Missing a tooth in a row? A bridge anchors a replacement to the teeth on either side without needing an implant. Smile Center Dentistry matches shade and shape to your surrounding teeth before anything is fabricated.
Material choice affects durability and cost differently depending on which tooth is involved, and we explain that honestly. A restoration is only as good as its fit, which is why we don't rush that step.
An intraoral scanner captures your bite precisely, sent directly to the lab without a messy impression tray. The scan also lets you see a preview of your bite before fabrication begins.
Zirconia, e.max, and porcelain-fused-to-metal each have trade-offs in strength, appearance, and cost — we walk through all three. Material recommendations are specific to the tooth, not a blanket default across every case.
A crown that's slightly high can cause pain within days — we catch that before you leave the chair. We'd rather take five extra minutes than have you return uncomfortable.
We don't consider the case done until you're chewing comfortably on it. Guarantee terms are explained clearly at your consult, not buried in paperwork.
Material and approach depend on which tooth and how much force it handles when you chew.
We shade-match zirconia carefully since it can appear less translucent than natural enamel if not planned well. Ideal when strength is the top priority.
A glass-ceramic material known for a more translucent, natural appearance, often preferred for front teeth. We explain when this material fits better than zirconia for your case.
PFM can show a thin metal line at the gumline over time, which we explain honestly before you choose it. A solid option for back teeth where appearance is less of a priority.
A bridge anchors a replacement tooth to the crowned teeth on either side of a gap. Bridges avoid surgery but do require altering the supporting teeth.
While your permanent crown is fabricated, a temporary protects the prepared tooth from sensitivity and damage. Same-day crown milling may be available depending on your case and material choice.
We evaluate whether repair or full replacement makes more sense for your specific restoration. We'll tell you honestly which option actually solves the problem.
We ask about the tooth's history — root canal, crack, missing — so we're prepared for your consult.
A temporary crown protects the tooth while your permanent restoration is made.
You choose based on a clear explanation of durability, appearance, and cost trade-offs.
Your finished crown or bridge is bonded and checked carefully for fit and bite alignment.
"Digital impression instead of that awful putty tray from my last dentist. So much more comfortable."
"Bridge instead of an implant since my adjacent teeth already needed crowns anyway. Made financial sense and they explained why."
"E.max crown on my front tooth blends in so well you genuinely cannot tell which one it is."
"They walked through all three material options with actual pros and cons instead of just picking one for me."
"Crown milling was done same-visit for my case, saved me a whole second appointment."
Typically two visits over one to two weeks — prep and impression first, then final fitting once the lab completes your restoration. Bridges involving multiple teeth sometimes take slightly longer to fabricate.
Zirconia suits back teeth needing strength; e.max often suits visible front teeth better. Budget is a legitimate factor too, and we'll discuss cost differences openly.
A bridge avoids surgery but involves the neighboring teeth; an implant doesn't touch them but requires a longer process. Cost and timeline both factor into this decision, and we lay out both clearly.
Front teeth get materials chosen specifically for translucency and natural appearance. Back teeth prioritize strength since they're less visible when you smile.
We'd rather you return for a quick adjustment than live with something that doesn't feel right. Most bite adjustments take just a few minutes chairside.
Cost depends on material choice and whether it's a single crown or a multi-tooth bridge — we quote this after your exam. We verify insurance benefits beforehand so you know your out-of-pocket cost.
Our team serves National Harbor and the surrounding zip codes with the same material-matched approach at every visit. Whether it's a single crown or a full bridge, our National Harbor lab relationships keep turnaround times predictable.
We'll match material and shade to your specific tooth, not a generic default.
Call +1-866-227-2801