Crowns in Gaithersburg, MD
Teeth can weaken over time, leading to issues like decay, cracks, and discoloration. Crowns can restore your smile when needed, especially if decay or damage is detected by your dentist. Fillings or bonding may not suffice in such cases.
Crowns can be made from porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or a full gold crown. To maintain a natural look and feel, a porcelain-finished crown is best, as it can be matched to the shade of your other teeth. This will allow it to blend in and appear just like one of your natural teeth.
The Process of Installing a Crown
The crown installation process typically involves 2–3 dental visits. During the first visit, your tooth will be reshaped, and a local anesthetic will be administered for your comfort. A mold of the tooth and surrounding area will be taken and sent to a dental lab for your custom crown. You’ll leave the first visit with a temporary crown until your permanent one is ready.
The Timeline of Dental Crown Restoration
The crown takes about 2–3 weeks to be returned to your dentist. At this time, you will have another appointment to place and fit the permanent crown. You will again have a local anesthetic to numb the area, and the tooth will be placed using cement to ensure the tooth sets in place. When you look in the mirror, you will see your old smile back. Crowns are durable and will usually last about 10–15 years. You should care for it as you would any of your other teeth, with regular brushing and flossing. Call us today if you would like to learn more about how crowns can help restore your smile.
