Dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are custom-made coverings that encase a damaged or weakened tooth. They are designed to restore the strength, shape, size, and appearance of a tooth while providing protection against further damage or decay.
Made from various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloy, or a combination of these materials, dental crowns are created to mimic the natural color and texture of your existing teeth. This ensures a seamless blend with your smile for an aesthetically pleasing result.
Reasons for Needing a Dental Crown
There are several reasons why you may need a dental crown.
Damaged Tooth
One common reason for needing a dental crown is if you have a tooth that has been severely damaged or weakened due to decay, trauma, or extensive dental work. In these cases, a dental crown can provide strength and protection to the affected tooth.
Large Filling
Another reason for needing a dental crown is if you have a large filling that needs replacement. Over time, fillings can wear down or become loose, making your tooth vulnerable to further damage. A dental crown can cover and protect the entire tooth, ensuring its longevity.
Root Canal Therapy
If you have undergone root canal therapy, a dental crown may be necessary to restore the strength and appearance of the treated tooth. Root canal treatment involves removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth and sealing it off. However, this procedure weakens the tooth structure, which makes it prone to fractures without proper reinforcement from a crown.
Cosmetic Reasons
Having misshapen or discolored teeth can affect your self-confidence when smiling or talking. Dental crowns can help improve the appearance of such teeth by covering them entirely.
Tooth Replacement
If you're missing one or more teeth and are considering getting implants or bridges as replacement options, in many cases, crowns will be used to provide stability and durability.
The Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown in Webster, TX
The process of getting a dental crown is typically completed in two visits to our dental office. During the first visit, the dentist will examine your tooth and determine if a crown is necessary. They may take X-rays or scans of your mouth to get a better idea of what needs to be done. Next, the dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay and shaping it so that it can accommodate the crown. This may involve filing down parts of the tooth or building up its structure with filling material.
Once the tooth is prepared, an impression will be made. This impression will serve as a mold for creating your custom-made dental crown. While you wait for your permanent crown to be created in a dental laboratory, you'll wear a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth.
During your second visit, which usually takes place within two weeks, the temporary crown is removed and replaced with the permanent one. The dentist will check its fit and make any necessary adjustments before cementing it into place.
Getting a dental crown involves careful planning and precise execution by both you and the dentist. By choosing this procedure, you can restore strength and functionality to damaged teeth while achieving an aesthetically pleasing smile.
Crown your smile with confidence! Transform and strengthen your teeth with dental crowns. Call us at (281) 324-8583 to schedule your consultation at Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry and explore personalized solutions for a resilient, natural-looking smile. Elevate your dental experience by visiting us at 20814 Gulf Freeway #40, Webster, TX 77598.