Dental crowns are an important restoration tool dentists use for both cosmetic and restorative procedures. Dr. Justin Deckard, an experienced dentist providing dental crowns in Washington D.C., answers the most frequently asked questions regarding dental crowns and what they do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Question: What does a dental crown actually do?
Answer: Simply speaking, a dental crown is a cap that goes over your tooth. It provides stability, function, and other features to keep your smile at its best. Dental crowns can also be attached to a dental implant, completing the final restoration of your missing teeth.
Crowns are commonly used after undergoing a root canal procedure since the interior of the tooth is infected and taken out. This helps strengthen the tooth so you can continue using it. They can also be used to repair a chipped or cracked tooth, replace damaged fillings, change the shape of a misshapen tooth, or eliminate the appearance of stained and discolored teeth.
Question: What are dental crowns made out of?
Answer: When you’re getting a dental crown, you want it to blend in with your smile as much as possible. Each one of our dental crowns is made with porcelain dental ceramic. This material can be color-matched to go with the rest of your smile and is stain-resistant and durable. Crowns can last up to 30 years if they’re properly taken care of.
Question: What are same-day dental crowns?
Answer: When you hear about same-day dental crowns, it’s referring to CEREC technology. Getting a dental crown in a normal way can be pretty time consuming and requires multiple dental visits. With same-day crowns, Dr. Deckard can make your crown right in the office in only one visit. The dentist will check to see if you’re eligible for this form of restoration.
Question: What should I expect from the dental crown process?
Answer: First, Dr. Deckard would perform a full evaluation of your mouth and teeth. He’ll also talk to you about your cosmetic goals and why the dental crown is needed. Once it’s determined that this is the solution you need, Dr. Deckard will prepare the tooth. This means that a layer of the outside enamel of the tooth is shaven off. This is to make sure the crown has room and so the final bonding will go better.
Then, impressions will be made of the mouth after the tooth or teeth have been prepared. This will lead to a crown that’s customized to your mouth. The size and shape will blend perfectly with your smile. The crown will also be color-matched to your smile. If you’re eligible for same-day crowns, it’ll start being made right in the office.
If you have to do the traditional crown method, you’ll be fitted with a temporary crown until your custom crown is made. You’ll come back into the office and check the fit of your new crown. Dr. Deckard will make any adjustments if necessary. Then, the crown is permanently bonded to your tooth.
Getting Dental Crowns in Washington D.C.
At D.C. Precision Dentistry, our team is dedicated to fitting you with dental crowns you’ll love. Call us today or schedule an appointment online!