An Investment in Your Smile
When a tooth is damaged, cracked, or severely decayed, finding a solution that restores both function and aesthetics is a top priority. However, we understand that for many patients, the financial aspect of restorative dentistry is just as important as the clinical outcome. At Trail Ridge Dental, we believe in transparency regarding the value and cost of your care. Whether you visit our office in Longmont or our location in Johnstown, Dr. Sean Visger and our dedicated team are here to help you navigate your options and find a solution that fits your budget.
A dental crown is a versatile restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, acting as a protective “cap.” It is often the last line of defense to save a natural tooth from extraction. By understanding the factors that influence the cost of dental crowns and the long-term value they provide, you can make an informed decision about your oral health. We are proud to be the “dentist’s office near you” that combines advanced technology with accessible, high-quality care to ensure you receive a beautiful smile from our Colorado dentist.
If you have questions about the technology we use, please call our dental office in Johnstown at 970-593-1010 or our Longmont office at 303-772-6960.
What Contributes to the Cost of a Crown?
When evaluating the investment required for a dental crown, it is essential to consider the various elements that contribute to the final cost. A crown is not merely a product; it is a custom-medical device and a structural necessity for a compromised tooth. The fee for a crown typically encompasses several critical factors:
- Professional Expertise: You are investing in the training and skill of Dr. Visger and our team, ensuring your restoration is placed correctly for long-term comfort and function.
- Advanced Technology: The use of digital imaging and milling equipment allows for precise fits and durable results.
- Material Quality: We use high-quality ceramics that offer superior strength and aesthetics compared to cheaper metal alternatives.
- Efficiency: The ability to complete the procedure quickly and accurately saves you time, which is a valuable resource.
At Trail Ridge Dental, we strive to keep our costs competitive while maintaining the highest standard of general dentistry. We utilize state-of-the-art CEREC® technology to provide Same Day Crowns. This advanced system allows us to design, mill, and place your permanent restoration in a single visit. This efficiency translates to direct value for you by eliminating the need for temporary crowns, messy impressions, and multiple trips to the office.
The Financial Impact of Waiting
Ignoring a damaged tooth can lead to significantly higher costs down the road. Tooth decay that is left untreated will eventually penetrate the enamel and infect the inner pulp of the tooth. When this happens, you may experience a severe toothache or infection, necessitating root canal therapy to save the tooth. After a root canal, the tooth becomes brittle and almost always requires a crown to prevent it from fracturing.
If a tooth cracks or breaks beyond repair, the only remaining option is tooth extractions to remove it. Losing a tooth creates a gap that can cause surrounding teeth to shift, leading to bite alignment issues and jaw bone deterioration. Replacing a missing tooth with a bridge or implant is a more substantial financial investment than simply crowning and saving the natural tooth in the first place. By acting quickly, you protect your mouth from further disease and expense.
Comparing Restoration Costs
When considering the cost of a crown, it is helpful to compare it to the alternatives for tooth replacement. If a tooth is not restored with a crown and is subsequently lost, the financial burden increases.
A dental bridge involves crowning the adjacent healthy teeth to support a prosthetic tooth. This means you are paying for the restoration of three teeth to replace one. Alternatively, a dental implant is the gold standard for replacement. While we offer implants as an excellent service, the procedure involves placing a titanium post into the bone and attaching a crown. This is a more complex process than placing a crown on a natural tooth. Therefore, saving your natural tooth with a crown is almost always the most cost-effective and conservative option.
To discuss which restorative option is right for your specific situation, call our office at 970-593-1010 or 303-772-6960 today.
Navigating Dental Insurance
We know that navigating dental insurance can be confusing. Coverage for crowns varies by provider and plan. Typically, crowns are categorized as major restorative services, and many plans will cover a significant portion of the cost after your deductible has been met. However, every policy is different regarding annual maximums and waiting periods.
Our administrative team is highly skilled at interpreting insurance policies and will work diligently to help you maximize your benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. We can perform a benefits check to provide you with a more accurate estimate of your co-pay before treatment begins, ensuring there are no surprises.
Financing and Membership Options
We believe that a lack of insurance should not prevent you from receiving the quality healthcare you deserve. For patients without traditional coverage, we offer the Trail Ridge Membership Club. This is an excellent alternative that makes general dental care and restorative treatments more affordable and predictable.
By joining our membership club, you gain access to covered preventive care, such as cleanings and exams, and receive valuable discounts on other services, including dental crowns. We have annual plans designed for adults, children, and patients completing periodontal therapy. This program eliminates the hassle of insurance claim forms, waiting periods, and deductibles. It is our way of ensuring that high-quality care is accessible to everyone in our community.
Cosmetic Benefits and Value 
While the primary function of a crown is restorative, the aesthetic benefits contribute to its overall value. In the past, crowns were often made of metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal, which could leave a dark line near the gum tissue. Our CEREC® crowns are made from high-quality ceramic that mimics the translucency and color of natural enamel.
This makes crowns an effective tool in cosmetic dentistry. They can be used to cover teeth that are severely discolored, misshapen, or out of alignment. If you are considering a smile makeover, crowns can be combined with other services like veneers or whitening to achieve a seamless, radiant look. Investing in a crown improves not just your health, but your confidence.
If you are looking for “dentists near you” who prioritize aesthetic results, contact Trail Ridge Dental at 970-593-1010 (Johnstown) or 303-772-6960 (Longmont).
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, a dental crown can last for many years, making it a sound long-term investment. The longevity of the restoration depends on your oral hygiene habits and diet. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting Trail Ridge Dental for regular checkups will help extend the life of your crown. Avoiding habits like chewing ice or using your teeth as tools prevents fractures and ensures you get the most value from your restoration.
Yes, we offer a Free Smile Makeover Consultation. This is a risk-free way to discuss your goals, whether they involve crowns, implants, or cosmetic improvements. During this visit, we can provide a detailed breakdown of costs and discuss financing or membership options so you can make a decision that fits your budget.
Yes, crowns can sometimes be used for “instant orthodontics.” By reshaping the tooth and placing a crown, we can alter its appearance to make it look straighter and more aligned with the rest of your smile. However, for significant misalignment, we may recommend Sure Smile clear aligners to correct the position of the teeth without removing healthy enamel.
If an old crown falls off or breaks, this is considered a dental emergency. It is important to contact us immediately to protect the underlying tooth from damage and sensitivity. Because we offer same-day technology, we can often replace the restoration in a single visit, getting you out of pain and back to your routine quickly.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let financial uncertainty prevent you from saving your natural teeth. At Trail Ridge Dental, we are committed to providing transparent information, advanced technology, and compassionate care. We are the top dentists near you serving the Longmont and Johnstown communities with pride.
If you’re ready to restore your smile, call our Colorado dentist near you in Johnstown at 970-593-1010 or Longmont at 303-772-6960 today.