A dental crown is a custom-made restoration designed to cover a damaged, weakened or aesthetically compromised tooth. By encasing the entire visible portion of a tooth, a crown restores its strength, function and appearance. Dr. Olagoke Masha and Dr. Jennifer Ogbuehi often recommend crowns for teeth that have suffered extensive decay, fractures or wear that cannot be repaired with a simple filling. Crowns are also used in conjunction with dental implants and bridges to replace missing teeth.
At True Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we focus on providing high-quality crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Whether you need to restore a single tooth or multiple teeth, a well-placed crown can help preserve your oral health and improve the aesthetics of your smile.
When Are Dental Crowns Needed?
Dental crowns serve both functional and cosmetic purposes, making them a versatile treatment for various dental concerns. Our dentists may recommend a crown if you have:
- Severe tooth decay that cannot be treated with a standard filling.
- A cracked or fractured tooth that requires reinforcement to prevent further damage.
- A root canal-treated tooth, which often becomes brittle and needs protection.
- A large filling with minimal natural tooth structure remaining.
- A misshapen or discolored tooth that affects your smile’s aesthetics.
- A dental implant, which needs a crown to serve as the replacement tooth.
- A dental bridge, which relies on crowns to anchor and support the prosthetic tooth.
By addressing these issues, a dental crown helps restore not only the appearance of your teeth but also their function, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns come in several materials, each with its own advantages. The most commonly used materials include:
- Porcelain crowns: These are highly popular for their ability to mimic the natural color and translucency of real teeth. They are ideal for restoring front teeth where aesthetics are a priority.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: These combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. They are durable but may show a dark line at the gumline over time.
- Zirconia crowns: Known for their exceptional strength, zirconia crowns are often used for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces. They also offer a tooth-colored appearance.
- Gold crowns: Although less common for visible teeth, gold crowns are extremely durable and are sometimes recommended for molars due to their longevity and strength.
What to Expect During the Dental Crown Process
Receiving a dental crown typically requires two visits to our office.
- First Appointment – Tooth Preparation: Our dentists will shape the affected tooth to accommodate the crown, removing any decay or damaged structure. Impressions are then taken to ensure a precise fit. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being fabricated.
- Second Appointment – Final Crown Placement: Once the custom crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent one is bonded into place. The dentist will make necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and natural bite.
With proper care, a dental crown can last 10 to 15 years or longer, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring your tooth.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Maintaining a dental crown is similar to caring for natural teeth. Good oral hygiene and routine dental visits help ensure the longevity of your restoration. Consider the following care tips:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss around the crown to remove plaque and prevent gum disease.
- Avoid chewing excessively hard foods, such as ice or hard candy, which can damage the crown.
- Visit our dentists for regular checkups to monitor the health of your crown and surrounding teeth.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your crown in optimal condition for years to come.
Schedule Your Consultation
For more information about dental crowns in Houston, Texas, and to schedule your personal consultation with our experienced dentists, please reach out to our team at 281-666-9912 today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How do I know if I need a dental crown?
A dental crown may be necessary if you have a tooth that is severely decayed, cracked or weakened. If a filling is not enough to restore the tooth’s structure, a crown can provide additional strength and protection. Crowns are also used after root canal treatment, to anchor a dental bridge or to restore a dental implant. Our dentists will evaluate your tooth and determine whether a crown is the best option for your oral health needs.
Can dental crowns really improve the appearance of my teeth?
Yes, dental crowns can enhance the aesthetics of your smile by covering discolored, misshapen or damaged teeth. They are custom-made to match the shape, size and color of your natural teeth, creating a seamless and natural-looking appearance. Whether you need a crown for functional reasons or cosmetic improvements, it can significantly enhance the overall look of your smile.
What can I expect during the dental crown procedure?
The dental crown process typically requires two visits. During the first visit, our dentists will prepare your tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to accommodate the crown. Impressions are taken to create a custom crown, and a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth. At the second visit, the final crown is securely bonded to your tooth, ensuring a precise fit and a natural appearance. The entire process is designed to restore your tooth’s function and aesthetics efficiently.
How long do dental crowns last, and how can I ensure their longevity?
Dental crowns generally last between 10 to 15 years, but with proper care, they can last even longer. To extend the life of your crown, practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, avoid chewing hard objects like ice or hard candy, and visit our dentists and team regularly for checkups. If you grind your teeth at night, a night guard may be recommended to protect your crown from excessive wear.
Is getting a dental crown a painful process?
The dental crown procedure is not typically painful. Local anesthesia is used during tooth preparation to ensure comfort. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or soreness after the procedure, but this is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. If discomfort persists, our dentists can make adjustments to ensure a proper fit and bite.
What areas do you serve?
Dr. Masha and Dr. Ogbuehi offer dental crowns in Houston, Texas, and to patients in the surrounding areas, including Missouri City, Stafford and Sugar Land, Texas. Contact our office today for more information and to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists.
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