Choosing a dental crown will help restore the function of the tooth and ensure your smile looks natural. We offer dental crowns to patients from Forest Hill, MD.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a popular and versatile dental tool that can be used for restorative and cosmetic problems. Often referred to as a cap, a tooth crown is shaped like a real tooth and fits snuggly over a prepared tooth, completely encasing it. They can be fabricated with various materials however, porcelain is the most popular since it most resembles natural teeth.
Dental Crown Uses
A dental crown has many uses in dentistry. We may suggest a dental crown for any of the following reasons:
- Protect a tooth that is broken or worn down
- Use as a replacement tooth along with a dental implant
- To anchor a dental bridge
- Improve the appearance of a tooth by hiding cosmetic issues
- To strengthen a tooth after a root canal
How long does it take to fit a dental crown?
A tooth crown takes at least two offices visits to complete with a 2-3 week wait in between the two visits. During the first visit, you will be numbed and the decayed or broken portion of the tooth will be removed.
We will also clean the tooth and take impressions that will be used to fabricate the crown. It takes up to three weeks for the crown to be returned to our office where we will cement it to the tooth during the second dental appointment.
It is not abnormal for that tooth to experience some sensitivity for a few weeks. During this time, the tooth is simply settling into place. However, if you are having issues other than sensitivity, please do not hesitate to call us.
This especially includes if your bite hurts or does not feel normal. It could be an indication your dental crown is sitting too high and needs to be adjusted. Call us and we will get you in as soon as possible to correct the issues.
Who is a good candidate for porcelain crowns?
Virtually any patient in need of a dental crown can be a good candidate for porcelain crowns. Patients choose porcelain crowns because they are custom-matched to your natural teeth so no one has to know! They are highly stain-resistant as well.
Will my dental insurance cover dental crowns?
Most dental insurance plans will cover some portion of the cost for dental crowns. Major procedures, such as crowns and root canals, are usually reimbursed at the lowest percentage. Contact your dental insurance provider for specific details.
Schedule Your Appointment Now
Call our Forest Hill, MD, dental practice today to schedule a consultation. Using a dental crown, we can help you strengthen your tooth, improve its appearance, and protect it from further damage.
You can reach us by calling (410) 994-2627 or by requesting an appointment online. Harford County Dentistry is currently welcoming new patients from Forest Hill and many more surrounding areas.