Dentist in Silver Spring
What are dental crowns?
Crowns are like hard, protective “jackets” designed to cover your tooth and correct defects like big cavities and further protecting the tooth from decay. Crowns can be made of zirconium, porcelain or a combination of the two. These materials are made strong enough to withstand the pressures of regular chewing and biting. They are also the color or your natural teeth so they blend and match.
How are dental crowns used?
Dental crowns are commonly used to correct cracks, chips, and broken teeth and also protecting them from further damage and decay. In certain cases, they used to strengthen and preserve teeth with large fillings which are prone to breaking and or fracturing. They are also the STANDARD OF CARE after a tooth has a root canal.
What is the procedure like?
Crowns are prepared and delivered in two appointments. In the initial appointment, your tooth will be prepared or shaped. After this step, an Impression of the new shape is taken and the Laboratory will use this impression which can be a digital impression (depending on the case) to fabricated a custom made crown for it. At the end of this first appointment, your tooth will have a temporary crown placed on it. During the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the permanent custom made crown will be tried in and if it passes all the test, it will be glued/bonded onto your tooth.
Do crowns require special care?
No, your crown can be cared for just like your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits to ensure the crown, tooth and gums are in the best shape possible.
How long will my crown last?
Crows are designed to last a long time – sometimes as long as 20 years. The life of your crown will depend on how well you care for it as well as personal habits like tooth grinding or clenching, which can damage your crown just like they can damage your natural teeth.
Call us today at 301-565-4555 to make an appointment in our Silver Spring Maryland office with Dr. Nima Raoufinia to review your oral health and discuss the different options that are available to you.