What to Expect with Dental Crowns

A dental crown is often used to cover a damaged or badly decayed tooth. When the crown is placed in your mouth, it fits fully over the tooth, encasing the tooth to help protect it from further damage. A crown may also be used with a dental implant or as a cosmetic fix for a tooth that is badly discolored, chipped, or broken.

Additionally, in our office, we often recommend a crown to cover a tooth that has been treated using root canal therapy. 

How Many Appointments Does a Crown Require?

At Dr. Fairfax and Associates Family Dentistry, we have streamlined the dental crown process using CEREC crown technology, making it much faster and more convenient. With CEREC technology, we can provide same-day crowns, meaning you can have your crown created and fitted in just one appointment.

Same-day crowns provide the same durability and last just as long as traditional crowns, and the entire process, from preparing your tooth to cementing the crown in place, can be completed in only a couple of hours.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Crowns are durable, but you will still want to take extra care to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. To keep your crown in good shape, avoid eating foods that could damage your teeth, like hard candy and sticky foods. Also, avoid chewing on hard objects, like ice or your pencil. 

Regular brushing and flossing are important to keep your teeth and gums healthy, including your crown, and if you tend to grind your teeth at night or clench your jaw, look into purchasing a night guard. The wear and tear from teeth grinding can damage a crown, in addition to your natural teeth, and clenching your jaw can put pressure on the crown that can potentially cause it to crack or break. 

Overall, crowns are easy to care for and could last you well over a decade if you heed the above suggestions and maintain good oral health.

Beautiful, Durable Dental Crowns in Fairfax, VA

If you are in need of a dental crown in the Fairfax, VA area, we are here to help you. Dr. Cerina W. Fairfax is experienced in creating and fitting crowns to fit your smile and protect your weakened or damaged teeth. Call our office today to schedule your appointment to see if a crown is the right choice for you.