All-Ceramic Dental Crowns

in Greenbelt, MD

With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10-15 years or longer. Many of our patients have crowns that have served them well for 20+ years. Factors affecting longevity include your oral hygiene practices, habits like teeth grinding, and regular dental check-ups. Our same-day crowns are made from high-quality materials that offer excellent durability comparable to traditional lab-made crowns.

When you hear the term "same day crown," it might sound too good to be true, but thanks to advancements in dental technology, it's a reality. At McCarl Dental Group, we utilize cutting-edge CEREC technology, allowing Dr. Clayton McCarl to design, create, and place your crown in just one appointment. The entire process typically takes about two hours. During your visit, we begin by preparing your tooth, which involves removing any decay and shaping the tooth to fit the crown.

Next, a digital scan is taken, capturing a precise 3D image of your tooth. This image is used to design your custom crown right there in the office. With the design complete, the CEREC machine mills your crown from a high-quality ceramic block. Once ready, the crown is polished and bonded to your tooth, restoring your smile and function in just a single visit. It’s a convenient and efficient solution for those with busy schedules.

We use effective local anesthesia to ensure you don't feel pain during the procedure. Our digital impression system eliminates the discomfort often associated with traditional impression materials. After the procedure, you might experience mild sensitivity for a day or two, but this typically resolves quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

CEREC crowns are crafted from a solid block of ceramic, specifically designed to match the natural aesthetics of your teeth. Ceramic is chosen for its durability and its ability to mimic the translucence and color of natural tooth enamel. This material is not only strong but also biocompatible, meaning it’s unlikely to cause any adverse reactions in your mouth. The ceramic material used in CEREC crowns is carefully selected to ensure it withstands the forces of chewing and grinding, providing a long-lasting solution for tooth restoration. 

At McCarl Dental Group, we take pride in offering crowns that not only restore the function of your teeth but also enhance the beauty of your smile. With CEREC technology, we can customize the shade and shape of your crown to seamlessly blend with your existing teeth, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.

Same-day crowns offer several advantages: you'll need only one appointment instead of two, there's no need for a temporary crown (which can come loose or feel uncomfortable), and you won't have to take multiple days off work or arrange additional childcare. When appropriate for your case, our same-day crowns provide excellent quality and durability, using the same high-grade ceramics as many lab-made restorations. That said, some patients may be better suited for a lab-made crown depending on the location of the tooth, bite alignment, or other clinical factors—we’ll always recommend what’s best for your long-term dental health.

The cost of a CEREC crown can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your case and whether additional treatments are required. On average, you can expect the cost to be comparable to traditional crowns, which typically range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth. At McCarl Dental Group, we believe in transparency and will provide you with a detailed estimate during your consultation. 

We also work with a variety of insurance providers and offer flexible payment options to help make your dental care more affordable. Investing in a CEREC crown means you’re choosing a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and time-efficient solution for your dental needs. Our team is here to guide you through the financial aspects of your treatment, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

One of the major advantages of CEREC crowns is that they allow you to return to your normal routine almost immediately after placement. Once your crown is securely bonded, you can eat and drink as you normally would. However, we recommend avoiding very hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours to ensure the crown sets properly. It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, to keep your crown and surrounding teeth healthy.

At McCarl Dental Group, we provide you with personalized aftercare instructions to ensure your crown remains in optimal condition. Regular dental check-ups are also essential to monitor the health of your crown and overall oral health. Our team is always available to address any concerns or questions you may have, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable with your new smile.