Crown Types

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I went to the dentist yesterday and was told that I needed a crown. I have dental insurance and was surprised to hear that the crown would cost me $275.  I told him the crown would just have to wait since he wanted half down.

I checked my dental plan when I got home and saw that a stainless steel crown costs me nothing under my plan.  Since the crown is in the back of my mouth, I thought this was the solution.  However, when I called, I was told that a stainless steel crown was only a temporary crown. Is this true?  If so, how long does a "temporary" crown last?

Also, upon looking at my teeth, the dentist said that my tooth would PROBABLY need a crown.  Do I have another option?  Can he fill it? $275 is a lot of money for me right now - especially since the concept of monthly payment seems to no longer exist. Does the Baylor School of Dentistry take patients?  What is the cost? Do you have any suggestions? I would greatly appreciate it.
 


There are several questions here.  We don't know exactly what tooth it is, and we aren't sure if it is a permanent or 'baby' tooth.  I will assume that we are talking about a molar in an adult mouth.  It is also important to know the current status of the tooth, ie, decay, condition of the previous filling, general state of your teeth, and the history of fractures, dietary habits, grinding and many other things.  Many posterior teeth with large aging fillings are very susceptible to fracture, which could potentially result in the loss of the tooth.

The best way to restore the tooth and prevent future problems is with a crown, because this covers the top surface of the tooth so that it can't fracture.  A stainless steel crown is only a temporary cure, and my be unhealthy for the gums and surrounding area due to an inaccurate fit.  I'm sorry I can't give you a 'yes or no' answer without evaluating the situation myself.

Baylor does see patients.  The cost of dental care at the school is considerably less than other offices.  Care is very high quality, and it may take longer to complete care than in a private office.  My suggestion is that you call the school and ask for an evaluation and diagnosis appointment.   This is when you would receive a complete dental examination and be advised of what you need and how much it would cost, etc.  Thanks for visiting our website. 

Charles W. Wakefield, DDS
Associate Professor, Director
Advanced Education in General Denitstry Clinic
 

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