Dental crowns are a popular choice for protecting and replacing missing or damaged teeth. Whether it’s the finishing touch for a dental implant or a standalone treatment for worn, cracked, weak, or discolored teeth, the team of experienced family dentists at West Brazos Dental Center in West Columbia, Texas, can help.

Dental Crowns Q & A

What are dental crowns?

A dental crown, also known as a “cap,” fits over a damaged tooth. Crowns can strengthen teeth, protect them from further damage, and restore their function. They’re an effective restoration for teeth that:

Are in danger of fracturing

Underwent a root canal

Have fillings that need to be replaced

Are damaged or discolored

Are old replacements in need of an upgrade

Your dentist at West Brazos Dental Center has crowns custom made so they blend in with your natural teeth. Crowns are also designed to match the shape of the original tooth. The cap fits over your original tooth, completely covering up the visible, damaged portion, and is bonded in place with dental cement.

When are crowns necessary?

Your dentist at West Brazos Dental Center may recommend crowns for a number of reasons. They’re the final step of a dental implant and a necessary part of supporting a dental bridge. They may also be a standalone restoration to cover a discolored, damaged, or misshapen tooth.

Crowns can improve the appearance of teeth, but they’re more than just cosmetic. If your tooth is too damaged for a filling to restore its function, a crown can hold it together and allow you to use the tooth. A crown can also protect teeth that are vulnerable to serious damage, including teeth with large fillings and little natural enamel remaining.

Depending on your needs and preferences, West Brazos Dental Center offers crowns made of metal, resin, and porcelain, which can provide durability, affordability, and a natural look.

How are dental crowns placed?

The first step of getting a dental crown is for your dentist to take X-rays of the tooth that needs restoration. Your dentist then alters your tooth to accommodate the crown. Depending on the condition of your tooth, this involves either filing it down so a crown can fit easily on top or adding a foundation to support a crown.

Your dentist then takes an impression of your teeth to send to a dental lab, which creates your crown. While you wait, you wear a temporary crown to protect the tooth. When your permanent crown is ready, 2-3 weeks later, your dentist fits it to your tooth and bonds it using dental cement.

To learn more about dental crowns, schedule an appointment at West Brazos Dental Center.