E-Max Dental Crowns in Chevy Chase, MD
We proudly offer IPS e. max® crowns, a breakthrough solution for achieving natural, durable, and aesthetically pleasing dental restorations.
Restore Your Tooth. Protect Your Smile. Look Completely Natural.
If you’re looking for a dental crown near you in Chevy Chase, MD, whether you have a cracked tooth, a tooth that survived a root canal, or a damaged molar that needs protection, Smiles of Chevy Chase is your local specialist. Under the care of Dr. Despina Markogiannakis, our practice offers IPS e.max® ceramic dental crowns, the gold standard for patients who want a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like a real tooth.
We proudly serve patients in Chevy Chase and surrounding communities, including Bethesda, Somerset, Forest Hills, and the greater Washington, DC area. If you’ve been told you need a crown or you’re wondering whether a crown is right for you, this page will walk you through everything you need to know.
Award-winning dental care ranked #1 by Washingtonian, Bethesda, and Potomac Magazine. Call (301) 652-0656 or book online to schedule your consultation with our Chevy Chase dentist.
What Is a Dental Crown and When Do You Actually Need One?
A dental crown is a custom-made ceramic cap that fits snugly over a damaged, weakened, or cosmetically compromised tooth. Think of it as a protective shell that restores the tooth’s original shape, strength, and appearance while blending seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
Patients who come to our Chevy Chase office for dental crowns typically have one of these situations:
- A tooth that cracked, fractured, or broke, especially from an accident, grinding, or biting something hard
- A large cavity too big for a tooth-colored filling to reliably fix
- A tooth that has just had a root canal, which removes the inner pulp and leaves the tooth structurally vulnerable
- A worn-down tooth from years of grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion
- An existing old crown that’s failing, discolored, or no longer fitting correctly
- A dental implant that needs a crown placed on top to complete the restoration
- A discolored or misshapen tooth that isn’t responding to teeth whitening or dental bonding
- A tooth anchoring a dental bridge
You don’t have to wait until a tooth is in pain or visibly broken to consider a crown. In fact, early crowning of a compromised tooth can prevent fracture, infection, and the need for extraction down the road. If you’ve been putting it off, a consultation with our team can tell you exactly where your tooth stands.
Why We Use E-Max Crowns: The Superior Ceramic Crown Option
Not all dental crowns are created equal. At Smiles of Chevy Chase, we’ve chosen IPS e.max® lithium disilicate glass-ceramic as our primary crown material—and it’s not just because it looks beautiful. Supported by extensive clinical evidence, this material remains the top choice for patients because it reliably provides superior results in the aesthetic zone.
Here’s what makes E-Max the right choice for most patients:
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Unmatched Natural Aesthetics
E-Max crowns are made from lithium disilicate glass-ceramic, a material that creates the same level of translucency and light reflection as natural tooth enamel. Under office lighting, sunlight, or camera flash, your E-Max crown won't give itself away. It catches light the way a real tooth does—something that solid zirconia and older porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns simply can't replicate for front teeth.
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Impressive Strength for an All-Ceramic Material
At 360–400 MPa of flexural strength, E-Max crowns are strong enough for most posterior (back) teeth and are the clear leader for anterior (front) teeth. They withstand the normal forces of biting and chewing without chipping—and because they're metal-free, there's no dark gray margin at the gumline over time.
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Minimal Tooth Removal — A More Conservative Approach
E-Max crowns require less tooth reduction than traditional PFM or metal crowns. That means we preserve more of your healthy, natural tooth structure. Less drilling. Less tissue removed. Better long-term outcomes.
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Biocompatible: Safe for All Patients
The lithium disilicate material used in E-Max crowns is completely biocompatible—no metals, no allergens. For patients with metal sensitivities or who prefer entirely metal-free dentistry, E-Max is the gold standard choice. The material is also well-tolerated by gum tissue, reducing the risk of inflammation at the crown margin.
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Precision Fit and Longevity
E-Max crowns are designed and fabricated using digital impressions and CAD/CAM technology, resulting in a precise fit that minimizes micro-gaps where bacteria could sneak in. With proper care—routine brushing, flossing, and dental checkups—E-Max ceramic crowns can last 10 to 15 years or more. Many patients find them to be a lasting investment.
E-Max vs. Zirconia vs. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal: Which Crown is Right for You?
