Dental Crowns – Waldorf, MD
Protect Decayed Teeth from Harm
Even if you’re a top-notch brusher and flosser, your teeth can still suffer decay. There’s no need to feel ashamed – it happens to the best of us! Still, this damage isn’t something you have to endure. You could always get dental crowns to fix your pearly whites. Provided by Dr. Akinwande and her team, these prosthetics both protect teeth and help them look new. You’re thus guaranteed to receive major smile improvements. As for the details on our dental crowns, just keep reading or call our office.
What is a Dental Crown?
In essence, a dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that fits over a weakened tooth. Its main use is to restore the treated area’s structure, function and looks.
In light of dental crowns’ features, the best candidates for them have one (or more) of the following:
- A large cavity that a filling can’t treat
- Severe dental injuries
- A weakened smile in need of extra support
- Recently-received root canal therapy
- Cosmetic imperfections they wish to address
Based on your situation, our team will walk you through the crown process to ensure proper care.
The Dental Crown Process
Generally, dental crown treatment involves three steps: consultation, prep work, and final placement.
For the consultation, you’ll discuss treatment factors with Dr. Akinwande. In particular, you’ll tell her about your smile goals, oral health needs, medical history, etc. Doing so lets her confirm whether a dental crown might work for you. If it would, the visit will also determine the material for your restoration – ceramic, porcelain, zirconia, or precious metals.
Following the consult, your tooth will be prepped for its future crown. This work removes bits of your enamel, ensuring the restoration lays flush with surrounding teeth. From there, the dentist will take an impression of the prepped tooth and place a temporary crown. You’ll wear the latter prosthetic while a lab makes the final one.
When the permanent crown is ready, you’ll return for placement. We’ll then place the restoration over your tooth. Our staff will also explain how best to care for your new crown.
The Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown
Once you’ve gotten your final crown, you’ll experience a wide range of benefits. The most common of these include:
- Tooth Protection: A dental crown protects your tooth’s damaged area from bacteria. As such, it’ll prevent the need for invasive procedures in the future. You won’t have to worry about getting root canal therapy, tooth extraction, etc.
- A Great-Looking Smile: Today’s crown materials allow you to expect treatment results that blend seamlessly with your smile. People won’t be able to tell your crowned tooth apart from other ones.
- High Comfort: Since a crown “caps” a tooth’s jagged area, it helps your mouth feel comfortable and chew food more easily.
- Long-Lasting Results: Properly maintained, a crown can last 15 years or more.
Dental Crowns FAQs
Dental crowns in Waldorf have been used for decades because of their versatility and reliability. However, it's normal to have concerns about the road ahead. Your dentist will explain everything during your consultation, so you know exactly what to expect on the road ahead. In the meantime, you can find the answers to the most frequently asked questions below or contact our office to speak with a member of our office.
Does It Hurt to Get a Dental Crown?
You don't have to worry about any pain because your dentist will use a local numbing agent. You may feel some unusual sensations or pressure, but you won't have any pain. You may experience temporary tenderness after the effects of any numbing agents wear off. You can manage it with an over-the-counter pain reliever. Eat soft foods until your discomfort improves.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
Dental crowns aren't permanent because they must be replaced, eventually. They aren't reversible because your dentist must reshape your tooth to allow the crown to fit over it. Your tooth won't grow back if your restoration is removed. It can be at risk of damage if it isn't always covered by a crown. Thankfully, you won't have to budget for replacements.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The average lifespan of a dental crown is about 10 years, but many factors affect the life expectancy, like the materials used. It's not unusual for dental crowns to last for much longer with the correct care, like good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes. Floss every day, paying extra attention to where your crown meets your gum line. Avoid any hard or sticky foods and limit sugars and starches. Don't forget to visit your dentist every 6 months for cleaning and checkup to get the most from your investment.
Can Dental Crowns Get Cavities?
Crowns can't get cavities, but your underlying tooth is still at risk. Plaque and tartar harbor bacteria that can gain access to your tooth through small cracks that form in the dental cement over time. You can keep cavities at bay with good oral hygiene and regular dental care.
Can You Use Teeth Whitening on Dental Crowns?
Modern restorations are made of all-ceramic materials, which are stain-resistant. However, your teeth can still change color, making your crown stand out. Teeth whitening can lighten your enamel, but it won't have any effect on the color of your restoration. Your dentist in Waldorf will advise against whitening treatments because they can weaken the bonding material holding your crown in place. Instead, they'll create a personalized treatment plan for a radiant smile.