Confused About Crowns? Ask a Dentist in Pearland!

3D Model of a Dental Crown

Have you recently been told at a dental visit that you need a crown but you’re not entirely sure what one is? This is a common scenario! After all, there’s a lot of “dental speak” that’s thrown around each time you go to the dentist, which can be confusing for anyone. Chances are that you’ve had your fair share of simple dental work, such as fillings. But if this is your first time to get a crown, keep reading as a dentist in Pearland explains what this procedure is and what you can expect during the appointment.

Why Do You Need a Crown?

Before explaining what a crown is and why you might need one, it’s helpful to understand the way a tooth functions from a mechanical standpoint. All of your teeth withstand a huge amount of chewing force – many times a day, every single day.

In fact, one study calculated that the average pressure exerted on the back teeth is 171 pounds per square inch. That’s a lot of force!

If a tooth as a large filling in it, it’s automatically much weaker and more fragile than a tooth that has a small filling or none at all. It needs something to hold it together and restore its ability to withstand chewing pressure.

A crown, also called a “cap,” is a tooth-shaped covering that entirely covers a tooth. It’s custom-made to look and feel just like the rest of the teeth.

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, gold, and ceramic. Your dentist will help you determine which material is right for you based on aesthetic goals and other factors.

As you’re probably aware, fillings don’t last forever. When it’s time to replace a large filling, a crown becomes necessary because it offers the strength the tooth needs to function properly.

What Is the Procedure Like?

If you’re getting a dental crown in Pearland, you’re probably wondering what you can expect at the appointment. First, it typically involves two visits. At the first visit, your dentist will start by answering any questions and making sure you’re completely numb.

Next, your tooth will be “prepped,” meaning it will be reduced in size so it can accommodate the crown. Impressions, or molds, will be taken so that the crown will fit perfectly in your mouth, and you’ll go home with a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made. This first visit is usually about an hour and a half.

After 1-2 weeks, you’ll return for a much shorter visit where the temporary crown will be taken off and your new custom-made crown will be permanently cemented into place.

When the procedure is done, you’ll have a beautiful new crown that will look and function just like the rest of your teeth!

About the Authors

Dr. Danny Nguyen and Dr. Cindy Hua are general, cosmetic and restorative dentists who were both raised in Houston and are dedicated to providing their community with outstanding dental care. They love to educate their patients about any treatment they may need so they can have a solid understanding of their oral health. They can be reached for questions through their website, or at (713) 436-5655.