Dental crowns differ from veneers in that a veneer only covers the front of a tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth, thus offering more protection.

In the past, most dental crowns were made of metal materials. These metal materials often discolored the gum area around the crown and were quite obvious in a person’s mouth.

Advantages of Dental Crowns:
• Dental crowns are made to match the color of your teeth
• They are very natural looking
• Comfortable and safe

Uses of Dental Crowns:
• Offer support to a tooth with a large filling
• Protect a weak tooth from further damage and breaking
• Restore a broken or cracked tooth
• Cover a badly discolored or misshapen tooth
• Cover a dental implant

Types of Dental Crowns:
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal
• All-porcelain

Porcelain-fused-to-metal are very strong and durable crowns. All-porcelain crowns are thinner and suitable for areas of the mouth that are not used as frequently in biting and chewing.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Dental Crown?
Getting a crown usually requires two appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist will make impressions, or molds, of the tooth that is to be covered by the crown.

The tooth is fitted with a temporary crown between visits while the new crown is being constructed. Any decay is removed from the affected tooth. It is then accurately shaped to fit the new crown.

During the second appointment, the tooth is cleaned and fitted with the new crown.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can last anywhere from five to fifteen years. With the right kind of care, they can last indefinitely. Proper care involves regular checkups and exams as well as keeping the crown clean and free of plaque by practicing good oral hygiene habits.

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    March Bishop

“Your Dentist office is exceptional. I am always impressed by the professionalism, cleanliness, and aesthetically pleasing environment. It is quite evident that your staff anticipates the needs of your patients. I particularly like the fact that you are prevention focused. On more than one occasion I have had my blood pressure checked in your office. This is health care at its best…integrating health promotion into your specialty practice. I am also impressed by the up to date, current knowledge of your staff. Again, thank you for keeping your office in such wonderful condition and for your expertise.”
    Kim Stauffer

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    Scott Priebe

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    Tony Hawkins

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    Cecilia Flores

Annapolis, Maryland – Thanks to the blitz of reality television makeover programs and direct-to-consumer marketing of teeth whitening products, consumer awareness of cosmetic dentistry has reached an all-time high. With so many options available to consumers to improve their smiles, it is now more important than ever for patients to ask their dentist about their experience in performing cosmetic procedures.

“Any patient considering a ‘smile makeover’ should ask their dentist about the education in cosmetic dental procedures that the doctor has undergone,” said American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Scott Finlay of Annapolis, Maryland. “A great indicator to know if your dentist focuses on cosmetic procedures is whether he or she is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.  The American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry now provides the gold standard in measuring the talents of a qualified cosmetic dentist via the accreditation credentialing process.”

AACD Recommendations When Seeking a Cosmetic Dentist
In order to make sure your dentist is skilled in cosmetic dentistry, the AACD recommends that you ask for the following items before undergoing treatment. As is the case when undergoing any dental treatment, please consult with your dentist to find out which procedure is right for you.

Before and After Photos – Examine the dentist’s treatment results on other patients to make sure their work fits your dental needs.

References – Get a sense from other patients as to what type of quality care the dentist provides.

Continuing Education – Be certain that your dentist is an active AACD member and has taken continuing education courses to keep up-to-date with the latest techniques in clinical cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Scott Finlay is an accredited member dentist with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and practices in Arnold, Maryland.  Information about Dr. Finlay and his practice can be found at www.AnnapolisSmiles.com.