Dental crowns, also known as caps, are custom-made prosthetic restorations that encase a damaged, weakened, or aesthetically compromised tooth, restoring its strength, shape, size, and appearance. These tooth-shaped caps are typically crafted from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials, and they are cemented onto the prepared tooth structure by the dentist in Houston, Texas.

Dental crowns serve various purposes, including protecting a tooth following root canal therapy, strengthening a tooth that has extensive decay or damage, being attached to a dental implant, anchoring a dental bridge, or enhancing the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth. They provide long-lasting support and functionality while seamlessly blending with the natural teeth, enabling patients to enjoy improved oral health, restored dental function, and a confident smile. 

The Purposes of Dental Crowns 

• Dental crowns in Houston, Texas, are commonly used to restore teeth that have undergone significant decay, fracture, or trauma. By encasing the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, crowns provide structural support and prevent further damage, allowing the tooth to function normally. 

• Teeth weakened by large fillings, root canal treatment, or extensive enamel erosion are at risk of fracture or collapse. Dental crowns provide a protective shield, strengthening weakened teeth and reducing the likelihood of fractures or breakage. 

• Dental crowns serve as abutments for dental bridges, which replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Crowns are placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap, providing stability and support for the bridge structure. 

• Dental implants are artificial tooth roots used to support dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. Crowns are attached to the implants via abutments, creating a lifelike replacement for missing teeth that restores function and aesthetics. Contact us today! 

• Dental crowns can enhance the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or poorly positioned teeth, creating a more harmonious and attractive smile. Porcelain and ceramic crowns closely mimic teeth's natural color and translucency, providing a seamless and lifelike result. 

Types of Dental Crowns 

Porcelain Crowns 

Porcelain crowns are prized for their natural appearance and translucency. They closely resemble the color and texture of natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for restoring front teeth and highly visible areas of the smile. 

Metal Crowns 

Metal crowns, typically made from gold alloy or base metal alloys, are renowned for their strength and durability. While they are less aesthetic than porcelain crowns, metal crowns are ideal for restoring teeth subjected to heavy biting forces. 

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns 

PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They feature a metal substructure covered with porcelain, providing both durability and natural-looking aesthetics. 

All-Ceramic Crowns 

All-ceramic crowns are crafted entirely from porcelain or ceramic materials, exhibiting exceptional aesthetics and biocompatibility. They are ideal for patients with metal allergies or those seeking the most natural-looking restoration. 

The Dental Crown Procedure

First Visit 

Consultation and Examination 

The process begins with a consultation with our dentist at Oral Family Dental. Our dentist will examine the affected tooth or teeth during this appointment and discuss your treatment options. If a dental crown is recommended, our dentist will explain the procedure in detail and address any questions or concerns you may have. 

Preparation of the Tooth 

Before the crown can be placed, the affected tooth must be prepared. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth's surface to create space for the crown. In cases of extensive damage or decay, additional tooth structures may need to be removed to ensure a proper fit for the crown. 

Impressions 

Once the tooth is prepared, impressions (molds) of the tooth and surrounding teeth are taken. These impressions are used as the basis for creating a custom-fitted crown that will blend seamlessly with your natural dentition. Our dentist may also take digital scans of your teeth using intraoral scanners for precise measurements. 

Temporary Crown Placement 

While the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the tooth and maintains aesthetics and function while the permanent crown is being made. It's essential to be gentle with the temporary crown and avoid chewing sticky or hard foods that may dislodge it. 

Second Visit 

Removal of Temporary Crown 

During your second visit, the temporary crown is carefully removed to make way for the permanent crown. 

Fit and Adjustment 

Before the permanent crown is cemented, our dentist will ensure it fits properly and aligns correctly with your bite. Adjustments may be made to the crown's shape, size, and color to achieve optimal aesthetics and functionality. 

Cementing 

Once the fit and appearance of the crown are satisfactory, our dentist will permanently cement the crown onto the prepared tooth using dental adhesive. The crown is carefully positioned and secured, ensuring a durable and long-lasting restoration. 

Final Polishing 

After the crown is cemented, our dentist will polish it to remove excess cement and create a smooth, natural-looking surface. This final polishing enhances the crown's aesthetics and ensures a comfortable fit against the surrounding teeth. 

Maintenance and Care 

• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing regularly to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. 

• Avoid biting down on hard objects or using teeth as tools to prevent damage to the crown. 

• Attend regular dental checkups and cleanings to monitor the crown's and surrounding teeth's health. 

Whether used to strengthen weakened teeth, improve aesthetics, or support dental prosthetics, crowns are pivotal in preserving oral health and restoring patient confidence. Visit Oral Family Dental at 8800 Long Point Rd Suite A, Houston, Texas 77055, or call (713) 984-2723 to learn more about how dental crowns can enhance the health and appearance of your teeth.