When your tooth needs more support than a filling can provide, a dental crown offers a reliable solution that restores function and appearance. If you’re dealing with a weakened, damaged, or severely decayed tooth, understanding your options for dental crowns can help you make the best decision for your oral health.
At David Eskow, DDS Family Dentistry, we’ve helped countless patients in Olney restore their smiles with custom dental crowns. Our restorative dental team combines advanced technology with personalized care to ensure your crown looks natural and lasts for years to come.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that entirely protects a damaged or weakened tooth, correcting its size, shape, strength, and appearance. Think of it as a protective helmet for your tooth. It shields the underlying structure while allowing you to bite and chew normally.
Crowns serve multiple purposes beyond just protection. They can strengthen teeth with large cavities when there isn’t enough healthy tooth to hold the filling. They help maintain proper spacing between teeth and preserve your natural bite alignment.
Common Materials Used
Modern dental crowns come in several material options, each with distinct advantages:
- Porcelain or ceramic crowns: These provide the most realistic appearance and are perfect for front teeth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: Offering both strength and aesthetics, these work well for any tooth
- Gold or metal alloy crowns: The strongest option, perfect for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces
- Zirconia crowns: A newer option that combines durability with excellent aesthetics
When considering a dental crown, it is best to partner with a practice that prioritizes your comfort and delivers exceptional results. At David Eskow, DDS Family Dentistry, we are committed to achieving a healthy, radiant smile that lasts.
When You Might Need a Crown
Several dental situations may require a crown to restore your tooth’s health and function. Understanding these scenarios helps you recognize when to seek treatment.
Protecting Weak Teeth
Teeth weakened by decay, large fillings, or cracks benefit significantly from crown protection. When decay compromises a substantial portion of your tooth structure, a filling alone may not provide adequate support. Crowns prevent these vulnerable teeth from breaking during normal use.
Restoring Broken Teeth
Accidents, injuries, or simple wear can cause teeth to chip or break. When damage extends beyond what bonding or veneers can repair, crowns offer a comprehensive solution that rebuilds the entire visible portion of your tooth.
After Root Canal Treatment
Following root canal therapy, teeth often become brittle and more prone to fracture. A crown provides essential protection, helping preserve the tooth for many more years of service.
The Crown Procedure Process
Getting a dental crown typically involves a straightforward process completed over two appointments. Understanding each step helps you feel more comfortable and prepared.
First Appointment: Preparation
During your initial visit, we carefully prepare your tooth by extracting any decay and shaping it to accommodate the crown. We then take precise impressions or digital scans to ensure your crown fits perfectly. A temporary crown protects your tooth while the permanent one is crafted.
Second Appointment: Placement
When your custom crown arrives from the dental laboratory, we remove the temporary crown and check the fit, color, and bite of your new restoration. After making any necessary adjustments, we permanently cement the crown in place, completing your smile transformation.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Investing in a dental crown provides numerous advantages for your oral health and quality of life.
- Protection and Durability: Crowns shield damaged teeth from further harm while withstanding normal biting forces. With care, they typically last 10-15 years or longer.
- Improved Appearance: Modern crowns closely match your teeth, making it impossible for others to notice the difference. They restore your tooth’s original shape and alignment for a seamless smile.
- Restored Function: With your new crown securely in place, you can once again eat, speak, and smile with confidence. The restoration allows normal tooth function without pain or sensitivity.
Regular professional cleanings and examinations at David Eskow, DDS Family Dentistry will also ensure your crown remains in optimal condition, protecting your investment in a healthy, beautiful smile.
Caring for Your Crown
Maintaining your dental crown requires the same care you give your natural teeth, with a few additional considerations.
Daily Maintenance:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss carefully around the crown margins
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria
Long-term Care:
- Schedule regular dental checkups every six months
- Avoid chewing ice or hard candies
- If you are a teeth grinder, consider a nightguard
- Address any concerns promptly to prevent complications
By adhering to these simple yet effective practices, you can extend the lifespan of your crown and maintain excellent oral health for years to come.
Choose David Eskow, DDS, Family Dentistry for Your Dental Crown
When you need a dental crown in Olney, our practice offers the expertise and personalized care you deserve. As a Top Dentist recipient in 2023 and 2025, Dr. Eskow combines years of experience with the latest dental technology to create crowns that not only look beautiful but also function perfectly.Our team takes time to understand your unique needs and concerns, ensuring your crown procedure is as comfortable as possible. We offer flexible payment plans to make your treatment affordable, and our convenient Olney location serves patients from Rockville, Gaithersburg, Brookville, Ashton, and Sandy Spring.
Contact us today to learn how a dental crown can restore your smile:
Visit Us: 18119 Cashell Road, Olney, MD 20832
Call: (301) 774-2000
Schedule your consultation online
Same-day appointments may be available for dental emergencies. Contact our office to learn more about our dental crown services and how we can help restore your smile and confidence.
