Fix Your Smile With a Dental Crown

A dental crown, sometimes called a cap, is a covering that fits over a broken or chipped tooth. Whether you have damaged teeth from an accident or sports injury or you have a large cavity that cannot support a filling, a dental crown could be an option for you. Dr. James A. Vette, DDS, serving clients in the Germantown, Maryland area, will examine your teeth and gums to determine whether a dental crown is appropriate for your situation.

What to Expect

When you have a chipped, decayed, or broken tooth that needs a dental crown, Dr. Vette will thoroughly clean the tooth and ensure that it is free of infection. You may need several visits to prepare for the fitting and installation of the crown, depending on the level of damage and whether a root canal is required.

Once the tooth is clean and ready for a crown, we will make an impression of the tooth. This allows us to create a customized crown that fits directly over your existing tooth, matching the shape and color of your other teeth for a natural appearance. Because a crown takes a few weeks to make at a dental lab, you will receive a temporary crown in the meantime. Avoid crunchy, chewy, or extremely hot foods, which can damage the temporary crown. Try eating with the opposite side of your mouth and let foods cool down before taking a bite.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

If you have a broken or decayed tooth, the advantages of fixing it with a dental crown include:

• Preserving any natural tooth structure that remains
• Improving the look of your smile, whether you are bothered by discolored, crooked, or broken teeth
• Saving money compared to other tooth replacement options like dentures and implants
• Treating and preventing decay, which can lead to significant health issues over time

If you have a concern about a chipped or broken tooth or would like to talk more about dental crowns, call Dr. James A. Vette, DDS, today at (301) 540-4500 to schedule an appointment.