Dental Crowns in Washington, D.C.

If one tooth is damaged or worn down, it can be protected with a dental crown. Also known as a cap, crowns are custom made to fit over your tooth and colored to match your surrounding teeth for a seamless appearance. At Ingber Dental in Washington, D.C., a dental crown may be used to treat a large area of decay, protect a weak tooth, restore a cracked tooth, or cover a discolored tooth. Dr. Kenneth Ingber and his team offer dental crowns with different materials to match your specific needs, including porcelain, metal, and porcelain over metal. Schedule a consultation to learn about how a crown can strengthen or repair a tooth while also boosting the overall health of your smile.

Crowns may be needed or wanted in a variety of situations. They can be used to protect a weak, decaying tooth to keep it from breaking or they can hold together a cracked tooth. Crowns can also fix a loose or worn-down tooth, and they can be utilized to support a tooth with a large cavity that cannot hold a normal filling, hold a dental bridge in place, or mask misshapen or discolored teeth. Additionally, they can be cemented to the tooth or attached to a dental implant. The material of the crown is selected based on the location of the tooth. Metal or porcelain fused to metal (PFM) are typically stronger so they are better for the less visible teeth in the back. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are better for the front teeth and customized to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. At your consultation, we will discuss your options and help you select the best crown for your needs.

In your consultation, impressions of your teeth will be taken so your crown can be custom made. If needed, a temporary crown can be placed over your tooth while your custom crown is being made. Once your dental crown is ready, the area to be treated will be numbed with a local anesthetic. More sedation options may be available if you have dental anxieties or fears. Once you are ready, the tooth will be prepared by removing debris and decay, then the tooth will be filed down to make room for the crown. The crown will be cemented onto the tooth or attached to the dental implant. Once set, the fit will be adjusted so your bite is correct.

If only local anesthesia is used, you should be able to leave once your crown is placed and get back to your day. A member of our team will discuss the best way to care for your crown, including foods to avoid and the best way to keep it clean. During your annual exams at Ingber Dental, we will assess your crown and adjust the fit for comfort. We will determine when the crown needs to be replaced, but with proper care, it should last for many years. If you have any issues with your crown (it becomes loose or falls out), contact our office right away. Do not try to fix it or put it back in yourself since this can lead to a bad fit or infection.

Depending on your dental insurance, part of the cost of your crown may be covered. Once we talk to your insurance, our office will be able to better estimate your personal expenses. During your consultation, we can help you choose the best material for your crown that fits your budget. A member of our financial team will also discuss payment options, including medical financing, to make your treatment more affordable.

A single missing or damaged tooth can be treated with a dental crown at Ingber Dental. Talk to our team about how a crown can protect your tooth from further damage and keep your mouth healthy. With a wide variety of materials available, a custom crown can be matched with your natural teeth to keep your smile beautiful. Contact our office in Washington, D.C. to schedule a consultation.