Dental Crowns—Chevy Chase, MD
Make Damaged Teeth Like New
Dental crowns are one of the most common treatments that Dr. Annie Yu and our team provide here at Avant Dentistry, and that’s because they’re so versatile and effective. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked, broken, or decayed tooth, we can repair it so it seems like nothing was ever wrong in the first place. To learn more about the process of getting a dental crown in Chevy Chase ahead of scheduling your appointment, just keep reading the helpful page below.
Why Choose Avant Dentistry for Dental Crowns?
- Master of the Academy of General Dentistry
- Strong, Natural-Looking Porcelain Dental Crowns
- Mess-Free Digital Dental Impressions
What is a Dental Crown?
Sometimes referred to as a “cap,” a dental crown is a tooth-shaped restoration that is fitted over damaged enamel to bring back its original strength, shape, and function. It’s multipurpose in that it can enhance both the appearance and health of a tooth, and we frequently use them to help patients dealing with dental trauma, large cavities, or sizeable fillings that are starting to break down.
Traditionally, crowns were made from metals like silver or gold, but at Avant Dentistry, we prefer to use all-porcelain crowns. They not only look perfectly natural, but they are also just as durable as metal and don’t cause as much temperature sensitivity.
The Dental Crown Process
The entire procedure is typically completed over the course of two appointments. At the first one, Dr. Yu will examine your tooth and determine if a crown would be a good fit for your situation. If you both agree that this is the case, she will start by numbing your mouth and slightly reshaping the tooth. This involves removing any broken or decayed enamel to ensure there will be enough room for your new crown.
Once your tooth is ready, a digital impression will be taken (no putty!), and this information will be sent to our dental lab which will fabricate your crown. It usually takes about a week or two to be ready, and in the meantime, you’ll be fitted with a temporary crown.
You’ll eventually return to our office where Dr. Yu will swap your temporary for your permanent crown, cementing it into place before making any final adjustments.
The Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown
- Saves a distressed tooth and allows a patient to avoid having to get an extraction
- Much more affordable than extracting and replacing a tooth
- Enhances the appearance of a tooth as well as its health
- Stops a cavity from becoming worse
- Balances the bite to prevent TMJ issues
- Porcelain crowns seamlessly blend with nearby teeth
- Easier to eat and speak comfortably
- Protects the dental nerve, reducing pain and sensitivity
Dental Crowns FAQS
Dental crowns in Chevy Chase provide protection for damaged teeth. They've held commonplace in dentistry for generations; however, it's normal to have concerns about the road ahead. Dr. Annie Yu will address your concerns and explain what you can expect during your consultation for a dental crown. You can also find the answers to the most frequently asked questions below or contact our office to speak with a member of our dental team.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
A dental crown is not permanent because it must be replaced about every 10 years. Your tooth must always be covered by a restoration because Dr. Yu must reshape your enamel to allow the custom cap to fit over it. Your enamel won't grow back if your crown is removed. Our crowns are made of high-quality materials that are designed to last, so you won't need to budget for replacements often.
Does It Hurt to Get a Dental Crown?
Your dentist in Chevy Chase will keep your comfort as her top priority. She may use a numbing medication to block pain while prepping your tooth for your restoration. Bonding a crown to a tooth is painless. However, your mouth might be a little tender for a couple of days after any numbing medications wear off. Eating soft foods and taking OTC pain relievers will keep you comfortable.
Can Dental Crowns Get Cavities?
Dental crowns aren't vulnerable to cavity-causing bacteria, but your underlying tooth and exposed teeth can still decay. Poor oral hygiene can cause plaque and tartar buildup near your gum line, which harbors bacteria. Small cracks will form in the dental cement that hold your crown in place over time. Bacteria can gain access to your tooth, causing a cavity underneath your crown. Good oral hygiene and regular dental care can reduce your risk. Limit sugars and starches to promote a cavity-free smile.
Does Teeth Whitening Work on Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are made of porcelain, which is stain-resistant, so your restoration shouldn't discolor. Crowns aren’t porous, unlike enamel, so whitening products won't have any effect on their color. Your teeth will get whiter, but your crown will be unchanged, which can make it stand out. Whitening agents can also weaken the bonding materials holding your crown in place. It's best to skip the risks. Dr. Yu can create a personalized treatment plan to restore a vibrant smile.