Custom Restorations With a Seamless Fit
- Crowns planned with advanced digital technology
- Comprehensive general, cosmetic, and restorative care in one office
- Insurance and flexible financing accepted for dental crowns
Choose Thornton Dental Associates, P.C.
For Your Dental Crown in Washington, DC
Our practice, like our highly experienced dentists, sets itself apart. We have a team of ten skilled coordinators, hygienists, and assistants. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is particularly noted for providing great assistance in navigating insurance issues.
Our dentist in Washington, DC, has also taken action to provide premier sanitation by outfitting his Washington, DC, practice with high-vacuum air purifiers in all rooms to minimize the risk of infections. Contact us online or call us to request your initial consultation with elite dentists and a skilled staff in an immaculate environment.
Meet Our Elite Dentists
The Artists Behind Your Custom Restoration
Dr. Will Thornton
Dr. Thornton completed an AEGD residency program after medical school, learning to treat medically compromised and special needs patients.
Dr. Nathan Van der Linden
Dr. Van der Linden completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at Dalhousie University, one of Canada's top dental schools.
Affordable Crown Care
Insurance and Financing Accepted
Each case and the course of treatment is unique, so costs will vary based on patient need. In most cases, dental crowns are considered a restorative dentistry procedure, and most insurances will contribute to the costs. Our Washington, DC, staff is extremely knowledgeable about insurance coverage, and we will work with you to file the necessary paperwork and make the most of your benefits.
It's important to remember that dental insurance does not cover cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as using a crown to improve the appearance of a tooth. Your dental health is important to us, so we offer flexible financing options and accept CareCredit® and several major credit cards to help with out-of-pocket costs.
Washington, DC,
Loves Our Team
"The greatest dental practice group in DC! Anissa is by far the best dental hygienist I have ever had - she is knowledgeable and takes the time to answer all of my questions - she has completely turned my dental care regime around for the better! Dr. Van der Linden is an excellent dentist and a great addition to the group. They offer top-notch technology and tools, great music and a clean and comfortable atmosphere. The front desk staff is always friendly and helpful - I highly recommend this practice!"
— Jessica, 5-Star Review
Committed to Your Comfort
Advanced Tech for Streamlined Care
Many patients struggle with dental anxiety that causes them to avoid treatments they need, like dental crowns. Others simply dislike the feeling of certain procedures, such as taking impressions of teeth in need of restoration. Our Washington, DC, team has taken several steps to alleviate anxiety and provide comfortable, effective treatment. For example, we use an iTero® digital scanner to capture dental impressions. This advanced digital technology makes precise 3D images of your bite without the need for uncomfortable dental putty. We also use local anesthesia to numb dental pain.
Please don't hesitate to let us know what we can do to make each and every visit comfortable for you.
"I have been going to this practice for almost 20 years for cleanings and routine dental issues. It has always consistently been great. This year I had Dr. Van der Linden help me with some much needed “cosmetic” dentistry and the results were fantastic! Dr. VdL made the whole process from beginning to end easy and painless. He took such great care and showed such attention to detail with the veneers I got — he was like an artist! I could tell how much pride he took in his craft and how important it was to him to get it just right — exactly what you would dream of in a doctor doing this kind of work."
— Daniel, 5-Star Review
One Treatment, Many Uses
Damaged Tooth
A dental crown can support a damaged tooth when it cannot be repaired with a filling, inlay, or onlay. If the tooth is so compromised that it cannot support a dental crown, then that tooth may require an extraction.
Missing Tooth
If you are missing a tooth or require extraction, an implant-supported crown can replace the tooth from the root to the chewing surface. An implant provides the necessary support for the crown and helps stop the jawbone atrophy that occurs with tooth loss.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is used when severe tooth decay reaches the soft tissue inside the tooth and roots, causing an infection. A crown is used following root canal treatment to cover the tooth and protect it.
Crowns Can Also Be Purely Cosmetic
Some patients are seeking cosmetic upgrades without necessarily needing restorative dentistry. A crown can be used to address a concern like discolored teeth that don't respond to teeth whitening. During your consultation, we can determine if a crown is the best way to achieve your aesthetic goals.
Restore Your Smile
With a Dental Crown
A damaged or decayed tooth can be painful and even unsightly. A dental crown looks just like a natural tooth and can help restore the function, health, and appearance of your smile while preserving your tooth structure.
Not sure if a dental crown is right for you? Request a consultation at our dental practice in DC by filling out our online form or by calling us today.
