3 Different Ways That Dental Crowns Are Made

Three Manufacturing Methods Explained

There are three different ways to manufacture a dental crown. They can be milled on a machine according to stock images, fabricated in a commercial laboratory, or handcrafted to each patient’s custom aesthetics by an in-house dental technician. The latter is how we do it at Prosthetic Dentistry of Washington, D.C. because we strive for perfection.

Each method has distinct tradeoffs in terms of cost, time, and most importantly, quality and longevity. Understanding these differences helps you make an informed decision about your dental restoration.

In the video below, top-rated prosthodontist Dr. Gerald Marlin explains the limitations of milled and commercial crowns. These restorations often fall short of providing the proper fit and aesthetics we want our patients to enjoy. Milled crowns follow predetermined shapes and lack the subtle customization that individual teeth require. Commercial laboratories, while efficient, cannot capture the nuances of your smile or your bite the way our in-house team can. We believe that you deserve exceptional results that last.

Restore Your Smile With Custom Dental Crowns That Last Over 35 Years

Our crowns tend to fit better, look more natural, and last longer than those created by third-party technicians who have never seen your actual smile. When our technician meets you, examines your teeth, and discusses your preferences, that personal connection translates into a restoration that truly matches your dentition. The dental crowns produced in our on-site lab have, with proper care, lasted for 35 years or more. This longevity isn’t accidental, it’s the result of meticulous craftsmanship and Dr. Marlin’s direct involvement in ensuring each crown meets his exacting standards.

Our in-house laboratory advantage means faster turnaround times, fewer adjustments needed, and better communication throughout the process. If your crown needs tweaking, our technician can make it immediately rather than sending it back to an outside lab.

Schedule a consultation at 202-244-2101 to learn how custom crowns can address issues with your natural teeth or with dental work done elsewhere. Prosthetic Dentistry of Washington, D.C. serves Washington, D.C., Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Arlington, and nearby areas of Maryland and Virginia.