Repair and Restore Damaged Teeth with Functional and Life-looking Dental Crowns
Some tooth damage or decay is relatively small and easy to hide with a tooth filling. However, if your tooth is extensively damaged or decayed, you’ll need extensive repair before you can use it to chew or bite again. Dental crowns in Arlington, Virginia, repair significant tooth damage by enveloping the entire tooth visible above the gum line. When expertly placed, dental crowns restore your tooth’s functionality and appearance to its pre-damage self.
Ballston Dental Care has been restoring smiles with dental crowns for years. Dr. David Matney combines modern technology with an eye for artistry to create superior restorations. Our dental crowns look great, fit comfortably, and function like natural teeth.
Why do I need a dental crown?
You’ve probably heard of dental crowns before. They are tooth-shaped appliances worn over an afflicted tooth to prevent further damage and enhance its structural integrity. While they can be created from several materials, including metal, dentists prefer ceramic materials because of their aesthetics, biocompatibility, and durability.
Here are the reasons your dentist may recommend a dental crown.
- To repair an extensively damaged or decayed tooth
- To aesthetically improve a damaged, mishappen, or discolored tooth
- To reinforce a traditional bridge
- To cover a dental implant
- To strengthen a tooth after an endodontic treatment
What should I expect from the dental crown process?
Your dental crown treatment requires at least 2-3 dental appointments. During your initial consultation, we’ll examine your tooth with digital X-rays to determine the extent of damage. Sometimes, you may need a root canal to resolve an infection before placing a dental crown.
To place a crown, the dentist gently removes the decayed/damaged portions and reshapes your enamel to make room for the crown. Then, we digitally scan your tooth and send the digital records to our dental lab to handcraft your restoration. Since the fabrication takes a few days, we’ll temporarily restore your tooth to protect it from injuries and infections.
When we receive your permanent crown, you’ll visit our office for placement. The dentist will “try in” your restoration to establish its fit and appearance. After minor reshaping and polishing, we’ll use strong adhesives to bond your crown permanently to your tooth. Now, you can smile and eat confidently with a complete, functional smile.
How do I maintain a dental crown?
Porcelain crowns are incredibly durable and last many years. However, like any dental restoration, proper maintenance is essential. Luckily, caring for your crown isn’t cumbersome and doesn’t require special skills or tools.
To keep your crown looking its best, it’s essential to:
- Brush and floss your teeth diligently
- Schedule routine check-ups and cleanings with your dentist twice a year
- Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite your fingernails
- Protect your smile with a personalized mouthguard if you brux your teeth
- Avoid smoking
- Wear a sports mouthguard if you lead an active lifestyle
Are you interested in dental crown treatment?
A damaged or decayed tooth can cause simple activities like eating to become a source of pain. It doesn’t have to be this way—call (703) 229-8565 to schedule an appointment with Ballston Dental Care for high-quality crowns.
