Crown Specialist

Barbara Baxter, D.M.D.

Dentists located in Washington, DC

Dental crowns are common. In fact, the number of Americans with dental crowns is on the rise. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 15 million people in the United States have crowns put in place of missing teeth. The dentists at Barbara Baxter, DMD are highly trained professionals that can explain your crown options. Call or make an appointment online if you suspect you may need a new crown or crown repair. Barbara Baxter, DMD is conveniently located near you in Washington, DC.

Crown Q & A

What is a crown?

A crown is a piece of metal, plastic, ceramic, or porcelain that covers a damaged tooth. It's designed in the shape of the original tooth and can improve its appearance and strength. The crown fits over the tooth and is cemented into place so that the original tooth is completely encased.

Why would I need a crown?

There are a variety of reasons the experienced dentists at Barbara Baxter, DMD may suggest a crown. A crown can cover a strangely-shaped or dark tooth, or a dental implant.



Which kind of crown is right for my teeth?

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:

  • Stainless steel
  • Gold or another alloy
  • Porcelain fused to metal
  • Resin
  • Ceramic

The material used depends on a range of factors. For instance, stainless steel is typically the go-to material for temporary crowns. It's common for dentists to use prefabricated stainless steel crowns to cap children's baby teeth.

Metal crowns are durable and able to tolerate the impact of biting and chewing, but due to their color, they’re usually reserved for use in the back of the mouth.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns are more aesthetically pleasing than stainless steel crowns, but they aren't perfect. For example, the opposing teeth may endure more wear than they would with other types of crowns, and the metal portion of the crown may show as a dark line near the gums.


What's involved with a dental crown procedure?

A dental crown procedure generally requires at least two visits to the dentist. The first visit will include X-rays so that your Barbara Baxter, DMD dental professional can evaluate the condition of the tooth in question.

Next, your dentist will administer anesthesia, then file down or build up the tooth so that the crown can be attached properly. After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will make an impression of your teeth, which a lab will use to manufacture the crown. Your dentist will cover your tooth with a temporary crown until the permanent custom crown is finished.

Getting a dental crown can be a simple, easy process. To discuss your crown options, contact the experienced team at Barbara Baxter, DMD or make an appointment online.