One of the most common questions we hear from patients searching for “dental crowns near me” is, “What’s the difference between all these crown types?” Here’s an honest, straight-to-the-point comparison:
Feature | E-Max (Lithium Disilicate) | Zirconia | Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal |
Aesthetics | ★★★★★ Best translucency | ★★★★☆ Good, less natural | ★★★☆☆ Grayer margins |
Strength (MPa) | 360–400 MPa | 900–1,200 MPa | ~400 MPa (porcelain chips) |
Best Use | Front teeth, visible smile zone | Molars, implants, bruxers | Budget-conscious cases |
Tooth Reduction | Minimal | Moderate | More significant |
Metal-Free | Yes | Yes | No |
Avg. Cost (2026) | $1,200 to $2,500 | $1,200 to $2,500 | $900 to $1,800 |
Longevity | 10 to 15+ years | 15 to 20+ years | 5 to 15 years |
The Bottom Line on Crown Material
For patients prioritizing aesthetics, especially for front teeth, visible premolars, or anyone who wants their crown to be indistinguishable from a natural tooth, E-Max is the clear winner. The translucency and color-matching simply cannot be matched by full zirconia.
For patients with known bruxism (teeth grinding), very heavy bite forces, or who need a crown on a dental implant, zirconia’s higher strength (900–1,200 MPa) may be more appropriate. Dr. Markogiannakis will assess your specific bite, tooth position, and clinical needs to recommend the best material for you, not a one-size-fits-all answer.
PFM crowns remain a viable budget option but show their age: the metal substructure can cause a dark line at the gumline as gums recede, and the porcelain layer is prone to chipping in high-stress areas.
Who Is a Good Candidate for E-Max Dental Crowns?
E-Max crowns are appropriate for a wide range of clinical situations. You’re likely a strong candidate if:
- You have a cracked, broken, or heavily decayed tooth that still has a solid root and foundation
- You recently had a root canal and need to cap the treated tooth
- Your tooth is discolored, misshapen, or has old, failing restorations that need updating
- You want a metal-free, biocompatible restoration
- You’re in the aesthetic zone (front eight teeth) and care about how the crown looks
- You’ve been told by another dentist that you need a crown and want a second opinion
- You have no documented history of severe bruxism (or it’s well-managed with a nightguard)
Patients who grind their teeth severely may be better candidates for a zirconia crown or an E-Max crown paired with a custom night guard, which we also offer. We’ll talk through this with you, honestly, at your consultation. Our goal is not to upsell you on any material but to give your tooth the best long-term outcome.
The E-Max Dental Crown Process: What to Expect at Our Chevy Chase Office
Getting a dental crown at Smiles of Chevy Chase is a streamlined, comfortable process that’s typically completed in two appointments. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during or after the crown procedure. We use The Wand® computer-assisted anesthesia system to ensure injections are comfortable and precise. Here’s exactly what happens:
Your journey starts with a thorough exam. Dr. Markogiannakis will review your dental X-rays, evaluate the condition of the tooth, discuss your aesthetic goals, and confirm whether an E-Max crown or another restoration is the right solution. If you're coming in for a second opinion, that's completely welcome.
At your prep appointment, we gently reshape the affected tooth by removing a thin layer of enamel on all sides to create room for the crown. Because E-Max requires minimal reduction, this is less invasive than it sounds. We take digital impressions (no goopy trays), which are sent to our dental lab. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth in the meantime.
Our skilled lab technicians use your digital impressions and photos to design a crown that matches your surrounding teeth in shape, size, and shade. The lithium disilicate material is precisely pressed and fired at high temperature to achieve optimal strength and that signature translucency.
When your permanent crown arrives, we'll seat it temporarily and check the fit, bite, and appearance from every angle and in different lighting conditions. Any adjustments to shape, contact, or color can be made at this stage before final bonding.
Once everything looks and feels perfect, the crown is bonded into place using dental cement. We'll make any final occlusal (bite) adjustments, then polish the crown to a smooth, natural finish. Most patients walk out of this appointment wondering why they waited so long.
We'll send you home with specific aftercare instructions—what to expect in the first 24 to 48 hours, foods to briefly avoid, and how to care for your crown long-term. You'll also be scheduled for a follow-up check to confirm everything is settling well.
How to Care for Your E-Max Dental Crown
The good news is that caring for an E-Max crown is nearly identical to caring for your natural teeth. There’s no special protocol, just smart habits:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily, paying extra attention to the gumline where the crown meets the tooth
- Rinse with an alcohol-free antimicrobial mouthwash to protect gum health around the crown
- Avoid biting ice, hard candies, pen caps, or using your front teeth as tools
- If you grind your teeth at night, wear a custom night guard—this dramatically extends the life of any crown
- Attend regular 6-month checkups so we can monitor the crown’s fit and the surrounding tissue
- Limit staining substances (coffee, red wine, dark teas) or rinse with water after consuming them
- Contact us immediately if you feel the crown shift, crack, or cause unusual sensitivity
E-Max crowns that are well cared for can exceed 15 years of service. The variables that most shorten crown lifespan are untreated grinding, skipped cleanings, and biting on hard objects—all things you can control.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost in Chevy Chase, MD?