Traditional Crowns vs. Implant-Supported Crowns
Which is right for me?
A traditional crown may be the best treatment if you have a:
Decayed tooth
Damaged tooth
An implant-supported crown may be right if you have a:
Missing tooth
Tooth requiring extraction
We Use Premium Materials
For Our Dental Crowns
Our Washington, DC, dentistry practice crafts dental crowns from zirconia. Zirconia crowns are at least three times stronger than porcelain crowns. Zirconia is also a great option for people with allergies or sensitivities to certain metals. With proper care and hygiene, zirconia will last much longer than porcelain. Like a porcelain crown, a zirconia crown will be matched to your teeth to give you a natural-looking appearance.
In addition to their strength and longevity, zirconia crowns are often preferred for their high biocompatibility. A high level of biocompatibility is key because it means zirconia crowns should avoid adverse health effects that metal crowns and other alternatives could lead to.
How Our Crowns Benefit You
Restored Bite
Even a single damaged tooth can create issues with your bite, which can lead to painful problems such as a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and uneven wear. A zirconia crown can restore balance to your bite.
Improved Oral Health
Damaged or decayed teeth can create further health issues, such as infection and gum disease. They can also put you at an increased risk for problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and more. By treating the issue, you can both restore your oral health and prevent further problems from developing.
Boosted Self-Confidence
Missing and decayed teeth don't just compromise your dental health: they can also take a toll on your self-confidence. Our Washington, DC, dentists can make your smile look complete and healthy again with a dental crown, boosting your self-esteem.
Crowns and Bridges
Are a Powerful Dental Combination
If you are missing one or more teeth, our Washington, DC, practice can replace them with dental bridges anchored by our premium crowns.
Our modern approach to this time-tested solution restores the form, function, and appearance of your smile. While dental implant-supported restorations offer the highest level of support and stability, candidacy is limited. If you need a dependable tooth replacement solution that looks natural and benefits your oral health, but you either do not want or do not qualify for dental implants, we can explore this option with you.
Find Out What Works for You
We can provide a single crown, multiple crowns, bridges, and more. Our team has the experience and skill to listen to your needs and discuss your choices. To find out which of our dentistry options is right for you, simply call (202) 293 5805 or write to our team today.
Washington, DC, Recommends Us
JC R
Washington, DC
2025
I’ve been a patient of Dr. Thornton at Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. for years, and I can’t recommend him enough. He’s a fantastic dentist—skilled, professional, and always takes the time to make you feel comfortable. His staff is equally amazing—friendly, organized, and very knowledgeable when it comes to navigating insurance benefits. It’s no surprise Dr. Thornton was named Top Dentist by Washingtonian in 2021, 2023, and 2025. A truly top-notch dental practice!
Johnathan Trotman
Washington, DC
2025
I've been seeing Dr. VanderLinden for about 2 years now and I always recommend his office to my friends. It's a central location, the receptionists are friendly and are great about confirming appointments and changing them when I need to. Most importantly, they give great cleanings and they helped me squeeze in whitenings in the same appointment which saves a lot of time.
The Dental Crown Process
At Our Washington, DC, Dental Office
Our lifelike zirconia crowns are at least three times stronger than crowns made from porcelain.
1
Consultation and Planning
Everyone has unique dental needs, and your dentist will perform an initial evaluation to determine the right treatment plan for you. Some patients may need a root canal before the dental crown is placed. If you are missing a tooth or require an extraction, a dental crown can be paired with a dental implant to prevent bone deterioration. In cases of extraction or implant placement, healing time will factor into the treatment timeline.
2
Taking Impressions
Impressions are taken to craft your custom crown. Our Washington, DC, dentists also color-match the material to ensure the permanent crown will match your natural teeth. Your impressions will be sent to a dental lab where skilled technicians will craft your crown. Turnaround times vary, but it generally takes about two weeks for your permanent crown to arrive.
3
Prepping the Tooth
Your dentist will reshape the tooth by removing a very small amount of enamel to allow the dental crown to fit properly. A temporary crown will be put in place to protect the exposed tooth while the permanent crown is made. This temporary crown will allow you to eat and speak normally while you wait for your permanent crown to come back from the lab.
4
Placing the Crown
When your permanent crown is completed, you will have an appointment at our office to place it. If you have been wearing a temporary crown, your dentist will remove it to clean the underlying tooth. The permanent crown can be adjusted at this point to ensure comfort and a proper bite.
