Dental Crowns – Millersville, MD
Protect Your Damaged Teeth
Tooth enamel is the strongest substance in the entire body, but unfortunately, it isn’t completely indestructible. Teeth can become damaged by decay, injuries, accidents, and more. Fortunately, we offer customized dental crowns in Millersville to protect your damaged teeth going forward. With our durable, natural-looking materials, your customized crown will be comfortable and fully functional! To find out if this is the best option for you, give us a call to schedule your next visit.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is simply a tooth-shaped cap that your dentist fits over one of your natural teeth (or a dental implant). Since we use beautiful, custom-crafted porcelain crowns, you can expect that your restoration will seamlessly blend in with the rest of your smile. Here are some reasons why you may be able to benefit from a dental crown:
- You’ve recently had a root canal, and you need a crown to protect the treated tooth.
- A tooth is broken or has suffered from extensive decay and therefore needs a crown to fortify it against further damage, saving it from extraction.
- You have a cracked tooth. A crown can protect your tooth and spare you from pain.
- A tooth is misshapen or discolored, and you would like a crown to improve its appearance.
- You need a crown to go on top of a dental implant.
The Process of Getting a Dental Crown
Having a dental crown placed typically only takes two visits to the dental office. The first step involves examining your smile to ensure that a crown is the best solution for you. Once this is confirmed by your dentist, a thin layer of the enamel needs to be removed. This creates room for the crown to fit comfortably in the mouth and appear natural. An impression is then taken and sent to the dental lab where your crown will be crafted.
In the meantime, we will provide you with a temporary crown. This will protect your tooth and help you become accustomed to how your new dental crown will feel. As soon as your final restoration is complete, you will come back to the practice where it will be adhered using a special dental cement.
The Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown
Dental crowns provide all sorts of benefits. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
- Feels comfortable
- Appears natural
- Customized for you
- Prevents further damage
- Lasts 15+ years with proper care
- Improved ability to chew
- Increases confidence
Dental Crown FAQs
Dental crowns in Millersville have been trusted for decades to repair damaged teeth. Although they have a long record of success, they are a long-term commitment. If you need a crown, don’t worry. Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions to resolve any concerns.
What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
Crowns can be made of a variety of materials, including metals and ceramic. Our office uses all-ceramic restorations because of their endless benefits. Porcelain allows the crown to be customized to match the appearance of your teeth. It will blend in seamlessly, making it the ideal option for the front teeth. Not to mention, they are completely metal-free, perfect for people with metal sensitivities. Although the crown will be porcelain, it will be durable to last for 15 years or longer with the right care, like brushing and flossing. While your permanent restoration is made of ceramic, your temporary crown will be made of stainless steel, and they aren’t customized. You’ll only require it for a couple of weeks until your final crown is ready.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
No, dental crowns aren’t permanent because they need to be replaced, eventually. However, a crown isn’t reversible, either. Your dentist in Millersville must reshape your tooth to allow the crown to fit over it. Unfortunately, your tooth can’t grow back if the crown is removed. As a result, it will always have to be covered by a restoration to protect it from damage. While it may not last forever, it is designed to provide a long-term solution. The average crown has a lifespan of about 5 to 15 years, but it’s not unusual for one to last much longer. You can ensure your restoration serves you for years by committing to your oral hygiene at home and visiting your dentist regularly.
Can Dental Crowns Get Cavities?
The crown can’t get cavities, but your underlying tooth is still vulnerable to decay. Despite the crown covering it, the tooth doesn’t have any less risk of cavities than any other. Bacteria can enter under the crown, leading to decay. It can be avoided by brushing, flossing, and using a daily mouth rinse. Pay attention when cleaning where the crown meets the gumline to remove any food particles or plaque. Besides caring for your smile at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll keep your smile cavity-free to ensure your investment thrives for years.
Are Dental Crowns Covered by Insurance?
A dental crown is considered a major procedure. Therefore, your insurance may pay a portion of the cost after meeting your annual deductible. If the restoration is medically necessary, your dental benefits can pay about 50% of the cost. A member of our team will help you maximize your coverage to lower your out-of-pocket expense. We offer several payment methods for any remaining balance, like third-party financing. We will review all your options during your consultation to keep your restoration within your budget.