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Porcelain Crowns in Washington, DC

At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Maurice Haynes offers porcelain crowns as part of his top-notch general dental services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.

Teeth that are misshapen or have suffered in strength, size, or appearance often can be restored to their original appearance with the use of a porcelain crown applied at University Centre Dental Associates by Dr. Maurice Haynes.

What Is a Porcelain Crown?

A porcelain dental crown is a “cap” designed to be placed over the tooth. It covers the tooth to restore its size and shape or improve its appearance. Crowns, when fixed into place, fully sheathe the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.

When Is a Porcelain Crown Necessary?

Porcelain crowns have many benefits in various dental situations. These may include the following:

  • To protect a weak tooth from breaking or to hold together several parts of a cracked tooth
  • To restore a tooth that has already been broken or severely worn down
  • To cover and support a tooth that contains a large filling when there is not much tooth left
  • To cover misshapen or discolored teeth
  • To cover a dental implant
  • To restore teeth that have had root canal treatment

How Is a Porcelain Crown Different from Other Types of Crowns?

All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns offer a better natural color match than any other type of crown and may be a more appealing choice for people with metal allergies. Though they are not as strong as porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns and they wear down opposing teeth more than metal or resin crowns, they are a good choice for front teeth.

How Are Porcelain Crowns Applied?

Two visits are typically required when preparing a tooth for a porcelain crown.

At the first visit, Dr. Haynes may opt to take an X-ray to check the roots of the tooth receiving the crown. If the tooth has excess decay or if there is risk of infection or injury to the pulp, a root canal may be required.

Dr. Haynes will then numb the tooth and the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. The tooth will then be prepared along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown. After reshaping the tooth, Dr. Haynes will apply a paste or putty to make an impression of the tooth. Dr. Haynes will also make a temporary crown to cover and protect the tooth while the crown is being made at a dental lab. Dr. Haynes will select the shade that most closely matches the color of the surrounding teeth.

During the second visit, Dr. Haynes will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and color of the permanent one. Upon approval, Dr. Haynes will apply a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and cement the crown in place.

How Do I Care for a Porcelain Crown?

To provide care for the new crown, it is best to avoid sticky, chewy foods that can grab and pull the crown off. Minimize chewing on the side of the mouth with the crown. Avoid hard foods that could break the crown, and slide floss out rather than lifting it up when cleaning the teeth.

Why Choose Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?

Dr. Maurice Haynes stays up-to-date on the newest advances and technologies in the field of dentistry in order to provide his patients with the best care possible. He combines excellent dental services with compassion and is an active member of the American Dental Association.

How Much Do Porcelain Crowns Cost in Greenbelt, MD?

The cost for porcelain crowns varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.

Your dental insurance may cover the cost of porcelain crowns. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your porcelain crowns coverage.

We provide financing through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket porcelain crown costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our porcelain crown patients.

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How Do I Schedule a Consultation?

Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!The general dental and orthodontic services we offer at University Centre Dental Associates have improved the lives of people from in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Whether you are an adult, a child, or a teenager, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve.