Dental Crowns in Laurel, MD
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, also called tooth-colored crowns, are a popular choice for restoring teeth because they blend naturally with your smile. These crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth, making them an excellent option for patients who want a more discreet solution for damaged or decayed teeth.
There are several reasons why a crown may be your best treatment plan option, and we will discuss all of these with you during your appointment. In the meantime, here is helpful information to answer common questions we receive about crowns.
White crowns are dental restorations that cover a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Unlike traditional metal crowns, white crowns are made from materials that mimic the natural color of teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result. They are commonly used for front teeth, where the appearance is most critical, but can also be used for back teeth if desired.

Materials Used for White Crowns
The Procedure for Getting Dental Crowns
Consultation
Your dentist will assess your teeth to determine if a dental crown is the right option for you. We will discuss your treatment goals and take impressions or digital scans of your teeth.
Tooth Preparation
We will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown. This may involve removing a small amount of your tooth enamel.
Impressions
An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a model for the crown. This can be done using traditional dental putty or digital scanning technology.
Temporary Crown
A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
Fabrication
The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where the dental crown is custom-made to fit your tooth. This process usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
Fitting
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to our office for a fitting. We will check the fit, color, and bite before cementing the crown in place.
Dental Crowns F.A.Q.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The primary benefit of dental crowns is their natural appearance. They blend in with the surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
- Conservative Preparation: Dental crowns often require less tooth preparation than metal crowns, meaning more of the natural tooth structure can be preserved.
- Durability: While not as strong as metal crowns, high-quality porcelain and ceramic crowns are still very durable and can last for many years with proper care.
- Biocompatibility: White crowns are generally well-tolerated by the body, with a low risk of allergic reactions or sensitivity.
To ensure the longevity of your dental crown, it is essential to follow proper care and maintenance practices:
- Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to keep your crown and surrounding teeth clean.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard foods, such as ice or hard candy, which can damage the crown.
- Regular Check-Ups: Keep your regularly scheduled check-ups and cleanings to monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues early on.
- Avoid Staining Substances: Limit consumption of foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, to maintain the appearance of your crown.