Philip Feldman’s teeth had always been discolored, and were starting to chip. He decided it was time to do something about it, and as a longtime patient of Ellicott Mills Dental, he turned to Dr. Ford to help improve their appearance.
After scheduling a consultation to discuss options, pros and cons, and cost, he and Dr. Ford settled on dental crowns. These caps that fit over existing teeth presented the perfect solution, since their ultimate purpose is to improve the look of a tooth while making it stronger and more productive.
TIME FOR A WAX-UP
First, the team at Ellicott Mills Dental took study models of Philip’s teeth and sent them to the dental lab for a wax-up.
The lab used the models of Philip’s existing smile to build his teeth up to the ideal shape and size, so he could visualize what they would look like before committing to following through with the procedure.
Showing Philip this new and improved model of his smile gave Dr. Ford a chance to make any changes to the proposed design before beginning his treatment.
The lab was also able to use Philip’s study models to fabricate temporary crowns for him. This allowed him to actually live with the new shape and size of his teeth for a couple of weeks before the permanent crowns were delivered. That way, he had plenty of time to let Dr. Ford know about any cosmetic changes he wanted to make before proceeding with the final crowns.
PEARLY WHITES
In addition to fixing the chips, Philip also wanted his discolored teeth to look naturally whiter. Since they had such dark staining, he and Dr. Ford discussed choosing a ceramic material for the crowns that would be able to mask the dark color of the original teeth. They also talked about what the final shade should be for the new crowns.
The reason Dr. Ford opted for dental crowns over veneers in this case is that veneers are thinner and only cover the front of the tooth, while crowns are thicker and cover the entire tooth.
Although crowns require more tooth preparation, they’re also stronger and provide better coverage over dark teeth.
SECOND CONSULTATION & TREATMENT
Satisfied with his initial consultation and plan of action, Philip returned to Ellicott Mills Dental for a second consultation to analyze the final waxed-up models. He was very excited about his new smile.
The full treatment, from his first consultation to walking out of the office with his new crowns in place, only took two appointments. Since Philip’s teeth were already prepared for his permanent crowns during his first appointment and his temporary crowns were made in advance, all that was left to do was make the switch.
Philip tried them on without cement first – his one final chance to approve the size, shape, and color – and then they were permanently cemented in place.
AFTER-CARE
Once permanent crowns are cemented, they only require regular brushing and flossing and routine dental cleanings and exams – nothing extra. Philip was very happy with the results.
RESULTS TO SMILE ABOUT
When Philip returned to the Ellicott Mills Dental office some time later for his routing cleaning, he said, “I couldn’t stop smiling. I hid my smile for years because I was unhappy with my teeth, and now I’m smiling constantly!”
“It makes me really happy to see someone’s face light up when they see their new smile for the first time.”
-Dr. Kimberly Ford
To learn more about dental crowns or schedule an appointment, contact us today.
For more information about dental crowns and other procedures to improve the health and appearance of your teeth, visit the American Dental Association’s website.
