78 Main St A, Netcong, NJ 07857
Restoring Strength and Function to a Damaged Tooth
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance after damage, decay, or a large filling has left it structurally weakened. Unlike a filling, which repairs a portion of a tooth, a crown covers the entire visible surface, providing full protection for teeth that could otherwise crack, break, or fail under normal biting pressure.
At Gibney Dental Associates in Netcong, NJ, dental crowns are one of the most common restorative treatments we provide, used to save teeth that have suffered significant decay, undergone root canal treatment, or been affected by a large old filling that no longer holds up. A well-fitted crown can extend the life of a tooth for many years, often preventing the need for extraction altogether.
Procedure Duration: 1 to 2 visits
Sedation Options: Local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide), anti-anxiety medication
Why a Dental Crown May Be the Right Solution
- Restores strength to a tooth that has been weakened by decay, a large filling, or a crack
- Protects a tooth following root canal treatment, which can leave it more brittle over time
- Improves the appearance of a discolored, misshapen, or worn-down tooth
- Prevents further damage or breakage that could eventually lead to tooth loss
- Restores normal chewing function and bite alignment
- Custom crafted to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding natural teeth
Who Is a Candidate for a Dental Crown?
A dental crown may be recommended if you have:
- A tooth with a large cavity that is too extensive for a standard filling to repair
- A cracked or fractured tooth at risk of breaking further under normal biting pressure
- A tooth that has recently undergone root canal treatment and needs protection
- Significant wear, discoloration, or misshaping affecting a tooth's appearance
- An existing large filling that has failed or is showing signs of wear
- A dental implant that needs a crown to complete the restoration
A comprehensive exam and, in some cases, x-rays help determine whether a crown is the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation.
Your Dental Crown Journey, From Prep to Placement
Getting a dental crown at our Netcong office typically involves two visits, spaced a few weeks apart to allow time for your custom crown to be fabricated.
01.
Exam and Tooth Preparation
The dentist examines the tooth, takes any necessary x-rays, and reshapes the tooth by removing a small portion of the outer structure to make room for the crown.
02.
Digital Impressions
We take precise digital impressions of your prepared tooth and surrounding teeth, ensuring your permanent crown fits accurately and matches your bite.
03.
Temporary Crown Placement
While your permanent crown is being crafted, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth and maintain normal function in the meantime.
04.
Permanent Crown Placement
Once your custom crown is ready, we remove the temporary, check the fit, color, and bite alignment, and permanently cement the new crown into place.
How Long a Dental Crown Actually Lasts
With proper care, a dental crown typically lasts between 10 and 15 years, and many last considerably longer depending on the material used and how well the tooth underneath is maintained. Crowns are not indestructible, though. Grinding your teeth at night, chewing on excessively hard foods, or skipping regular dental checkups can shorten a crown's lifespan considerably. Bringing a night guard into the conversation is common for patients who grind their teeth, since it can meaningfully extend how long a crown holds up over time. Routine exams allow us to catch early signs of wear or a loosening fit before they turn into a bigger problem.
Insurance, Financing, and Membership Options for Dental Crowns
Most dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for dental crowns when they are considered medically necessary, and our team verifies your specific benefits before treatment begins so you know what to expect in terms of cost. For patients without insurance, our in-house membership plan includes discounted pricing on crowns alongside other restorative treatments. We also offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit for patients who prefer to spread the cost of treatment over time.
Protect a Damaged Tooth Before It Gets Worse
A weakened or damaged tooth rarely improves on its own. Left untreated, decay and cracks tend to progress, sometimes to the point where a tooth can no longer be saved. Schedule a consultation at Gibney Dental Associates to find out if a dental crown can restore your tooth before more invasive treatment becomes necessary.