Sep
If your tooth is damaged in an accident or suffers severe decay that a filling alone can’t fix, your Alexandria, Virginia dentist may recommend crowning it to restore its structure and usefulness. A dental crown completely covers your tooth, giving it a new structure for biting and chewing. Dr. Alonzo Bell from The Bell Dental Group is your go-to dentist for crowns near me in Alexandria, VA. Here’s what you should know about crown treatment.
Crowns are hollow false teeth placed over compromised natural teeth to restore their weak, worn, or damaged structure. Dr. Bell will modify your tooth to accommodate a crown. We’ll then take impressions of your teeth to have a crown custom-fitted for your use. The crown encases your tooth completely, restoring its original shape, function, and appearance.
Dental crowns can be made from different materials, like porcelain, ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, gold, or other metal alloys. Metal crowns are more enduring, lasting a lifetime with good oral care. However, they can be eyesores regarding aesthetics, so they’re usually reserved for back teeth. Crowns placed on front teeth are usually ceramic, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal, with a natural tooth-colored appearance. These crowns enhance your smile’s aesthetics.
Dental crowns serve many purposes in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Bell may crown a broken or fractured tooth to restore its structure. Crowns on weak or worn teeth protect them from damage and extend their lifespan. Crowns are generally placed on root canal teeth for strength and support after removing the pulp. Teeth with large fillings may be crowned to keep them from fracturing. Crowning misshapen or odd-sized teeth can improve your smile’s overall appearance.
Metal crowns can last indefinitely. With proper care, porcelain and ceramic crowns can last 15 to 20 years. The porcelain material used for crowns is selected for its durability and endurance. It’s comparable to the strength and hardness of natural tooth enamel.
No. You brush and floss crowned teeth just like you do the rest of your teeth. Crowns are impervious to decay, but the teeth under the crowns aren’t. Good oral hygiene protects your natural teeth from decay and gum disease. Regular dental cleanings are also essential to the success of your dental crown treatment. Â
No. Dr. Bell will use a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable for this treatment. You won’t feel pain when your tooth is trimmed or reshaped to accommodate a crown or during crown placement.
Look no further than The Bell Dental Group in Alexandria, VA. To schedule a consultation for crown treatment, feel free to contact Dr. Alonzo Bell at (703) 783-4557.
Dr. Alonzo M. Bell, DDS, brings over 30 years of dedicated dental care to his patients in Washington, DC, and Alexandria, Virginia. A graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, he specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Bell’s commitment to excellence is evident through his extensive continuing education and leadership roles, including serving as President of the Virginia Dental Association. His active involvement with the American Dental Association and Northern Virginia Dental Society and community service projects highlights his trustworthiness and compassion. Patients appreciate his attention to detail and inclusive, patient-focused approach.
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