Using dental crowns to restore the smile
Dr. Jamie Richard of Dentistry at Golden Ridge educates patients on the benefits of dental crowns and how these tooth caps can restore the smile. This is especially true for patients who experience extensive areas of decay in a tooth or have had damage to the natural tooth structure and want to avoid extraction and replacement of a missing tooth. The dental crown is a ceramic or gold tooth cap that fits over a tooth to add an extra layer of strength and protection to a tooth that might otherwise be too weak to remain in the mouth. Patients in and around Golden, Colorado, can find out if they are a good candidate for a dental crown at our family-friendly practice.
What is the process of obtaining a dental crown?
After a thorough exam and x-rays are taken, patients can consult with the dentist. During this time, Dr. Richard will discuss the available restoration options for your smile. If you choose dental crowns as the best course of treatment to restore the strength and beauty of your teeth, she will begin by shaping the tooth and taking an impression to ensure that she can create an exact fit for your new dental crown.
Once the laboratory receives the impressions from our dental office, it typically takes about two weeks to deliver a final dental crown that has been crafted using only high-quality materials. This ensures that each part of your custom-made restoration is strong and durable enough to withstand all normal functions in the mouth without showing signs of wear or damage.
How do I care for a dental crown?
After the dental crown is placed over your tooth, you will need to visit our office for regular check-ups and cleanings at least every six months to ensure that it remains in place and has no problems with biting or chewing. You should also take steps at home to avoid damaging the restoration by avoiding hard foods with a lot of sticky or acidic ingredients and clenching or grinding your teeth together.
Dental Crowns FAQs
What does a dental crown do? When is it recommended?
A dental crown serves as a protective cover, restoring a damaged or weakened tooth to its full strength and function. Dr. Jamie Richard may recommend a crown if a tooth is fractured, worn down, severely decayed, or following a root canal. It can also be used to improve a tooth’s shape, alignment, or color for cosmetic enhancement.
What materials are used for dental crowns at Dentistry at Golden Ridge?
We offer a range of high-quality materials, including porcelain, zirconia, and gold. Porcelain and zirconia are popular because they mimic the color and translucency of natural enamel, blending beautifully with your surrounding teeth. Gold crowns, while less common, remain a great choice for molars due to their exceptional durability.
How long does it take to get a dental crown?
The process typically requires two visits over a period of approximately two weeks. During your first appointment, our team shapes the tooth, takes a digital impression, and places a temporary crown. The permanent restoration is crafted by a skilled dental laboratory for a perfect fit and natural appearance, then bonded in place during your follow-up visit.
Is getting a dental crown painful?
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring you feel no pain while the tooth is prepared or the crown is placed. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity afterward, but this subsides within a few days. Our gentle approach and advanced tools make the experience smooth and comfortable.
How much does a dental crown cost in Golden, Colorado?
The cost depends on the material and complexity of the case, but most crowns range from $1,700 – $2,000 per tooth. This includes preparation, impressions, a temporary crown, and final placement. We provide transparent pricing before treatment so you can plan confidently.
Does dental insurance cover the cost of a crown?
Yes. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion, typically 40% – 60%, of a crown’s cost when it’s deemed medically necessary. Coverage may vary based on material or plan type. The administrative team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge will confirm your benefits and help you understand any remaining out-of-pocket costs.
What are the benefits of choosing a custom dental crown?
Crowns restore both strength and aesthetics, allowing patients to chew comfortably and smile with confidence. They can prevent further breakage, protect teeth after root canal therapy, and replace large fillings. With proper care, crowns can last for many years, maintaining a natural, lifelike appearance that blends seamlessly with your smile.
How long do dental crowns typically last?
With good oral hygiene and routine dental checkups, crowns usually last 10 – 15 years or more. Avoiding habits like chewing ice, grinding your teeth, or biting fingernails can extend their lifespan even further. Our team checks the condition of each crown during your regular visits to ensure long-term success.
What should I do if my crown feels loose or cracks?
If your crown becomes loose, cracked, or uncomfortable, contact Dentistry at Golden Ridge immediately. Avoid chewing on that side until it’s examined. In most cases, we can quickly re-cement or replace the crown, preventing further complications and protecting the natural tooth underneath.
Where can I find a trusted dentist for dental crowns near Golden, CO?
For beautiful, durable dental crowns that restore strength and confidence, visit Dentistry at Golden Ridge. Dr. Jamie Richard proudly serve patients from Arvada, Morrison, Evergreen, Wheat Ridge, and surrounding communities. Call (303) 951-8515 or visit our office to schedule your consultation.
Core Values
Every treatment at Dentistry at Golden Ridge is guided by our core values of Excellence in professional service, continued Growth in expertise, a commitment to our patients’ overall Wellness, and a Balance between modern innovations and traditional patient-centered care.
