A handy guide to dental crowns in Chevy Chase, Maryland: What they are, why you need them, how they’re done
Crowns are a crowning achievement in dentistry. They can be used to preserve badly damaged tooth structure and also be used to rebuild a tooth as part of a dental bridge or from the “root up” (with dental implants). So, dental crowns are incredibly versatile. And, when in the skilled hands of the experienced professionals at Health 360 Dental in Chevy Chase, MD, crowns are exceptionally durable, long-lasting, and natural in appearance.
Crowns, defined
A crown is a type of dental restoration. Restorations are designed to replicate a portion of the tooth structure that is lost due to damage, such as decay. In turn, the crown restores the feel, function, aesthetics, and health of the tooth. Crowns make the damaged tooth “whole” again. The crown itself is made from a durable dental material. If crowns are appropriate for you, our dentists, Drs Hosaka or Cassis, will discuss your options for materials. The material is color-matched and shaped. So, it blends in with the surrounding teeth and looks and feels like a real tooth structure.
After damaged tissue is removed, the crown is placed on the prepared site. Once minor adjustments are made, as needed, and all looks well, the crown is fixed securely into place. In this way, the crown fits over the natural tooth like crowns (or “caps,” as the restoration is also known) fit over people’s heads.
Crown candidates
Dental crowns may be recommended if you have damage that cannot be treated sufficiently with a large filling. Big fillings are not an attractive treatment option because they may not have the support or structure to withstand the forces from chewing and other functions over the long term. Crowns often follow root canal therapy to resolve deep decay and inflammation, and infections at the center of the tooth (the pulp tissue). Additionally, crowns are placed on the abutment teeth that support a replacement tooth (pontic) in a dental bridge. They also represent the final step in tooth replacement with dental implants. Crowns and other types of restorations, such as dentures, are stabilized in the mouth with implants strategically placed in the jawbone.
Smile confidently and without pain today!
We can place crowns in just two visits: The first appointment involves preparing the natural tooth and crown. Once the crown is made, you’ll return to our office for a second visit. We’ll remove the temporary crown that was applied to protect the treatment site. The crown that our skilled lab partners make is then placed. Adjustments are made before cementing it. Crowns can be enjoyed for years to come with good oral care at home and hygiene appointments at our office. Start the process today. Call us at (301) 686-5255 to schedule your visit.
