Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns

Your guide to what a crown is, how it’s done, and what it might cost

If you’re considering a dental crown to restore a damaged, cracked, or heavily filled tooth, you’re not alone — many patients in the Spring Valley area of Las Vegas seek this service every year. Whether it’s due to decay, a large filling, or after a root canal, a crown can protect and restore your smile. Below is everything you should know about the process and the potential costs around Spring Valley.

A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that covers a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials — including ceramic, porcelain, zirconia, or metal — and are designed to match your surrounding teeth. Crowns are durable and often last many years with good oral hygiene. 

Step-by-Step: What to Expect

1. Consultation & Evaluation

First, you’ll need to come in for a full exam. This is where I take the time to evaluate the tooth with an x-rays. This helps them determine whether a crown is appropriate and what kind you might need.

2. Tooth Preparation

If we decide that your tooth needs a crown, you’ll have to come back for another appointment. I numb the area, remove any decay, and shape the tooth so the crown can sits on top of it properly.

3. Impressions or Digital Scanning

An impression needs to be taken and sent to a lab. Depending on the type of crown you need and the shape of your tooth, we’ll either use a physical, traditionally impression or opt for a digital one.

4. Temporary Crown 

We make a temporary crown for you, which is placed on the tooth to prevent sensitivity, new decay, and movement of your other teeth while the permanent one is crafted — typically 1–2 weeks.

5. Final Crown Placement

Once the final crown is ready, we’ll schedule you back for a second appointment. Here, we’ll cement or bond the crown in place, checking your bite and fit for comfort.

Aftercare

It’s common to have some sensitivity or tenderness after anesthesia wears off — this usually fades in a few days. Good oral hygiene — brushing twice daily, flossing, and regular dental check-ups — helps crowns last longer.

How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost in Spring Valley, Chinatown Las Vegas?

Costs vary widely depending on the material, what lab makes the crown, and any additional procedures (like post buildup or root canal work). Here’s a general idea:

Typical Price Ranges

• Ceramic / Porcelain crowns (tooth colored): ~$1000–$3,000+ per tooth
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal: ~$800–$1,500+ per tooth

Average dental practice pricing in the Las Vegas area often falls around $800–$2,000 per crown before insurance, though higher or lower amounts are possible. 

Insurance and Other Costs

Many dental insurance plans cover part of the crown cost (often around 50% of the allowed amount) if it’s considered medically necessary — i.e., for restoring function or health rather than strictly cosmetic reasons. Your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your specific plan and annual maximum benefits. 

Additional services (X-rays, consultations, temporary crowns, or treatment like root canals) can add to the total cost.

Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown

1. Restores Strength and Function

A crown covers and protects a weakened tooth, allowing you to chew normally again. This is especially important after large fillings or root canal treatment.

2. Prevents Further Damage

Crowns help stop cracks from spreading and protect the tooth from additional decay or fracture, potentially preventing tooth loss.

3. Improves Appearance

Modern crowns (porcelain or zirconia) are color-matched to your natural teeth, restoring a healthy, natural-looking smile.

4. Long-Lasting Solution

With proper care, dental crowns can last 10–15 years or longer, making them a durable and cost-effective option over time.

5. Supports Other Dental Treatments

Crowns are essential for holding dental bridges in place and for restoring dental implants.

Risks of Dental Crowns

1. Tooth Reduction

Some natural tooth structure must be removed to fit the crown. This process is irreversible, which is why crowns are typically recommended only when necessary.

2. Sensitivity or Discomfort

Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold is common, especially after placement. It usually resolves within a few days or weeks.

3. Risk of Nerve Damage

In rare cases, the tooth nerve may become irritated or inflamed, possibly leading to the need for a root canal later on.

4. Crown Damage or Wear

Crowns can chip or crack, particularly porcelain crowns under heavy biting forces or teeth grinding.

5. Crown Loosening or Loss

If cement fails or decay develops underneath, the crown may loosen or fall off, requiring repair or replacement.

6. Cost

Crowns are more expensive than fillings. Even with insurance, there may be significant out-of-pocket costs.

How to Reduce the Risks

1. Choose the right crown material for your bite and tooth location

2. Maintain excellent oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, regular checkups)

3. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or using teeth as tools

4. Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth

5. Address discomfort or bite issues early

Is a Dental Crown Worth It?

For teeth that are cracked, heavily filled, worn, or weakened, the benefits of a crown often outweigh the risks. Crowns can save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction, preserving your natural bite and smile.