You may be looking at restoring severely damaged teeth or improving aesthetics, but dental crowns remain an excellent solution for many situations. As your trusted dentists in Gaithersburg and Kensington, we want patients to fully understand what to expect from this proven treatment.
Why Are Crowns Needed?
There are numerous reasons one might require crowns, including:
- Protecting a weak tooth from fracturing after a large filling
- Covering and strengthening a tooth with a sizeable decay removal or previous root canal
- Masking severely stained, chipped, or misshapen teeth
- Biting down on a broken tooth risks splintering without a crown
- Aligning crooked teeth more attractively through cosmetic crowning
Types of Crowns
Our office offers various crown materials suited to different needs, such as:
- Porcelain fused to noble metal: Strong and natural-looking
- All-ceramic zirconia or lithium disilicate: Very lifelike aesthetics
- Metal alloy crowns: Durable for posterior wear
- Temporary aesthetic crowns: Used during reconstruction
Procedure Overview
After thorough cleaning and examination, qualified dentists prepare the tooth by gently shaping the remaining portions. Molding creates a precise impression sent to a dental lab. Approximately two weeks later, the permanent crown arrives for trying in and cementation. Proper anesthesia ensures patient comfort.
Longevity and Maintenance
Properly fitted crowns on healthy teeth routinely last 10-15 years with excellent oral hygiene. Self-care includes regular dental visits, avoiding excessive pressure during chewing, as well as using soft-bristled brushes and floss. Ask us about specific crown care.
We hope this overview empowers you to make informed choices. Feel free to request more information – our goal remains your healthy, confident smile!