Request Your Crown Consultation
Now that you understand what crowns can do for you, and why so many people choose our Washington, DC, team for restorations that are equally functional and natural-looking, we invite you to request your consultation. Call (202) 293 5805 or send us a message to book a time to meet with our dentists.
"Highly recommend!"
Why Washington, DC, Recommends Our Practice
Stacey Williams
Washington, DC
2025
I've been a long time patient. Staff and doctors are friendly, professional, and caring. All dental work is done right the first time. Always a positive experience.
Jimmy G
Washington, DC
2025
Really appreciate the professionalism and compassion of the whole team in Dr. T's office.
Alternatives to Dental Crowns
Veneers
For minor cosmetic issues such as cracks, chips, and discoloration, consider veneers. Veneers are thin porcelain shells used to restore the appearance of front teeth. However, they are not used on back teeth.
Dental Bonding
Like veneers, dental bonding is used for minor cosmetic concerns like cracks, chips, and stains. No alterations to the tooth are needed, making this a more conservative treatment than a veneer or crown.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are often used to add strength to a damaged or decayed tooth. They are more conservative than a dental crown and can help preserve the tooth structure while alleviating pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Dental Crowns in Washington, D.C.
Q: What is the difference between a crown and a cap?
A: Dental crowns used to be referred to as caps. However, most dentists today use the term “crown.” There is no difference between a cap and a crown. It is simply a matter of terminology.
Q: Does getting a crown hurt?
A: Our Washington, DC, dentists will ensure that you are comfortable during your treatment. When the tooth is being reshaped, you will be thoroughly numbed using a local anesthetic. It is important to communicate with your dentist during and after treatment. If your crown is causing pain or if you experience any sort of discomfort, please let your dentist know so he can make adjustments.
Q: How long will my crown last?
A: The typical lifespan of a dental crown is around 15 years. The zirconia crowns we offer are much stronger than typical porcelain options, making them more likely to last longer than the porcelain alternative. While a decade and a half is already a great return on your investment, you should know that crowns can last even longer with proper care. Our DC dentists will give you the best suggestions for taking care of your crown, which will include hygiene guidelines and eating tips.
Q: Wouldn't it be cheaper and easier to just have a damaged tooth pulled?
A: Even a single missing tooth can cause the jawbone to recede and can cause other teeth to shift. This can create long-term issues that will require more extensive treatments later. If the tooth is strong enough, it is best to save it. A crown can protect what is left of the tooth, keep the tooth roots in place to prevent jawbone atrophy, and prevent the remaining healthy teeth from shifting.
Q: Can you replace old or metal dental crowns?
A: Yes. The benefit of a zirconia crown over a metal crown is that it looks just like a natural tooth, whereas a metal crown is obvious. Our DC dentists can replace an old, worn, or metal crown with a natural-looking zirconia crown. They can also replace ill-fitting crowns to improve your comfort and oral function.
Q: Can a crown prevent decay?
A: A dental crown can help protect a tooth from further damage and decay. However, you must remain diligent in practicing proper hygiene, as decay can still occur under a dental crown and in other teeth. The tooth roots and gums are also still susceptible to bacteria. By properly brushing and flossing and attending regular dental exams and cleanings, you can help keep your smile healthy for years to come.
Taking Care of Your Crown
We want each of our Washington, DC, patients to get the most out of their investments in our dental care. We will give you personalized recommendations to help your crown last as long as possible. Some common suggestions for maximizing the benefits of dental crowns include:
Don't Use Teeth as Tools
After receiving a dental crown, you should avoid using your teeth to chew on ice, rip open packages, or bite your nails. These actions aren't good for natural teeth, and they can be equally harmful to your dental crown or other restorations.
Maintain Optimal Hygiene
Our crowns provide your teeth with great protection. But that doesn't mean oral hygiene can be neglected. By maintaining a simple routine of brushing twice and flossing at least once each day, you can minimize the risk of cavities and crown failure.
Don't Delay Treatment
If you experience dental health issues after your crown has been placed, don't delay treatment. A decayed tooth can't support a crown long-term, and teeth grinding (bruxism) will eventually damage a crown. Our dentists can provide the treatments needed to protect your oral health and your restorations.
Keep Regular Appointments
Our dentists are here to provide regular cleanings and exams. Attending these checkups allows us to periodically evaluate the state of your teeth and crowns, detect oral health issues in their earliest stages, and address any other potential issues that may appear. If you suspect you are having oral health issues between visits, get in touch with us as soon as possible.