal role in our daily lives. Not only do they greatly influence our appearance, contributing to our smiles and facial structure, but they are also essential for certain functions like biting into food.
Over time, these teeth may require restorative procedures, especially when damaged or decayed. One of the most effective solutions is the use of crowns specifically designed for front teeth.
Because crowns are expensive — and because alternatives like veneers and fillings may exist — patients understandably have questions about getting a crown on a front tooth. Here, we’ll take a detailed look and answer every question you may have.
Quick Answer: What Are Front Tooth Crowns? And Why Are They Needed?
Front tooth crowns are custom-made caps placed over damaged or esthetically compromised front teeth to restore their appearance and function.
They are essential for cases of significant tooth decay, fractures, or cosmetic imperfections.
Crowns are also the treatment of choice following root canals. By placing a crown on a tooth after a root canal, the risk of tooth fracture is greatly reduced.
The process involves tooth preparation, followed by designing a custom-made crown, which is then cemented or bonded onto the tooth.
Various materials, including porcelain and zirconia, can be used, with costs varying based on insurance coverage, geographic location, and materials used.
Why Front Tooth Crowns are Needed
Front teeth are arguably the most noticeable part of our dental structure. Their condition can influence self-confidence and play a big role in first impressions.
When these teeth suffer from significant damage, chipping, or decay, it not only impacts esthetics but also functionality.
Damage, Chipping, or Decay in Front Teeth: Just like other teeth, the front ones are susceptible to cavities, cracks, and wear and tear. Because these teeth are in a vulnerable position at the front of the mouth, issues often arise from accidents, sports injuries, or even habits like biting nails or opening packages with teeth. Decay can compromise the tooth's structure, making a simple filling insufficient.
Cosmetic Enhancements: Beyond damage and decay, some individuals might opt for crowns to address intrinsic discolorations, misshapen teeth, or gaps that other treatments can't adequately correct.
Speech and Biting Impact: Damaged or missing front teeth can significantly hinder speech clarity, especially for sounds that require the front teeth to articulate, such as "th" or "f". Additionally, these teeth play a critical role in tearing and biting food, and damage can affect dietary habits and food choices.
The Process of Getting a Front Tooth Crown
The journey towards restoring a front tooth with a crown includes a number of careful steps, designed to ensure the replacement not only looks natural but also functions effectively.
Initial Examination: The first step involves a thorough examination by the dentist to determine the extent of damage and the best approach for restoration. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the tooth's root and surrounding bone structure. While veneers and composite resins are often used on front teeth, full crowns are the “gold standard” for restoration of badly-damaged teeth.
Tooth Preparation: The dentist will anesthetize the area and reshape the tooth to accommodate the crown. This will involve removing some enamel from the tooth to make room for the crown (usually ~1 or 1.5 mm), or building it up if it's severely damaged. After reshaping, an impression of the tooth is taken using a mold or digital scanner, which will serve as a blueprint for the crown.
Temporary Crown Placement: Since the permanent crown fabrication can take a few days to weeks (unless the dentist has in-house crown-making capabilities), a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. This provisional solution helps maintain esthetics and function while the dental laboratory crafts the permanent crown. *Note that the final crown is usually “prettier” than the temporary — so don’t fret if your temporary crown is imperfect in appearance.
Final Crown Fitting and Adjustments: Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary one, clean the tooth, and carefully cement or bond the new crown in place. Adjustments might be made to ensure a perfect fit and bite alignment. Regular follow-ups should be scheduled to monitor the health of the tooth, as well as the surrounding teeth and gums.
Crowns vs. Veneers vs. Fillings for Front Teeth
When seeking restorative or cosmetic dental work, especially for front teeth, patients often find themselves deciding among crowns, veneers, and fillings.
Each has its unique advantages and applications:
Crowns: These act like a cap, covering the entire tooth. They are typically used when there's significant damage or decay, or for cosmetic reasons when more extensive modifications are desired. Crowns provide both strength and esthetics but are more expensive and require the tooth to be modified before placement.
Veneers: Veneers are thin porcelain or resin shells that cover the front surface of the tooth. Ideal for cosmetic changes, they address issues like discoloration, minor misalignments, or gaps. Veneers preserve more of the natural tooth than crowns but are far less durable in the long run.
Fillings: Directly addressing decayed or damaged areas, fillings are best for minor repairs. They can be made from various materials, including composite resin, which can be color-matched to the tooth. However, for extensive damage on front teeth where esthetics is a major concern, they might not be the first choice. Large fillings on the front teeth commonly chip, fracture, or become unbonded — and in many cases, it will be less expensive long-term to simply choose a crown instead.
Crowns vs. Veneers vs. Fillings: Compared
Durability: Crowns are the most durable, designed to last many years, followed by veneers and then fillings.
