Porcelain or ceramic crowns
Tooth-colored crowns that blend in with natural teeth, often used for front and visible teeth.
Dental crowns in North Texas
When a tooth is cracked, heavily filled or weakened after a root canal, a crown can restore its strength and shape. A crown covers the whole visible part of the tooth like a cap, so you can chew with more confidence. Crowns are also used on top of dental implants to replace a missing tooth.
About Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a prepared tooth. Crowns can be made from porcelain or ceramic, metal, or a combination, and your dentist explains which material fits the tooth's location and your bite.
Reasons you may need a crown
- A large cavity that a filling cannot support
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A tooth treated with a root canal, especially a back tooth
- A worn tooth from grinding
- A misshapen or discolored tooth
- A dental implant that needs a tooth on top
Treatment options
Metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns
Strong options that can suit back teeth that handle heavy chewing.
Implant crowns
A crown attached to a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.
What to expect
- 1
Exam
Your dentist checks the tooth and takes X-rays to confirm that a crown is the right choice.
- 2
Preparation
The tooth is numbed and shaped so the crown can fit over it, and any decay is removed.
- 3
Impression and temporary
An impression or scan is taken and a temporary crown protects the tooth while your crown is made.
- 4
Final crown
Your custom crown is fitted, checked for bite and comfort, and cemented in place.
Benefits
- Protects a weakened tooth from breaking
- Restores chewing strength
- Improves the shape and appearance of the tooth
- Can last many years with good care
Risks and limitations
- Some healthy tooth structure must be removed to fit the crown
- Teeth may be sensitive for a short time after the crown is placed
- Crowns can chip, loosen or need replacement over time
- Decay can still form where the crown meets the tooth, so cleaning along the gumline matters
Recovery and aftercare
- Avoid sticky and very hard foods while you have a temporary crown
- Brush twice a day and floss daily, especially along the edge of the crown
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Call the office if the crown feels high, loose or sensitive for more than a few days
Ask your nearest office
Availability of this service can vary by office. Call the office you plan to visit to confirm.
Frequently asked questions
When is a crown better than a filling?
A crown is usually recommended when a tooth is too damaged or weak for a filling to hold up, such as after a large cavity, a crack or a root canal.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed before it is prepared, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. The tooth may be a little sensitive for a few days afterward.
How long do crowns last?
Many crowns last for years. How long depends on the material, your bite, grinding habits and how well you clean around the crown.
Will my crown look natural?
Tooth-colored crowns are shaded to match your nearby teeth. Your dentist reviews the color and shape with you.
Related services
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy removes infection from inside a tooth so you can keep your natural tooth.
Dental Bridges
A bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth with a fixed, natural-looking replacement.
Dental Implants
Replace one tooth, several teeth or a full arch with implants that look and work like natural teeth.
Dental Fillings
Fillings repair cavities and small chips so a tooth can keep working normally.
Ready to book?
¡Hablamos Español! Spanish-speaking front desk and dental assistants at every office.
¡Hablamos Español!Spanish-speaking front desk & dental assistants