Dental Crowns in Bethesda & Chevy Chase, MD

If a single tooth is damaged or worn down, it can be protected with a dental crown. Also known as a "tooth cap," crowns are custom made to fit over your natural tooth and colored to match your surrounding teeth for a seamless appearance. At Smiles of Chevy Chase, a dental crown may be used to treat a large cavity, protect a weak tooth, restore a cracked tooth, or cover a discolored tooth. Experienced dentist Dr. Despina Markogiannakis offers crowns crafted with e.max pressed ceramic for a durable finish. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Markogiannakis at her Chevy Chase, MD dental practice to find out how a dental crown can strengthen or repair a tooth while also improving the overall health and appearance of your smile.

Dental crowns may be needed or wanted in a variety of situations. They can be used to protect a tooth weakened by decay to keep it from being further damaged, or they can hold parts of a tooth together that have already cracked. Crowns can also be used to fix a tooth that is loose or extremely worn down. 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 cover misshapen or discolored teeth. Crowns can be cemented to the tooth or attached to a dental implant. The materials used can be selected based on the location of the tooth. During your consultation, Dr. Marko will go over your options and help you select the best crown for your needs and budget.

During your consultation, Dr. Marko or a member of her team will take impressions of your teeth so that the crown can be custom made. If needed, a temporary crown can be placed over your tooth while your custom crown is being crafted. Once your crown is ready, the area to be treated will be numbed with a local anesthetic. Other sedation options may be available to help you feel more comfortable during the procedure if you have any fears or anxieties. Once you are ready, Dr. Marko will prepare the tooth by removing any areas of decay, then file down the tooth to make room for the crown. The crown will be cemented onto the tooth or attached to the dental implant. Once set, Dr. Marko will adjust the fit so that your bite is comfortable.

If only local anesthesia is used, you should be able to leave once your crown is placed to continue your daily activities. Dr. Marko or a member of her team will go over the best way to care for your new crown, including any foods to avoid and the best way to keep your new restoration clean. During your exams at Smiles of Chevy Chase, Dr. Markogiannakis will assess your crown and adjust the fit for comfort. She will let you know when the crown needs to be replaced over time, but with proper care, it should last for many years. If you experience any problems with your crown (like if it becomes loose or falls out), contact our dental office for help. Do not try to fix it or put it back in yourself because this can lead to a bad fit or cause an infection.

Depending on your dental insurance coverage, some of the cost of your crown may be covered. After talking to your insurance company, our office can better estimate your out-of-pocket expenses. During your consultation, Dr. Marko can help you determine the best material for your crown that fits your budget. She will also go over payment options, including medical financing, to make your treatment more affordable.

A single missing or damaged tooth can be easily treated with a custom dental crown created for you at Smiles of Chevy Chase. Talk to Dr. Markogiannakis about how a crown can protect your tooth from further damage and keep your whole mouth healthy. With a wide variety of materials available, a custom-made crown can match your natural teeth so your smile remains beautiful and appears seamless. Contact our dental office in Chevy Chase, MD to schedule a consultation with experienced dentist Dr. Markogiannakis.