Dental crowns, also called dental caps or teeth caps, add strength to teeth and improve overall function and aesthetics. They fit securely over damaged teeth to create a more balanced and beautiful smile. Dr. Scott Finlay provides natural looking crowns and other dental services in Annapolis, Maryland.
Crowns are extremely durable and long lasting. This type of dental restoration is used to repair cracked or crooked teeth, as well as other flaws and a range of dental concerns. Dental crowns can be used as a stand alone cosmetic dental treatment or coupled with restorative dental procedures, such as root canals. They will support your long term oral health and blend in naturally.
Dental Crowns Before & After
“For along time, I was truly embarrassed and ashamed by my teeth. I rarely smile and when I did I always covered my mouth. Now I smile all the time and with confidence.”
 
Many patients attest to the comfort and natural beauty of dental crowns. We have a multitude of success stories from Annapolis and the Baltimore, Maryland area. See more dental crown before and after photos and read more patient testimonials in our smile gallery.
Porcelain Dental Crowns
There are many options for materials that dentists can use in dental crowns. However, Dr. Finlay chooses porcelain dental crowns because of their superior esthetics and long term durability. They are also color matched to the exact shade of your natural teeth to blend in naturally with the rest of your smile. Once thought to be less durable than metal crowns on teeth, the porcelain material has excellent long term results with proper treatment planning.
Metal free dental crowns do not discolor the gum area like metal dental caps. Especially in the smile zone, metal free dental crowns are the gold standard for creating a beautiful, natural looking appearance. They are long lasting and also stain-resistant.
What To Expect During Treatment
Whether it is just one tooth or several teeth, tooth crowns can provide a dramatic improvement in the overall appearance of your smile. Caring for dental crowns is just like caring for your natural teeth. It is always important to maintain a routine schedule of dental cleanings and evaluations to ensure the best long-term results. We recommend visiting our office every six months for a routine cleaning and examination.
Many patients avoid the dentist because they fear dental treatment will be painful and complicated. The process for placing crowns on teeth is actually quite simple and pain free.
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
The first step in the process of creating crowns for teeth is a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Finlay will perform a physical evaluation to inspect the teeth, gums, jaw joints, and other support structures of the mouth, carefully looking for signs of stress, decay, or instability. Diagnostic x-rays, molds, and impressions, will paint a clear picture of the condition of your mouth so that Dr. Finlay can address any health or functional concerns during treatment.
Step 2 – Treatment Planning
Consider treatment planning like a set of blueprints for an architect. Dr. Finlay uses 2-D and 3-D models to demonstrate and test the proposed treatment using dental crowns. Using digital scans and imaging he is able to create mock ups of the way the that crown will look in your mouth. This is a great way to get an idea of what your final restoration will look like.
Step 3 – Tooth Preparation
To prepare the tooth for a dental crown, Dr. Finlay will remove a small amount of the natural tooth structure. This gives a rougher structure for your crown to adhere to. Oftentimes, he will place a provisional or temporary crown on the tooth until your final restoration is ready. In most cases it takes about two to three weeks for your permanent restoration to be created.
Step 4 – Final Restoration
Because so much planning goes into the treatment process, the final step is quite simple and predictable. Your dentist will place the porcelain dental crown on the tooth and permanently bond it in place. The crown will be polished and you will leave our office with a aesthetically pleasing and restored smile.
Dental Crown FAQs
Do you have further questions about the dental crown process and how they can restore you smile? Continue reading to find answers to frequently asked questions in our office.
Are dental crowns painful?
No, the dental crown procedure is not painful. It’s similar to getting a tooth filling. When your dentist places dental crowns, they will use an anesthetic to numb the area. Yo may feel slight pressure, however you should not feel any excessive pain during this procedure. Some patients report sensitivity in the area after their crown has been placed. This is completely normal and will go away after a few days.
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last about 15 years. However, if maintained properly, dental crowns can last up to 30 years. Diligent brushing and flossing, as well as using mouthwash will greatly increase the lifespan of your dental crown. Additionally, dental crowns that are secured with implants tend to last longer that ones that are secured using resin.
Am I a candidate for dental crowns?
Most patients are viable candidates for dental crowns. If you suffer from bruxism, or teeth clenching and grinding, you should get treatment before getting dental crowns. Constant pressure on dental crowns can cause damage to them, which may make their lifespan significantly shorter. Dr. Finlay is a dentist in Annapolis, MD that will do a complete oral health exam to determine if you qualify for dental crowns.
Request a Dental Exam Today
Whether you have a damaged tooth or several blemished teeth, dental crowns help you achieve the smile of your dreams. They are the most practical treatment option to repair these issues. We can custom design a dental crown out of high quality porcelain for a beautiful and natural look. Contact our restorative and cosmetic dental office to learn more about dental crowns. We offer financing options for your convenience. Our state of the art dentist office is located in the Greater Annapolis and the Baltimore, Maryland area. Call us today at 410.989.7132 or request an appointment online.