Appearance: Veneers and crowns often provide the best cosmetic results. Fillings are less noticeable today than in the past, but they might not match the surrounding teeth perfectly. Because crowns and veneers are made in the laboratory, rather than in the mouth, excellent cosmetic results are far easier to achieve.
Procedure Complexity: Crowns are the most involved procedure, requiring significant tooth reshaping. Veneers require some reshaping, while fillings are the least invasive.
Use Cases: Crowns are best for significant damage/decay or complete cosmetic overhaul, veneers for cosmetic corrections, and fillings for minor cavities or damage.
Materials Used for Front Tooth Crowns
The choice of material for a front tooth crown greatly influences its appearance, strength, and longevity.
Porcelain: Highly favored for front teeth due to its natural appearance. It reflects light similarly to natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend. However, it's not as strong as some other materials.
Ceramic: Offers a balance between strength and aesthetics. It's sturdy and can be matched closely to the color of neighboring teeth.
Metal: Gold or other alloys (known for their durability) might be used. However, given their distinct color, they're usually only chosen for front teeth if it's a patient request (such as a gold front tooth).
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): A combination aiming to offer the esthetics of porcelain with the strength of metal. However, the metal can sometimes show through as a dark line at the gum line, and the porcelain can chip or fracture on occasion.
Zirconia: A newer material that's both strong and esthetically pleasing. It can be color-matched to adjacent teeth and offers durability comparable to metal crowns.
Crown Materials: Compared
Porcelain: Pros: Natural appearance. Cons: Less durable than other materials.
Ceramic: Pros: Good strength and color match. Cons: Might wear down opposing teeth slightly more than natural teeth.
Metal: Pros: Highly durable. Cons: Esthetic concerns due to metal color.
PFM: Pros: Combination of strength and aesthetics. Cons: Potential for dark line at gum line.
Zirconia: Pros: Strength and esthetics combined. Cons: Slightly less natural in appearance than pure porcelain.
Expected Costs of Front Tooth Crowns
Determining the cost of a front tooth crown involves a variety of factors.
Here's a general breakdown:
Insurance Coverage: Dental insurance often covers a portion of the crown's cost, especially if it's medically necessary. Further, dental insurance companies discount the amount that an in-network dentist can charge. It's crucial to consult with your provider to understand your coverage. Cosmetic procedures might not be covered.
Cost Based on Materials (keep in mind that the listed costs refer to cash prices without insurance benefit or discount):
Porcelain, Ceramic, & Zirconia: These often come with a higher price tag due to their natural appearance and improved properties, generally ranging from $800 to $1,800 per tooth, with an average of ~$1,350.
Metal: Typically less expensive than porcelain or ceramic, metal crowns can cost between $700 and $1,600, with an average of ~$1,230 for base metal and closer to $1,400 for gold or noble metal.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Prices for PFM crowns are in the mid-range, usually from $800 to $1,500, with an average of ~$1,290.
Factors Influencing Cost:
Need for Additional Procedures: Costs can increase substantially if additional procedures like root canals, posts, or core buildups are needed.
Laboratory Fees: The facility where the crown is manufactured might have varying fees. Out-of-network dentists will likely adjust their fees accordingly, while some in-network dentists may add an additional fee depending on the material used.
Dentist's Experience: Specialists (such as prosthodontists) or highly-experienced dentists may charge more.
Final Thoughts
When considering a crown for a front tooth, it's essential to have a detailed discussion with your dentist. They can guide you on the most appropriate material and solution based on your individual needs, aesthetics, and budget.
While the upfront cost might seem high, investing in a quality crown ensures durability, function, and a confident smile, making it a worthwhile investment for the long-term.
FAQs
How long do front tooth crowns typically last?
The lifespan of a front tooth crown largely depends on the care it receives. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, most crowns last 10+ years. However, many crowns can last for decades or even an entire lifetime. Crowns don’t have an expiration date — it’s usually dependent on how well you take care of them!
Will a crowned tooth feel different from my natural teeth?
Initially, you might feel a slight difference, especially in texture or shape. However, with time, most people get accustomed to the crown and can't distinguish it from their natural teeth. It's essential to communicate with your dentist if any prolonged discomfort arises.
Can a crowned front tooth still get cavities?
While the crown itself cannot decay, the tooth underneath can still be susceptible to cavities, especially at the gum line where the crown meets the tooth. Regular dental hygiene practices, including flossing around the crown, are vital to prevent decay.
What should I do if my front tooth crown becomes loose or falls out?
If your crown becomes loose or falls out, contact your dentist immediately. Avoid trying to glue it back yourself, as this could cause more harm. Your dentist will guide you on the next steps, which might involve re-cementing the existing crown or creating a new one.
How should I care for my front tooth crown?
Treat your crown as you would your natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss around the crown to prevent gum disease or decay, and attend regular dental check-ups. It's also wise to avoid biting on very hard foods or objects with your crowned tooth to prevent any potential damage.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.