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Crowns
A dental crown is a durable, tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore strength, function, and appearance. At SKS Dental in Arlington, VA, Dr. Smita Sabharwal provides high-quality dental crowns to protect teeth from further damage while ensuring a natural and comfortable fit. Whether your tooth is cracked, severely decayed, or has undergone a root canal, a dental crown procedure can provide a lasting solution for your dental health.
Contact us today to learn more!
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fits over a tooth like a snug cap. It restores the tooth’s natural shape, size, and function while protecting it from further damage. Crowns are made from various materials, each offering unique benefits:
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are highly aesthetic and blend seamlessly with natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for front teeth. While they are durable, they may not be as strong as metal-based options.
Ceramic Crowns
Crafted from advanced dental ceramics, these crowns balance strength and appearance. They are often used for patients with metal allergies and provide a natural look with good longevity.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns, made from gold, platinum, or base-metal alloys, are incredibly strong and resistant to wear. They are best suited for molars with the strongest chewing forces but are less popular due to their metallic color.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
These combine the aesthetics of porcelain with the strength of metal. While they are durable and natural-looking, the underlying metal may become visible over time.
Resin Crowns
These are typically used as temporary crowns because they are more affordable but less durable than other materials. They provide a short-term solution while waiting for a permanent restoration.
Dr. Sabharwal will help determine the best crown material based on your needs, preferences, and oral health requirements.
Before & After Photo
Who Needs a Dental Crown?
Not every damaged tooth requires a dental crown procedure, but it is the best solution for many patients. You may need a dental crown if:
- A tooth has a large cavity that can’t be repaired with composite filling.
- You have a cracked or fractured tooth that requires reinforcement.
- A tooth has been weakened after a root canal treatment.
- A dental implant or bridge needs a secure covering for support.
- You want to improve a tooth’s shape, size, or color.
Dr. Sabharwal will assess your dental health and determine if a crown is right for you.
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure
A dental crown procedure is typically completed over two visits.
First Visit
During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the tooth by reshaping it to create enough space for the crown. Any decay or structural damage will be removed to ensure a strong foundation.
Next, impressions of your tooth will be taken, allowing the dental lab to craft a custom-fit crown that matches the size and shape of your natural tooth. A temporary crown will protect the treated tooth until the permanent one is ready.
Second Visit
At the second appointment, the temporary crown will be carefully removed, and your tooth will be cleaned and prepped for the final restoration. Your new crown will be checked for fit, color, and overall comfort.
If everything looks good, your dentist will securely bond it using a strong dental adhesive. Finally, your bite will be adjusted to ensure your teeth align correctly, allowing for normal chewing and speaking functions without discomfort.
Dr. Sabharwal is a wonderful dentist! I would highly recommend her and have done so to all my friends. Her new office is bright and welcoming. Her staff are friendly and helpful. She is very patient with me – I’m nervous about going to the dentist- and I appreciate how she explains the procedures when I ask for more information. She also sees my kids- ages 4,9 and 77- and they enjoy going to visit her. She has a great manner with children and adults. We are so happy to have found such a great dentist!
Recovering After a Dental Crown Procedure
After the procedure, you may experience mild sensitivity or soreness, which should subside within a few days. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods for at least 24 hours to allow the cement to set fully. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups will help ensure the longevity of your dental crown.
Benefits of a Dental Crown
A dental crown provides essential protection, helping to reinforce a weakened tooth and prevent further structural damage. It also improves comfort by covering exposed or sensitive areas, reducing discomfort while eating or drinking.
Crowns offer a more uniform and symmetrical smile for patients with misshapen or uneven teeth. Additionally, crowns can support adjacent teeth in cases where shifting may occur due to tooth loss or significant wear.
With proper care, a well-placed crown not only restores function but also helps maintain oral health for years to come.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of a dental crown varies based on the material used and the complexity of the procedure. At SKS Dental, we offer flexible financing options to help make treatment affordable. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed estimate and discuss payment options that fit your budget.
Why Choose SKS Dental?
At SKS Dental, we are committed to providing exceptional care in a welcoming and professional environment. Led by Dr. Smita Sabharwal, our team blends advanced dental techniques with a patient-centered approach to ensure the best possible outcomes.
We focus on education, prevention, and personalized treatment plans, helping patients make informed decisions about their dental health. With state-of-the-art technology, high safety standards, and a dedication to ongoing learning, we strive to deliver top-quality dental services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule Your Dental Crown Consultation in Arlington, VA
If you need a dental crown in Arlington, VA, SKS Dental is here to help. Dr. Smita Sabharwal and her team are committed to restoring your smile with high-quality dental care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and achieve a healthier, more confident smile.