In the greater Washington, DC, and Chevy Chase areas, the average cost for an E-Max ceramic dental crown in 2026 typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 per crown. The actual cost for your crown will depend on:
- Which tooth is being crowned (front vs. back)
- The condition of the underlying tooth and any preparatory work needed
- Your dental insurance coverage—many plans cover a portion of the crown cost
- Whether a core buildup or other foundation work is required before the crown
We work with most major dental insurance plans and offer flexible financing options. We’ll provide you with a clear cost estimate at your consultation before any treatment begins.
Don’t let cost uncertainty delay care. A crown that protects a compromised tooth today is far less expensive than an extraction, implant, and restoration later. Ask about our financing options.
Serving Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Somerset, Forest Hills & Surrounding Areas
Smiles of Chevy Chase is conveniently located at 5454 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 810—easily accessible from Bethesda, Somerset, Forest Hills, Friendship Heights, and the broader Washington, DC metro area. Whether you’re searching for a ‘dental crown dentist near me’ in Montgomery County or specifically looking for an E-Max crown specialist near Bethesda, MD, our team is ready to help.
Dr. Markogiannakis has built one of the most respected restorative dentistry practices in the region, with recognition from Washingtonian Magazine, Bethesda Magazine, and Potomac Magazine year after year. Patients travel from across the greater DC area for the quality of our ceramic restorations.
If you’re local to Chevy Chase or neighboring communities and need a dental crown, you don’t have to look further. Call us at (301) 652-0656 or use the online booking link to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a dental crown or just a filling?
Generally, if more than 50% of a tooth’s chewing surface is compromised by decay or fracture, a crown provides better long-term protection than a large filling. A large filling can crack the remaining tooth walls over time. At your exam, Dr. Markogiannakis will show you exactly what’s happening with your tooth and explain the tradeoffs clearly.
Are E-Max crowns as strong as metal crowns?
For most everyday use, including front and back teeth in patients without severe grinding, yes. E-Max crowns reach 360–400 MPa of flexural strength, which handles normal bite forces well. Where metal or zirconia has an edge is in patients with documented bruxism or implant restorations requiring higher load distribution. We’ll tell you honestly if zirconia is the better choice for your situation.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel the preparation. Our office uses The Wand® computerized anesthesia system, which makes injections far more comfortable than traditional methods. After the appointment, some patients notice mild sensitivity for a few days—over-the-counter pain relievers are typically all that’s needed.
Will my dental crown look natural?
An E-Max crown placed by an experienced cosmetic dentist like Dr. Markogiannakis should be virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. The translucency of lithium disilicate closely replicates natural enamel, and our lab technicians customize every crown to match your surrounding teeth in shade, shape, and texture.
How many appointments does a dental crown take at your Chevy Chase office?
The dental crown process usually involves two main visits: the first for tooth preparation and fitting your temporary crown, and the second (about 2–3 weeks afterward) for the placement of your permanent restoration. To ensure your new crown feels and functions exactly as it should, we also include a quick follow-up evaluation.
What if I need a crown but I'm nervous about dental work?
We hear this often. Our practice offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation and oral conscious sedation for anxious patients. You’ll be relaxed, comfortable, and in full control throughout your appointment. Many of our most anxious patients become our most loyal patients after their first experience with us.
Transform Your Smile With E-Max Crowns!
Ready to enjoy the benefits of a brand new smile with lifelike E-Max crowns? At Smiles of Chevy Chase, under the guidance of Dr. Markogiannakis, we’re here to help you transform your smile with these exceptional restorations.
Take the first step towards your most radiant smile. Schedule a consultation by calling us at 301-652-0656. Discover how E-Max ceramic crowns can restore your smile and boost your confidence. Dr. Markogiannakis offers all-ceramic crowns to patients in the greater Washington area, including Chevy Chase and surrounding areas such as Bethesda, Somerset, and Forest Hills, MD.
Ready to Restore Your Smile? Schedule Your Dental Crown Consultation in Chevy Chase
A damaged or compromised tooth doesn’t have to hold your smile or your confidence back. E-Max ceramic dental crowns from Smiles of Chevy Chase give you a restoration that looks like the tooth you were born with, protects what’s underneath, and lasts for years.
Dr. Markogiannakis and our entire team are here to make the process easy, comfortable, and transparent from start to finish. We’ll give you a clear diagnosis, explain your options without pressure, and make sure you leave with a smile you’re genuinely proud of.
Call us at (301) 652-0656 to book your appointment at our Chevy Chase dental practice. Serving Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Somerset, Forest Hills, Friendship Heights & the greater Washington, DC area.
