If your tooth is cracked, chipped, or damaged, we can utilize a dental crown to restore it. A dental crown is a ceramic tooth that acts as a cap for your damaged tooth. The dental crown allows for patients to keep the foundational support of their natural tooth while also enjoying the renewed aesthetics of a restored tooth. As your trusted restorative dentist in Westminster, MD, Dr. Bowersox provides same-day dental crowns using CEREC technology. CEREC crowns are made in one visit and do not require the use of a temporary crown which eliminates potential discomfort. Additionally, CEREC crowns are durable and restore your tooth to its natural strength, beauty, and function, while closely matching the composition of your natural tooth structure. Using CEREC’s proprietary software, your same-day dental crown will be designed according to your tooth’s appropriate form and function. Dr. Bowersox will then treat your affected tooth and firmly secure the restoration.

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding our dental crowns:

Why are the benefits of same-day crowns?

With traditional crowns, your tooth is shaved down to its foundational core and then topped with a temporary crown. The temporary crown can fall off at any time, exposing your dentin which can cause sensitivity and discomfort. With same-day crowns, we eliminate the need for a temporary crown as well as an additional trip to our office. Instead, you get to leave our office with a completely restored tooth.

Will a dental crown blend in with the rest of my smile?

Yes. Our dental crowns are designed to blend in with the rest of your smile. The ceramic tooth is designed from tooth-colored material that shines and reflects light similarly to your natural tooth’s aesthetics. No one should be able to tell that your tooth is replaced with a dental crown unless you tell them so.

What is the difference between a dental crown and a dental implant?

A dental implant is a complete tooth replacement. This means that your tooth must first be extracted before it can be replaced. Additionally, a dental implant requires a surgical procedure to replace and restore your missing tooth. Dental crowns are for patients who have a tooth that is salvageable. We do not like to remove a permanent tooth if at all possible, so dental crowns are a great way to avoid doing that. Instead of extracting the broken tooth, we shave it down to its foundational core and replace its exterior with a newly improved ceramic topper.

How should I care for my dental crown?

You can care for your dental crown by brushing and flossing it as you would your natural tooth. It’s important to know that dental crowns do not respond to whitening treatments, so if you utilize a bleaching product on your surrounding teeth, the dental crown will remain the same color as when it was applied. With good oral hygiene habits and regularly schedule preventative care appointments, your dental crown can last up to 15 years and sometimes longer.