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Dental Crowns

Damaged, decayed, or missing teeth can cause pain and make it difficult to eat or speak. 

A dental crown can restore the function of your bite as well as improve your oral health. 

The dentists at Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. in Washington, DC, can craft custom dental crowns.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a restoration commonly used to cover a tooth following extensive trauma or decay. Crowns provide much-needed support to damaged or decayed teeth and can also be used with dental implants to replace a lost tooth.

Crowns Can Also
Be Purely Cosmetic

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Some patients are seeking cosmetic upgrades without necessarily needing restorative dentistry. A crown can be used to address a concern like discolored teeth that don't respond to teeth whitening. During your consultation, we can determine if a crown is the best way to achieve your aesthetic goals.

We Use Premium Materials For Our Dental Crowns

Our Washington, DC, dentistry practice crafts dental crowns from zirconia. It is at least three times stronger than porcelain. This is also a great option for people with allergies or sensitivities to certain metals. With proper care and hygiene, zirconia will last much longer than porcelain. Like porcelain, a zirconia crown will be matched to your teeth to give you a natural-looking appearance. 

In addition to their strength and longevity, zirconia crowns are often preferred for their high biocompatibility. A high level of biocompatibility is key because it means zirconia crowns should avoid adverse health effects that metal crowns and other alternatives could lead to. 

Choose Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. for Your Dental Crown

Our practice, like our highly experienced dentists, sets itself apart. We have a team of ten skilled coordinators, hygienists, and assistants. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is particularly noted for providing great assistance in navigating insurance issues. 

We have also taken action to provide premier sanitation by outfitting our Washington, DC, practice with high-vacuum air purifiers in all rooms to further minimize the risk of COVID and other infections. Contact us online or call us to book your initial consultation with elite dentists and a skilled staff in an immaculate environment. 

(202) 293-5805

Office

Washington, DC, Loves Our Team

"​Most professional and skilled team I've ever been to." ​Caleb McLean

The Cost of Dental Crowns

Crown

Each case and the course of treatment is unique, therefore costs will vary based on patient need. In most cases, dental crowns are considered a restorative dentistry procedure, and most insurances will contribute to the costs. Our staff is extremely knowledgeable about insurance coverage, and we will work with you to file the necessary paperwork and make the most of your benefits.

It is important to remember that dental insurance does not cover cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as using a crown to improve the appearance of a tooth. Your dental health is important to us, so we offer flexible financing options and accept CareCredit® and several major credit cards to help with out-of-pocket costs.

Crowns and Bridges Are a Powerful Dental Combination

Dental Crown

If you are missing one or more teeth, our Washington, DC, practice can replace them with dental bridges anchored by our premium crowns. 

Our modern approach to this time-tested solution restores the form, function, and appearance of your smile. While dental implant-supported restorations offer the highest level of support and stability, candidacy is limited. If you need a dependable tooth replacement solution that looks natural and benefits your oral health, but you either do not want or do not qualify for dental implants, we can explore this option with you.

Find Out What Works for You

We can provide a single crown, multiple crowns, bridges, and more. Our team has the experience and skill to listen to your needs and let you know which choice works best. To find out which of our dentistry options is right for you, simply call (202) 293-5805 or write to our team today. 

Washington, DC, Recommends Us

1

Cecilia Papariello

2022

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I switched here after a bad dentist experience. Truly the best dentist I’ve ever had, and the hygienists are so gentle and kind! Everyone is very patient and takes time with you to explain options.

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1

Leah W

2022

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I have been going here for a number of years and they do great work. Anissa is a stand out and finally got me flossing every day!

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We Are Committed to Your Comfort

Many patients struggle with dental anxiety that causes them to avoid treatments they need, like dental crowns. Others simply dislike the feeling of certain procedures, such as taking impressions of teeth in need of restorations. Our team has taken several steps to alleviate anxiety and provide comfortable, effective treatment. For example, we use an iTero® digital scanner to capture dental impressions. This advanced digital technology makes precise 3D images of your bite without the need for uncomfortable dental putty. We also use local anesthesia to numb dental pain. Please don't hesitate to let us know what we can do to make each and every visit comfortable for you.

