Porcelain Dental Crowns- Restore Your Teeth. Natural Results available in Potomac

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Dental Crowns

Dental caries or cavities that are the result of tooth decay need to be removed to decrease further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues. Untreated tooth decay can lead to problems with the gums and supporting bone and ultimately may result in tooth loss. The cavity is removed using a small drill and the hole that is created is filled with either an amalgam or composite white filling. When tooth decay is extensive, a very large part of the tooth may need to be removed and the remaining natural tooth structure may not provide the strength needed for normal function. One way to strengthen the tooth is with the placement of a dental crown. A dental crown is sometimes referred to as a “cap” because it covers the natural tooth. The crown is often made of a porcelain material that is similar in color to the natural tooth. Cosmetically it may be difficult to tell if someone has a dental crown. Dentists in our Potomac office are skilled in assessing the need for and in placing dental crowns.

Dental crowns may be a recommended form of treatment when:

-The amount of tooth decay is extensive and a large portion of the natural tooth must be removed

-A filling that was previously placed is quite old and causing breakage to the remaining tooth structure

-A tooth has been broken and cannot be repaired with a filling alone

-A tooth is a different color from other teeth

-The teeth are very sensitive to change in temperatures

-A root canal procedure has been performed

-A dental bridge is needed

Dental crowns may be made from porcelain, gold, resin or another composite. The type of material used for the crown may be chosen for aesthetic reasons. Porcelain tends to be the most popular material used to create a dental crown as it is very similar in color to the natural tooth.

Two appointments are typically needed to create and place a dental crown at our Potomac dental office. At the initial visit, the dentist examines the affected tooth and decides if a dental crown is the best type of treatment. If a dental crown is the preferred form of treatment, the dentist with then prep the tooth by filing and shaping it. This is necessary so that the crown will have a tight fit to the tooth. The dentist will also make a mold of the tooth. The mold will be given to an external lab where a custom shaped crown will be created. In the meantime, the dentist may put a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is put in place. At the next visit, the dentist will replace the temporary crown with the permanent crown. The permanent dental crown is finally cemented into place. The permanent crown gives the tooth strength so that normal functioning is maintained.

Although a dental crown is made of synthetic material, it must be cleaned like a natural tooth. Maintaining proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing along with professional examination and teeth cleaning will help ensure the crown stays in place for years to come.

If you have further questions on Crowns, please contact our office for an appointment to discuss if Crowns are right for you call 301-760-4550.

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Your Dentist 7508 Wisconsin ave. Bethesda MD 20814 tel: 301-760-4550