Dental Crowns in Foggy Bottom, Washington, DC

Blossom Dentistry provides dental crowns & bridges in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, DC where various dental procedures, including dental crowns, are performed. Call us today at 202-922-2900 to schedule an appointment.

Dental Crowns

If a tooth structure is too damaged for a filling, we use dental crowns to restore function and appearance to damaged or decayed teeth. While dental crowns replace more of the tooth than a filling, they still allow us to save most of the natural tooth structure, including the root. This is important because by retaining the root, we can prevent bone loss in the jaw.

In the past, crowns meant having noticeable metal caps on your teeth, but now, we have more aesthetic options that look completely natural. If aesthetics aren’t a concern, as is sometimes the case with molars and other teeth that aren’t visible when you smile, we can provide durable crowns made with metal alloys. No matter what your needs, Blossom Dentistry has an option that’s right for you.

Common types of crowns include:

Ceramic

These crowns are ideal for repairing damage to teeth, when esthetics is a concern. They are made with tooth-colored ceramic that looks completely natural. When you smile, no one will guess that you have a crown. Ceramic crowns have really progressed over the years and can be used in all areas of the mouth.

Porcelain Fused to Metal

A popular option for many years, this type of crown has the natural appearance of a ceramic crown and the strength of metal alloy crowns for a result that is functional, durable, and aesthetic.

Gold Alloys

Crowns made with gold alloy are most commonly used to replace molars because they are the strongest material available. They are especially suited for patients who have a history of teeth grinding.

Base Metal Alloys

A base metal alloy crown is made with a combination of metals for a restoration that stands the test of time. These crowns are resistant to corrosion and often used when existing tooth structure is insufficient to support a ceramic or porcelain crown.

Dental Bridges

While crowns are used to restore damaged teeth, dental bridges restore teeth that are missing, providing a solution for patients with missing teeth. A bridge serves to bridge the gap in your smile by using two abutments on adjacent teeth to hold one or more pontics (replacement teeth) in place.

Common types of bridges include:

Traditional Dental Bridge

A traditional dental bridge is the most frequently used type of bridge. It involves placing two crowns on adjacent teeth to serve as abutments in order to hold one or more pontics.

Cantilever Bridge

While a traditional bridge is supported on two sides, a cantilever bridge is only supported by one abutment. This is most often used when a third molar is missing or in any other situation where there is only one adjacent tooth that can be used for support. Cantilever bridges can cause damage to the supporting tooth, so they are only used when there are no alternatives.

Implant Supported Bridge (Dental Implants)

Implant-supported bridges are similar in structure to a traditional bridge, with the primary difference being that these bridges are supported by dental implants rather than crowns. The process involves surgically inserting an implant post into the jaw and then attaching an abutment to secure the dental crown to the implant, providing a natural and functional replacement for a missing tooth. This helps preserve the jaw bone, prevents bone loss, and results in a strong restoration, thereby improving overall oral health.

Maryland Bridge

Also known as resin-bonded bridges, a Maryland bridge is an economical solution that uses a porcelain or metal framework to hold a bridge in place instead of crowns or dental implants. This framework is attached to the abutment teeth with dental cement, but it is not as strong as other types of bridges.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do bridges cost?

The cost depends on the type of bridge that you select. Traditional or cantilever bridges typically cost $2,000 to $5,000 for the pontic (replacement tooth) and a crown for each abutment tooth (the natural tooth next to the missing tooth). Maryland bridges typically cost $1,500 to $2,500 for one pontic with the framework, or wings, attached to the abutment tooth.

How long does a dental bridge last?

A bridge typically lasts between 5 to 15 years with good oral hygiene and regular checkups. Is a bridge covered by insurance? Dental insurance usually covers a portion of the cost for a traditional dental bridge.

Does getting a bridge hurt?

If you are sufficiently numb the process is not painful. You may have a little pain after the procedure, but the procedure itself is usually fairly painless.

