Dental Crowns in Houston
Learn how dental crowns restore damaged teeth, who may be a good candidate, and when other treatment may be needed at Kwin Dental in Houston.
A dental crown is a custom-made covering placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns may be recommended for teeth with large fillings, cracks, severe wear, decay, or after root canal treatment. Whether a crown is appropriate depends on how much healthy tooth remains, the condition of the gums and supporting bone, and your overall oral health. A dental examination is needed to determine the best treatment.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering that fits over the visible portion of a natural tooth.
You can think of a crown like a protective cap. It covers a tooth that has become weakened, damaged, or heavily restored and helps the tooth function more normally again.
Dental crowns are made to match the general shape and size of your natural teeth. Depending on the material used, they can also be designed to closely match the color of nearby teeth.
Crowns may be made from materials such as:
- Porcelain
- Ceramic
- Zirconia
- Metal alloys
- Porcelain fused to metal
- A combination of materials
The type of crown recommended can depend on where the tooth is located, how much biting pressure it receives, appearance concerns, and the condition of the tooth.
Why Would Someone Need a Dental Crown?
A dentist may recommend a crown when a tooth needs more protection than a filling alone can provide.
Common reasons include:
- A tooth has a very large filling
- A significant part of the tooth has broken
- The tooth is cracked or weakened
- There is extensive tooth decay
- The tooth has become severely worn down
- A root canal has weakened the tooth
- A dental implant needs an artificial tooth attached to it
- A tooth needs improvement in shape or appearance
- A dental bridge needs support from nearby teeth
The goal of a crown is usually to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible while making it strong enough for everyday chewing.
Can a Crown Save a Damaged Tooth?
In many cases, a crown can help protect a tooth that might otherwise continue to break down.
However, a crown cannot save every tooth.
The tooth must usually have enough healthy structure and support remaining underneath the crown. If decay or a crack extends too far below the gumline, or if the tooth has severe infection or bone loss, another treatment may be more appropriate.
Your dentist will examine the tooth and may take X-rays before deciding whether it can be restored with a crown.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Dental Crown?
You may be a good candidate for a dental crown if you have a tooth that is You may be a good candidate for a dental crown if you have a damaged or weakened tooth that can still be restored.
Possible candidates include people who have:
- A cracked or fractured tooth
- A large cavity
- A large or damaged filling
- A tooth weakened by previous dental work
- A tooth that has had root canal treatment
- Severe tooth wear from grinding
- A misshapen or discolored tooth
- A dental implant needing its final crown
Healthy gums and good oral hygiene can also help support the long-term success of a crown.
Who May Not Be a Good Candidate for a Dental Crown?
Some teeth may need additional treatment or evaluation before a crown can be placed.
This may include teeth with:
- Severe decay below the gumline
- A deep crack or fracture
- Significant gum disease or bone loss
- An active dental infection
- Too little healthy tooth structure remaining
- Poor oral hygiene
- Severe uncontrolled teeth grinding
- Damage that cannot be predictably restored
This does not always mean a crown is impossible. Treatment for decay, infection, gum disease, or other dental problems may make a crown possible later.ptions such as a dental implant, bridge, or removable partial denture.
What Happens During a Dental Crown Procedure?
The exact process can vary, but dental crowns commonly require several steps.
Examination
Your dentist first examines the tooth and surrounding gums.
Dental X-rays may be taken to look for decay, infection, bone loss, or problems involving the tooth root.
Preparing the Tooth
The tooth is reshaped so the crown can fit securely over it.
Any damaged or decayed areas are removed. If a large amount of tooth structure is missing, the dentist may need to rebuild part of the tooth before placing the crown.
Local anesthetic is commonly used to numb the treatment area.
Taking an Impression or Digital Scan
An impression or digital scan records the shape of your tooth and surrounding teeth.
This information is used to create a crown that fits your bite.
Temporary Crown
If the permanent crown is being made at a dental laboratory, a temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth while you wait.
Temporary crowns are not as strong as permanent crowns, so patients may be advised to avoid very hard or sticky foods.
Placing the Permanent Crown
Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist checks:
- The fit
- Your bite
- The shape
- The appearance
Adjustments can be made when needed.
The crown is then attached to the tooth using dental cement.
Dental Crowns at Kwin Dental in Houston
Dental crowns can help restore teeth that have become damaged, weakened, or heavily repaired while allowing patients to keep their natural tooth whenever possible.
The right treatment depends on the condition of the tooth, gums, supporting bone, and your individual dental needs.
At Kwin Dental in Houston, we can examine the tooth, discuss your treatment options, and help determine whether a crown or another restoration may be appropriate.
Call Kwin Dental at 281-564-8100 to schedule an appointment and find out whether a dental crown may be right for you.
If you have a damaged, cracked, or weakened tooth, call Kwin Dental at 281-564-8100 to schedule a dental crown evaluation. Our team can examine your tooth and discuss whether a dental crown or another restorative treatment may be right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Getting a Crown Hurt?
The area is typically numbed with local anesthetic during treatment. You may feel some pressure, and mild sensitivity or soreness can occur afterward. Contact your dentist if discomfort becomes severe or your bite feels uneven.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can last for many years, but their lifespan depends on oral hygiene, crown material, teeth grinding, diet, and the condition of the tooth underneath. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits can help your crown last longer.
Can a Crown Get a Cavity?
The crown itself cannot develop a cavity, but the natural tooth underneath it can. Decay can form near the edge of the crown, so brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups remain important.
What Should I Avoid With a Dental Crown?
Avoid habits that could crack or damage the crown, such as chewing ice, biting hard candy, biting your nails, chewing pens, or using your teeth to open packages. A nightguard may be recommended if you grind or clench your teeth.
What Is the Difference Between a Crown and a Filling?
A filling repairs a smaller damaged area of a tooth, while a crown covers most or all of the visible tooth. Crowns are often recommended when a tooth has lost more of its natural structure and needs additional support.
What Is the Difference Between a Crown and a Veneer?
A veneer is a thin covering placed mainly over the front of a tooth, often to improve its appearance. A crown covers much more of the tooth and can improve both its appearance and strength.
Are Dental Crowns Used With Dental Implants?
Yes. A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth, and a crown can be attached to the implant after it has healed. The crown acts as the visible replacement tooth.
How Do I Know If I Need a Crown?
You may need a crown if you have a broken or cracked tooth, a large filling, significant decay, pain when biting, a weakened tooth, or a tooth that has had root canal treatment. A dental examination is needed to determine whether a crown is the right treatment.
