Dental Crown FAQ

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown, also known as a "dental cap", is a restoration that encases the tooth in order to a) strengthen a decayed tooth, b) repair a broken tooth, or c) improve the cosmetic appearance of the tooth.

For more information about our offices services, please refer to our information page about crowns, or call our offices at 888.790.0309.

What is the difference between a filling and a dental crown?

Whereas a filling covers only a portion of the tooth, a dental crown completely encases the visible area of the tooth, creating a brand new outer surface for your tooth.

What does the dental crown procedure consist of?

If you and your dentist determine that a dental crown is the best option, your dentist will first shape your tooth to a minimal thickness and then take an impression of your tooth, which your dentist will send to the lab to make your permanent dental crown. In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary dental crown over your tooth, and will determine what shade your dental crown will be in order to best match the shade of your teeth.

When your dental crown is ready, you will return back to the office for your second visit. Your dentist will remove the temporary dental crown and then cement the permanent dental crown to your tooth.

Is it possible for my dental crown to pop off?

Although unlikely, occasionally a dental crown will pop off, in which case the crown must be replaced immediately, due to tooth sensitivity and aesthetic appearance. In the case that this happens, please call your dentist immediately.

Will my dental crown look and feel natural?

A porcelain dental crown looks and feels exactly like a real tooth, so nobody, including you, should be able to tell the difference. If anything, your new dental crown will enhance the look of your smile.

In closing, a dental crown is a procedure done very often in our offices for a variety of reasons. A dental crown may be the best option for a tooth that has had such significant decay that a filling may not be an adequate means to strengthen the tooth. A dental crown is also a good choice for a tooth that has chipped or broken and must be restored. Finally, with the advent of cosmetic dentistry, one or more dental crowns may be placed over your teeth in order to improve the overal aesthetic appearance of your smile. If you would like to consult one of our dentists about the possibility of a receiving a dental crown, please call our offices at 888.790.0309. We look forward to hearing from you!

Cosmetic Dentistry is a specialized field that requires extensive knowledge and experience to be done correctly. The Medical Center Dental Group in Houston, Texas brings all of that and more to the direct benefit of each and every patient we treat. Although we are located in the world famous Houston Medical Center at Scurlock Towers, we routinely see dental patients who travel from Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, Beaumont and Midland Texas to see Dr. Dale Brant, Dr. Charles Campbell or Dr. Elizabeth OSullivan-Winslow for their cosmetic denistry services. 

For any other questions related to cosmetic dentistry, you can Contact Us at 713.795.5905, visit our Dental Blog or Ask the Dentist.