How long after getting a bridge can I eat?

Immediately after the procedure it is recommended that you avoid sticky, chewy foods such as bagels, candy, or gummy bears; also stay away from crunchy, hard foods like nuts or chips. After 24 hours, you can resume normal eating.

Do bridges fall out?

Bridges can sometimes come loose or fall out. A bridge can lose its support if the teeth holding it in place are damaged by dental disease.

How do you clean under a dental bridge?

Gently move spongy floss between the gum and the base of the bridge, using a soft left to right, then right to left motion to remove plaque under the false tooth. Then wrap the spongy floss around the real teeth on the other side of the bridge, sliding up and down to clean the adjacent tooth surface.

How long after extraction can a bridge be fitted?

It can take up to six months for the bone to heal properly after an extraction. In most cases, you may need to wait at least 6 weeks to 3 months after an extraction, before a bridge is fitted.

Does a dental bridge feel natural?

Although your dental bridge should feel comfortable and like a natural tooth, it can take some people a short while to get used to it.

How much do dental crowns cost?

Crowns cost anywhere between $800 to $1700, but a portion of the cost is usually covered by insurance.

Why are crowns so expensive?

A permanent crown can vary greatly in price, but you get what you pay for. A permanent crown made with the latest technology and high quality materials may be more expensive upfront, but it also offers better protection and durability than a cheaper option.

How long do dental crowns last?

Crowns can last between five and fifteen years. The lifespan of a crown depends on the amount of wear and tear, oral hygiene practices, and other mouth-related habits like nail biting and teeth grinding.

Do cracked teeth need crowns?

If a tooth is cracked it usually requires a crown. Depending on the extent of the crack it may also need a root canal. If it goes below the gumline it may require crown lengthening or even a possible extraction.

Does whitening harm crowns?

No. Dental restorations are made with strong materials that aren’t affected by the bleach in teeth whitening treatments.

What is involved in getting a crown?

First, the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia and prepared for the crown, which involves removing decay and damage. A temporary crown is made from a resin/acrylic material using a molding of the original tooth. This crown is cemented with temporary cement so it can come off easily when the permanent crown is ready. When the final crown is ready to be placed, it is permanently cemented on.

Can I get a cavity under a crown?

Yes, the area of the remaining tooth is still vulnerable to cavities. If a cavity does form under the crown, the crown will need to be removed to fill the cavity. Then, a new crown is placed.

Can crowns fall off?

Yes, a crown may come loose if there is decay underneath it. The decay destroys part of the tooth so it no longer holds a tight grip on the crown.

Do crowns get stained?

Yes, it is possible that crowns can stain over time.

How long after a crown is cemented can I eat?

Once the crown is cemented on, it is best to avoid sticky foods for the first 24 hours. After that you can eat, drink, and clean your teeth like you did prior to the crown.

How long should a crown hurt?

The pain and discomfort after a crown typically improves after several days or weeks without any assigned treatment.

What is involved in the dental crown procedure?

The dental crown procedure involves several steps, including preparation of the affected tooth, impression taking, and final placement. The process typically requires two office visits. During the first visit, the damaged or decayed tooth is prepared and an impression is taken. A temporary crown is placed while the custom crown is being made. At the second visit, the custom crown is fitted and permanently cemented, ensuring comfort and precision.

What are custom dental crowns?

Custom dental crowns are precision-made dental restorations crafted specifically for each patient in an in-house dental lab. These crowns offer superior quality, function, appearance, and longevity, often lasting for many years or even a lifetime. This dental crown process is designed to match the natural beauty of your smile and is made using advanced technology.

What are same day crowns?

Same day crowns are a convenient and efficient option for dental restorations. They are created and placed in a single dental office visit, saving time and restoring smiles with precision and care. This service highlights the expertise of the dental team and their patient-focused approach to dental health.

Call 202-922-2900 to schedule an appointment.

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Dental Crowns in Washington DC: Foggy Bottom Services