Annapolis Dental Crowns | What is a Dental Crown

Dental CrownsAn Overview

Dental crowns, also called dental caps or teeth caps, add strength to teeth and improve overall function and aesthetics. This type of restoration is used to repair cracked or crooked teeth, as well as other flaws.

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 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

While there are many options for materials used in dental crowns, Dr. Finlay chooses porcelain dental crowns because of their superior esthetics and long term durability. Once thought to be less durable than metal crowns on teeth, porcelain crowns have shown excellent long term results with proper treatment planning.

Metal free dental crowns do not discolor the gum area like conventional metal dental caps. Especially in the smile zone, metal free dental crowns are the gold standard for creating a beautiful, natural looking appearance.

Your New Smile

Whether it is just one tooth or several teeth, dental 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.

Contact our cosmetic dentistry practice to learn more about dental crowns and the financing options offered by our office; conveniently located in Greater Annapolis and the Baltimore, Maryland area by calling 410.989.7132 or request an appointment online.

Dental Crowns What to Expect

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.

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 blue prints for an architect. Dr. Finlay uses 2-D and 3-D models to demonstrate and test the proposed treatment using dental crowns.

Step 3 – Tooth Preparation

To prepare the tooth for a dental crown, Dr. Finlay will remove a small amount of the natural tooth structure. Often times, a provisional or temporary cap is placed on the tooth while the final restoration is made.

Step 4 – Final Restoration

Because so much planning goes into the treatment process, the final step is quite simple and predictable. The porcelain dental crown is placed on the tooth and permanently bonded.

Dental Crowns FAQs

Are dental crowns painful?: No, the dental crown procedure is not painful. It’s similar to getting a tooth filling. When dental crowns are placed, anesthetic is used to numb the area. You should not feel any excessive pain during this procedure or after the procedure.
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.
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 having dental crowns inserted. Constant pressure on dental crowns can cause damage.

Dental Crowns Annapolis, MD