Dental crowns are often the best solution for restoring a damaged or severely decayed tooth. Longview Family Dental provides custom-made crowns that restore your tooth to its original size, strength, and appearance.
Restorative dentistry in Longview, TX, focuses on preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. Our team ensures that every crown blends seamlessly with your smile while improving overall oral function.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown (or “cap”) is a permanent restoration designed to cover the entire visible portion of a damaged tooth. The restoration mimics the natural tooth in color, shape, and size.
Structural support is the primary benefit of a crown. The cap strengthens weakened enamel, preventing fractures and shielding the tooth from further decay or damage.
What Can Dental Crowns Treat?
Dental crowns treat a variety of structural and cosmetic dental issues. Our dentist may recommend a crown for the following reasons:
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Restoring Damaged Teeth: Extensive decay or fractures are repaired to prevent tooth loss.
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Supporting Large Fillings: Teeth with significant structure removal need crowns to remain stable and functional.
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Protecting After Root Canals: Root canal therapy leaves teeth brittle; a crown strengthens them against chewing forces.
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Covering Dental Implants: A crown serves as the visible replacement tooth attached to a single dental implant.
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Securing Dental Bridges: Crowns on adjacent natural teeth act as anchors to hold a bridge in place.
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Cosmetic Enhancement: Severely discolored or misshapen teeth are covered to improve the smile’s aesthetics.
Types of Dental Crowns Available
The right type of crown depends on the location of the tooth and your specific bite requirements. Longview Family Dental offers several durable material options:
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Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia is known for extreme durability and resistance to chipping, making it suitable for both front and back teeth.
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All-Ceramic Crowns: Ceramic materials provide the most natural look, making them the top choice for highly visible front teeth.
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Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): PFM crowns combine the strength of a metal core with the aesthetics of a porcelain overlay.
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Metal Crowns: Gold or alloy crowns offer unmatched durability for molars but are less aesthetically pleasing due to their color.
The Dental Crown Procedure in Longview, TX
The dental crown procedure typically requires two visits to our Longview office over a few weeks. Dental bridge treatment also typically requires two or more visits to complete. The process ensures a precise and proper fit for a long-lasting result.
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Preparation and Impressions: Local anesthetic is used to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues, ensuring patient comfort during tooth preparation. The dentist removes decay and shapes the tooth enamel to accommodate the restoration. Digital impressions are taken to create a model for the dental lab.
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Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary cap is placed to protect your tooth while the custom crown is fabricated. The lab uses this time to match the shade and shape perfectly. For bridges, a temporary dental bridge is inserted to protect the supporting teeth and the space between them until the permanent bridge is ready.
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Final Placement: The permanent crown is checked for proper fit and bite alignment during your second visit. The crown is then cemented onto the tooth for a secure and long-lasting result.
Recovering From the Procedure
Recovery involves managing minor sensitivity for a few days after placement. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to handle any discomfort.
Dietary adjustments help protect the new restoration initially. Hard or sticky foods should be avoided for the first 24–48 hours to prevent dislodging the crown. Oral hygiene remains critical, brushing and flossing daily ensures the gum tissue around the crown stays healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about dental crowns often involve longevity and care. The answers below clarify what to expect from your treatment.
Can a dental crown get cavities?
The crown itself cannot develop cavities because it is artificial. The natural tooth underneath, however, is still susceptible to decay at the gum line if plaque accumulates.
Will my crowned tooth be sensitive?
Temporary sensitivity is common immediately after the procedure, especially to hot or cold temperatures. This sensation typically subsides within a few weeks as the tooth adapts.
How do I know if I need a crown or a veneer?
The difference lies in the coverage and purpose. A crown covers the entire tooth to provide structural support for damage. A veneer covers only the front surface and is primarily for cosmetic improvements.
Can a dental crown change the shape of my tooth?
Yes, a dental crown can significantly alter the shape, size, and alignment of a tooth. Custom fabrication allows the dentist to correct misshapen or small teeth for a better cosmetic result.
How long does a crown last compared to a filling?
Dental crowns typically last 10–15 years or longer due to their comprehensive coverage. Fillings usually last 5–10 years and are more prone to wear because they do not reinforce the entire tooth structure.
Restore Your Smile Today
Damaged teeth do not have to compromise your smile or your health. Longview Family Dental is ready to restore your confidence with high-quality dental crowns.
Contact us at 903-759-0765 to schedule your consultation. Book your appointment online to visit our convenient Longview, TX location.