
Jan
If you have a damaged, weakened, or heavily restored tooth, a dental crown may be the best way to protect your smile and restore proper function. At Matthew H. Wallengren, D.D.S., P.A. in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Matthew Wallengren provides custom dental crowns designed to look natural, feel comfortable, and last for years. Whether your tooth has been affected by decay, trauma, or a previous large filling, crowns can help preserve your natural tooth while improving its strength and appearance.
Patients searching for a dentist for tooth crowns in Baltimore, MD, often have questions about the process, materials, and long-term benefits. Below, we answer some of the most common questions patients ask so you can feel confident and informed before starting treatment:
A dental crown is a custom restoration that fully covers a damaged or weakened tooth, acting like a protective cap. Crowns are commonly recommended after a root canal, when a tooth has a large cavity, or when a tooth is cracked or worn down. They restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function while preventing further damage. Crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.
Several dental crown materials are available, including porcelain, zirconia, other tooth-colored options, as well as gold. While gold crowns are very effective and durable, Dr. Wallengren often recommends porcelain or white crowns in the anterior because they blend beautifully with your teeth. These modern materials are strong, long-lasting, and designed to provide both function and aesthetics. Tooth-colored crowns are especially popular for visible teeth, as they restore your smile without drawing attention.
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10 – 15 years, but typically longer. Longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene habits, bite alignment, and whether you grind or clench your teeth. Flossing and brushing twice daily, and attending routine dental checkups, help extend the life of your crown. Avoiding habits like chewing ice or using your teeth as tools also protects your restoration.
Most patients find the crown procedure very comfortable. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring you don’t feel pain during treatment. Some mild sensitivity or soreness afterward is normal and usually subsides quickly. Dr. Wallengren and his team take a gentle, patient-focused approach to ensure your comfort every step of the way.
Caring for a crowned tooth is similar to caring for natural teeth. Floss and brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, and maintain regular dental visits. While crowns themselves cannot decay, the underlying tooth and surrounding gums still need protection. Good oral hygiene helps prevent issues like gum disease or decay at the crown’s edges.
If you’re looking for a trusted dentist who can place quality dental crowns, Dr. Matthew Wallengren and his team are here to help. At Matthew H. Wallengren, D.D.S., P.A., we combine advanced materials with personalized care to restore your smile’s health, strength, and appearance. To learn more about dental crowns or to schedule a consultation, call (410) 431-1868. We look forward to helping you smile with confidence.
Dr. Matthew Wallengren is a respected dentist providing comprehensive and quality dental care in Baltimore, MD. He graduated with honors from the University of Maryland Dental School in 1999 with academic and prosthodontic honors and completed his residency at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. Dr. Wallengren is known for his meticulous approach, ensuring every aspect of oral health is addressed. His commitment to his patients and active community involvement highlight his empathy for people and authority in dentistry. Patients can count on his extensive expertise and experience, confident they will receive the exceptional care he would expect for himself.
