Whether you need to replace or get a new cap, Coastal Dental Care can create a custom dental crown in Nederland, TX that looks and feels like a natural tooth. A dental crown is a useful and necessary restorative dentistry treatment our dentists use to restore our patients’ oral health. Our dental care team places dental crowns when necessary to support your long-term dental health or as part of a larger cosmetic or restorative treatment plan.
A dental crown is a cap-like restoration that encases and covers a damaged or weakened tooth. We can create your tooth crown from porcelain, metal, or both materials. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of natural teeth. This restoration restores the tooth’s strength, size, and appearance. We offer traditional dental crowns as well as same-day porcelain crowns.
The Uses of Dental Crowns
While dental crowns are most often used for restorative purposes, dentists also use them for cosmetic reasons. They are a versatile treatment for various dental issues, contributing to teeth’s structural integrity and cosmetic enhancement. A tooth crown will protect, strengthen, and improve the appearance of a tooth.
Repairing Damaged Teeth
One of the most common reasons people need dental crowns is to repair damaged teeth. If a tooth is cracked, broken, or severely worn down, a crown can protect it from further damage. When a tooth becomes weak or fractured, it is more likely to break when you chew. A crown covers the entire tooth, holding it together and preventing further cracks or breaks. This is especially important for back teeth, which are used for grinding food and are under more pressure.
Restoring Teeth After a Root Canal
A root canal is a procedure that treats infections in a tooth’s pulp. After a root canal, the tooth becomes weaker because the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, is removed. Without this support, the tooth can become brittle and crack or break. We often place a dental crown over the tooth after a root canal to protect the tooth and restore its function. The crown helps the tooth remain strong and usable for biting and chewing.
Improving the Appearance of a Tooth
Dental crowns are also used to improve the appearance of a tooth. If a tooth is discolored, misshapen, or has large fillings, a crown can make it look more natural. Crowns can be made from materials like porcelain or ceramic, which can be closely matched to the color of your natural teeth. This makes crowns a great option for people who want to fix cosmetic dental problems and achieve a more uniform smile.
Supporting a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a solution for replacing missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth attached to natural teeth on either side of the gap. These natural teeth need to be prepared to support the bridge, and crowns are often placed on them. The crowns hold the bridge in place, ensuring it stays secure and functions like natural teeth. This is an important use of crowns because they help replace missing teeth and restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
Strengthening Weak Teeth
Some people have teeth that are naturally weak or have become weak due to large cavities or fillings. A weak tooth is more likely to crack or break, which can cause pain and lead to further dental problems. We can place a dental crown on the tooth to prevent these issues and reinforce its structure. The crown strengthens the tooth, helping it withstand chewing pressure and preventing it from breaking. This is especially important for molars, which handle a lot of the force when chewing food.
Fixing Broken or Worn-Down Teeth
Teeth can become worn over time due to aging, grinding, or habits like chewing on ice or using teeth as tools. This can lead to teeth becoming shorter or flatter. When a tooth is significantly worn down, a crown can be used to restore its shape and function. Crowns fit perfectly over the worn-down tooth, giving it a natural appearance and restoring its ability to chew food properly.
Preventing Further Damage
In some cases, dental crowns serve as a preventive measure. If a tooth has a large filling or has been treated for decay, a crown can protect it from further damage. Without a crown, a tooth with a large filling may be more prone to cracking or breaking over time. The crown is a protective cover, preventing additional wear and tear and preserving the tooth for longer.
Preventing Tooth Loss
If a tooth is severely decayed or damaged, it may be at risk of loss. Instead of extracting the tooth, a dental crown can save it by restoring its strength and appearance. By placing a crown on a damaged tooth, we prevent the need for an extraction and help you keep your natural tooth. This is an important use of crowns because preserving natural teeth is always the best option.
Dental Crowns: What to Expect
Placing a traditional dental crown requires 2-3 office visits. At the first appointment, your dentist will evaluate your needs, take digital diagnostics as needed, and review your treatment plan with you. Our helpful staff will answer all your questions and file your dental insurance claim.
At your next visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth for a dental crown. We will numb the area around the tooth for your comfort. Then, your dentist will shape the tooth by removing enough structure for stable placement. Your dentist will place a temporary crown on the tooth so you can function normally until the final crown is ready.
