If you’re experiencing tooth damage, pain, or are ready to explore your restorative options, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to give you a stronger, healthier, more confident smile. Whether your tooth has fractured, weakened from decay, or simply needs extra support, a dental crown can restore its strength and function — and help you smile confidently again. At Billings West Dental, Dr. Low customizes every crown to look natural, feel comfortable, and last for years, all while providing gentle, patient-centered care.

This guide will walk you through what dental crowns are, why they’re needed, what they’re made of, and exactly what to expect during treatment.

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What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown, or “cap,” is a custom-made restoration fully covering and protecting the damaged or compromised tooth. At Billings West Dental, we use crowns when a tooth has fractured, when decay is too extensive for a filling, or when we need to restore strength and function after a root canal or other restorative treatment.

A crown serves two important roles:

• Protection: It shields the remaining healthy tooth structure from further damage.
• Functionality: It restores the ability to chew, bite, and speak naturally.

This simple restorative procedure is typically completed in two visits. During the first, your tooth is prepared and impressions are taken. During the second, your custom-made crown is fitted and securely bonded into place. Once in place, the crown looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth — often better.

In addition to their restorative benefits, crowns are also frequently used for cosmetic cases and smile makeovers, improving the shape, size, color, and alignment of teeth.

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When Is a Dental Crown Needed?

Dr. Low may recommend a dental crown for several reasons, including:

• Fractured or broken teeth: Reinforce and protect a tooth from further breakage.
• Extensive decay: If a cavity is too large for a filling, a crown is the best way to restore structure.
• After a root canal: Protect the treated tooth and restore full function.
• Large existing fillings: Support teeth weakened by previous dental work.
• Cosmetic improvements: They can correct discoloration, shape issues, or alignment concerns.

Whatever the reason, the result is the same — a strong, natural-looking tooth that restores your smile and confidence.

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The Dental Crown Procedure: Step-by-Step

At Billings West Dental, we make the crown process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Exam and Tooth Preparation

Dr. Low begins with a thorough exam and any necessary X-rays. The damaged tooth is then carefully shaped to create space for the crown.

2. Impression and Temporary Crown

After reshaping, an impression of your tooth is taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom crown is created. You’ll wear a temporary crown to protect your tooth until your permanent one is ready.

3. Final Placement

At your second appointment, Dr. Low will remove the temporary crown and bond the permanent one into place. We ensure the fit, bite, and color are perfect before polishing it for a natural finish.

The entire process is typically completed in two visits — and once your crown is in place, you can enjoy a stronger, healthier smile for years to come.

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What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?

At Billings West Dental, every crown is custom-designed and shaped to match your natural teeth. We offer three high-quality materials:

• Porcelain: Popular for front teeth because it closely mimics the appearance of natural enamel.
• Zirconia: Extremely durable and highly aesthetic, zirconia crowns are ideal for both front and back teeth.
• Gold: Known for its strength and longevity, gold is often used for molars that endure heavy chewing.

While gold is still used in certain situations, most patients choose porcelain or zirconia because they can be color-matched to your smile and offer both strength and beauty.

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Are Dental Crowns Painful? (And How Sedation Can Help)

Most patients find the dental crown process comfortable, thanks to modern oral sedation options. You’ll feel little to no discomfort during the procedure, and any sensitivity afterward usually subsides within a few days.

If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you need, Billings West Dental offers conscious oral sedation to make your experience more relaxed. With this option, you’ll take a prescribed medication at our office before your appointment. You’ll remain awake but feel calm and at ease — and many patients remember very little about the procedure afterward. It’s important to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment, as sedation effects can last several hours.

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How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are designed for longevity. With proper care, they typically last 10 to 15 years, and many last 20 years or more. To extend the life of your crown:

• Brush and floss daily to prevent decay around the edges.
• Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or pens.
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth.

Dr. Low will also check your crown during routine visits to ensure it remains secure and functioning properly.

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Caring for Your New Dental Crown

Once your crown is in place, it doesn’t require any special care — just good daily oral hygiene. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and maintain regular dental visits. If your crown ever feels loose, cracked, or uncomfortable, contact Billings West Dental right away so we can address it before it becomes a bigger issue.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

How long do dental crowns last?
Most crowns last 10 to 15 years, and with excellent care, they can last decades. Regular checkups are the best way to ensure long-term success.

How much do dental crowns cost?
Costs vary based on materials and complexity, but most crowns range from $800 to $1,500 per tooth.

**These are estimates — contact Billings West Dental in Billings, MT, for more accurate pricing tailored to your treatment plan.

Can a dental crown fall off?
It’s rare, but crowns can become loose or dislodged over time. If this happens, contact us right away so we can repair or replace it.

Will my crown look natural?
Yes. Crowns are custom-made to match your natural teeth in shape, size, and color. Most people won’t even know you have one.

Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
Absolutely. Once your permanent crown is placed, you can enjoy your favorite foods again. Just avoid chewing on extremely hard objects to protect the crown’s integrity.

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Restore Your Smile with a Custom Dental Crown

A dental crown is one of the most effective ways to protect, restore, and enhance your smile. Whether you’re repairing a damaged tooth, strengthening it after a root canal, or improving its appearance for a cosmetic makeover, Dr. Low and the team at Billings West Dental in Billings, MT are here to help.