Dental Crown Process

Consultation and Planning

Everyone has unique dental needs, and your dentist will perform an initial evaluation to determine the right treatment plan for you. Depending on your needs, a root canal may be performed before the dental crown is placed. If you are missing a tooth or require an extraction, a dental crown can be used to restore a dental implant to prevent bone deterioration. In cases of extraction or implant placement, healing time will factor into the treatment timeline.

Taking Impressions

Impressions are taken to craft your custom crown. Our Washington, DC, dentists also color-match the material to ensure the permanent crown will resemble your natural teeth. Your impressions will be sent to a lab where skilled technicians will craft it. Turnaround times vary, but it will generally take about two weeks for your permanent crown to arrive.

Prepping the Tooth

Your dentist will reshape the tooth by removing a very small amount of enamel to allow the dental crown to fit properly. A temporary crown will be put in place to protect the exposed tooth while the permanent crown is made. This temporary crown will allow you to eat and speak normally while you wait on your permanent crown to come back from the lab.

Placing the Crown

When your permanent crown is completed, you will have an appointment at our office to place it. If you have been wearing a temporary crown, your dentist will remove the temporary crown to clean the underlying tooth. The permanent crown can be adjusted at this point to ensure comfort and a proper bite.

Request Your Crown Consultation

Now that you understand what crowns can do for you, and why so many people turn to our Washington, DC, team for restorations that are equally functional and natural-looking, we invite you to request your consultation. Call (202) 293-5805 or send us a message to book a time to meet with our dentists to discuss dental crowns.

"I left the office smiling." Why Washington, DC, Recommends Our Practice

1

Andrea Husbands

2022

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I have not been to the dentist in years and this office came as a recommendation. I was terrified but Dr. Thornton and Jamie crew put me at ease. Sonya my hygienist was amazing and treated me with so much care. Office is clean and comfortable. Front staff are very friendly... I left the office smiling and laughing which I did not expect.

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1

Alissa Swango

2022

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I am a new patient and was referred to this office by a friend. Since the very first intake call, I have been unexpectedly over- impressed by this dental office. I have never once had a reason to say that ever in my life.

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Commonly Asked Questions

What is the difference between a crown and a cap?

Dental crowns used to be referred to as caps. However, most dentists today use the term “crown.” There is no difference between a cap and a crown. It is simply a matter of terminology.

Does getting a crown hurt?

Our Washington, DC, dentists will ensure that you are comfortable during your treatment. When the tooth is being reshaped, you will be numbed using a local anesthetic. It is important to communicate with your dentist during and after treatment. If your crown is causing pain, or if you experience any sort of discomfort, please let your dentist know so he can make adjustments.

How long will my crown last? 

The typical lifespan of a dental crown is around 15 years. The zirconia crowns we offer are much stronger than typical porcelain options, making them more likely to last longer than the porcelain alternative. While a decade and a half is already a great return on your investment, you should know that crowns can last even longer with proper care. Our dentists will give you the best suggestions for taking care of your crown, which will include hygiene guidelines and eating tips. 

Wouldn't it be cheaper and easier to just have a damaged tooth pulled?

It is important to remember that even a single missing tooth can cause the jawbone to recede and can cause other teeth to shift. This can create long-term issues that will require more extensive treatments later. If the tooth is strong enough, it is best to save it. A crown can protect what is left of the tooth, keep the tooth roots in place to prevent jawbone atrophy, and prevent the remaining healthy teeth from shifting.

More Great Reviews From Washington, DC

"Great people, giving good care." James Lytle
Dr. Will Thornton and Dr. Nathan Van der Linden

Thornton Dental Associates, P.C.

The friendly team of professionals at Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. provides comprehensive dental care to patients throughout Washington, DC. Dr. Will Thornton and Dr. Nathan Van der Linden are affiliated with prestigious organizations, including the:

- American Dental Association
- District of Columbia Dental Society

To request an appointment at our Washington, DC, dental office,
contact us online or call (202) 293-5805.

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