During your next visit, we will place your custom dental crown. After making last-minute adjustments for fit and comfort, we will polish the surface for a natural look and feel. Your new crown will feel and function like your natural teeth. Good daily oral hygiene and routine dental care will support a lasting result.
CEREC: Same-Day Dental Crowns in Nederland, TX
We are pleased to offer CEREC technology in our office. Thanks to this state-of-the-art CAD-CAM equipment, we can fabricate most porcelain crowns in our office using 3-D scans instead of intraoral impressions. It also allows us to place your new dental crown on the same day, so you don’t have to wear a temporary crown for weeks. This makes the experience of getting a new crown faster and more comfortable. 
The process is similar to getting a traditional crown but faster. You will still require a consultation and diagnostics. You will leave with your permanent dental crown at your appointment instead of a temporary one.
The first step is to numb the area around the tooth. Your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing much of the tooth structure. Once your tooth is ready, they will take digital impressions of the tooth using a special scanning wand. This will produce digital images we can use to design and fabricate a custom ceramic dental crown while you wait. This advanced software, CAD/CAM design, allows us to create a precise crown that will fit seamlessly in your mouth.
We will begin the milling process once we are happy with the design. The final design is sent to the milling machine, which will carve out your dental crown from a block of high-quality ceramic materials. Once complete, our dental care team will place the new crown and make adjustments where needed to fit comfortably and allow for a natural bite.
The Benefits of Same-Day Dental Crowns
Coastal Dental Care is proud to offer same-day dental crowns. These custom-made dental restorations offer our patients many advantages. Continue reading to learn more about these benefits:
- Digital impressions: Less discomfort and more accurate diagnostics for treatment planning.
- 3-D imagery: The ability to see and use multi-dimensional images of your mouth enables your dentist to design a crown more precisely.
- Quality materials: CEREC technology can create high-quality porcelain dental crowns that are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and comfortable.
- Same-day restorations: We can design, fabricate, and place your crown during one visit, eliminating the need for a return visit and a temporary tooth crown.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most pressing frequently asked questions surrounding crowns.
Can I eat normally with a toothbrush?
A dental crown allows you to eat normally. We design crowns to restore the strength and function of a damaged tooth. Moreover, crowns allow you to chew and bite like a natural tooth. However, it’s best to avoid very hard or sticky foods. Also, be gentle with the crown right after we place it. This will let the cement fully harden.
How much of a tooth needs to be available for a crown?
A crown usually requires at least 2 millimeters of healthy tooth structure above the gum line. This provides enough surface for the crown to grip securely. It also allows the dentist to shape the tooth and create a stable base for the crown. If a large part of the tooth is missing, we might suggest a post and core buildup. The goal is to create a stable foundation for your new crown.
Is a crown on a tooth permanent?
A tooth crown is a long-term solution, but it’s not permanent. Crowns usually last 10-15 years with good oral care. Some may even last 25-30 years. Regular dental exams help maintain your crown’s longevity. Eventually, wear or changes in your mouth might require replacement. While not permanent, crowns provide long-lasting restoration for damaged teeth.
Will my crown look natural?
Modern dental crowns look incredibly natural. We match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth. Most people can’t distinguish between a crown and a natural tooth. Porcelain crowns especially mimic the clearness of real enamel. Your dentist will ensure the crown blends with your smile.
Will a crown affect my speech?
A well-fitted crown shouldn’t affect your speech. Initially, you might notice a slight difference as you adjust. This usually lasts only a day or two. If you experience persistent speech issues, let your dentist know. They can make adjustments to ensure proper fit and function. Most patients find that their speech returns to normal quickly after getting a crown.
Can a dental crown fall out?
Yes, a dental crown can fall out. This might happen due to decay under the crown, damage to the tooth structure, or the adhesive wearing off. If your crown falls out, keep it safe and see your dentist immediately. They’ll check the underlying tooth and reattach or replace the crown if necessary.
Schedule an Appointment for a Dental Crown in Nederland, TX
Schedule a dentist appointment today with Coastal Dental Care for a dental crown in Nederland, TX. You can reach us by calling 409-215-2035 or you can request an appointment online.