A dental crown is a prosthetic that repairs a damaged or decayed tooth, and strengthens a tooth after a root canal. Our dentists can even use crowns to cap a dental implant. Dental crowns are a permanent dental restoration that supports the stability of your bite and overall oral health. We can treat a range of oral health and cosmetic-related concerns using dental crowns, and provide lasting results.
Our affordable dental crowns consist of high-quality porcelain that reflects light for a natural luster. Our dental practice customizes the shape and color of the porcelain crowns so they blend in with the adjacent teeth.
Rockville, MD dentist Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh has over 23 years of experience providing cosmetic and restorative treatments. Dr. Sarkarzadeh helps patients restore the aesthetics and stability of their mouth using personalized dental care and quality materials.
Treatment with Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a highly versatile dental restoration. Our dentists can use them to treat both cosmetic and restorative issues. Dental crowns can:
- Replace a large filling.
- Cover a dental implant.
- Replace a broken tooth or a severely worn down tooth.
- Cover a tooth that has had a root canal.
- Strengthen a weak tooth.
- Improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.
- Top-off teeth in a dental bridge.
Dr. Sarkarzadeh will design the dental crown to meet the cosmetic goals of the individual patient. Because the use of a dental crown can vary, treatment will depend on the oral health and needs of each patient. Dr. Sarkarzadeh will make sure that each patient understands their dental crown treatment before beginning any dental work. We want to fully inform and prepare you before any treatment begins so that you are confident in our work.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a versatile dental restoration that we offer. There are many types of crowns available to accommodate the various situations we may recommend a dental crown.
Dental Crown for a Root Canal Procedure
A dentist removes infected tissue from the root canal of the tooth during a root canal treatment. Removing tissue from the tooth structure can compromise the integrity of the tooth. Therefore, the dentist places a dental crown to provide added structure and protection.
Our dentists will cap the treated tooth after a root canal procedure for added stability using a custom crown. The crown will also protect the tooth from future decay or damage.
Cosmetic Dental Crown
Our dentists can use ceramic crowns to address your cosmetic dental concerns. Dental crowns can fix tooth stains, a misshapen tooth, or a broken and chipped tooth. Dr. Sarkarzadeh custom-designs the dental crown to give you a natural and lasting restoration. He will restore beauty to your mouth and not compromise the function of your bite at the same time.
Implant-secured Dental Crown
Dental crowns anchor to a dental implant for a natural and durable replacement of a missing tooth. We surgically implant a small dental implant post, consisting of medical-grade titanium, into your jawbone. The implant replaces the missing tooth root structure and fuses with the bone to support the jaw.
Then, we attach a dental crown to the dental implant to create a permanent long-term replacement. This option does take longer to place, however the longevity of the restoration extends far past traditional crowns. Supporting a crown with an implant also reduces the risk of jawbone loss.
The Dental Crown Process
The dental crown procedure involves at least two trips to our Rockville dental office. At your first appointment, we will prepare the tooth to accommodate the crown. Our dentist will remove the old filling or crown from your teeth and clean out any decay. We will also remove some of the outer surfaces of the tooth to create room for your new dental crown.
Next, we will take dental impressions of your teeth and send them to the lab so they can fabricate your new permanent crown. Dr. Sarkarzadeh will make sure that the dental lab matches your new crown to the color, shape, and size of your natural tooth enamel. This will ensure that your dental prosthetic will match the rest of your smile. Our dentist may place a temporary tooth-colored crown as a placeholder until your custom-made one is ready.
The second appointment involves placing the new crown. We will remove the temporary one and have you try your new one on to ensure that the fit is right. Once you are happy with the look and feel, we will permanently bond the crown to the damaged tooth and gently polish it.
Dental Crowns FAQs
Do you have further questions about how dental crowns can restore your smile? Continue reading to learn more and find answers to commonly asked questions.
Can you whiten an old crown?
You can take steps to brighten your crown at home, but you can’t whiten porcelain or composite dental crowns with traditional teeth whitening. Modern dental crowns are highly resistant to discoloration, so it’s better to completely replace an old crown.
Can you repair a chipped crown?
Yes, your dentist can repair it without having to replace it completely if the damage to the crown is not significant. If the damage is causing severe pain or sensitivity, you may need to replace it. Don’t use the affected tooth until your dentist repairs it. Without treatment, you can cause further damage and an infection may develop under the crown.
Is a dental crown noticeable?
Today’s modern dental crowns that consist of porcelain or composite resin are virtually unnoticeable. They blend in with your natural teeth because we can accurately color-match them. They are now more prominent in cosmetic dentistry because of their seamless look and feel.
What should I do if my dental crown falls out?
The first thing you should do is locate the tooth and store some place safe. Then call us as soon as possible to set up an appointment. Until your appointment, avoid chewing with that tooth and keep the area around the tooth clean. You can gently rinse with salt water. Most pharmacies and drug stores carry temporary dental cement that you can cover the tooth with to protect it. Prompt dental care is your best chance to replace the crown and save the tooth.
What should I expect after the crown is placed?
Experiencing some sensitivity after the procedure is typical and should subside fairly quickly. Sometimes, it may take a while for a crown to properly adjust, leading to minor discomfort for some patients. Should you feel pain while chewing, contact our dental office to schedule a follow-up appointment to check if the crown is too high on the tooth. If your crown becomes loose or falls off, please get in touch with us right away.
Can a dental crown last forever?
A dental crown does have the potential to last a lifetime. If you take good care of your oral hygiene and overall dental health including visiting the dentist on a regular basis, then your crown may last forever. Generally, a tooth crown has a lifespan ranging from ten to thirty years. If the crown is fitted correctly and you take good care of it and your health, it’s possible for it to last beyond 30 years.
Can I get a dental crown on my front tooth?
Yes, you can get a dental crown on your front tooth. Dental crowns are excellent dental restorations that can preserve, protect, and restore any teeth, including teeth you see when smiling. We take impressions of your teeth to ensure a precise fit. Once we place the tooth crown, it will go all the way to the gum line where it will blend in natural with the surrounding teeth.
Will my dental insurance cover my tooth crown?
Most dental insurance plans provide some coverage for dental crowns when deemed medically necessary. For example, if you suffer from significant tooth decay requiring a crown to safeguard the tooth, your insurance will likely pay a portion of the expense. However, the extent of coverage depends on the specifics of your policy. Generally, plans tend to cover between 50-80% of the cost. On the other hand, if the dental crown is desired solely for cosmetic reasons, it is doubtful that your insurance will cover it. For precise policy details, you should consult directly with your insurance provider.
We Offer Custom Dental Crowns in Rockville, MD
Contact our dentist in Rockville, MD, when you are ready for a dental crown at (301) 276-4694. You can also schedule an appointment online and we will get back to you shortly.