Best Dental Crowns in Azle, TX

At Azle Smiles, we provide high-quality dental crowns designed to restore the strength, function, and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. A dental crown, commonly known as a “cap,” resembles a natural tooth and covers the defective tooth to give it a renewed lease on life. Crowns are essential for protecting and strengthening your tooth structure, helping to ensure its longevity.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It acts like a protective “cap” that encases the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Crowns are commonly used to:

• Protect a weak tooth from further damage.
• Restore a broken or fractured tooth to its normal function.
• Improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or misshapen.
• Support a tooth with a large filling or one that has undergone root canal treatment.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are three primary types of crowns, each suited to different needs and preferences:

1. All Porcelain Crowns:

• Description: These crowns are made entirely of porcelain, providing a natural tooth-colored appearance both inside and out. They are frequently used for front teeth due to their aesthetic appeal.
• Advantages: Excellent for cosmetic enhancement, as they closely match the color of natural teeth.
• Considerations: While they offer a beautiful finish, they are less durable compared to other materials and can be more prone to fractures. They are generally not recommended for the back teeth, which experience greater chewing forces.

2. Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (PFM):

• Description: These crowns feature a metal base covered by a layer of porcelain. They combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic qualities of porcelain, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
• Advantages: Strong and durable with a natural-looking exterior. They provide a balance of strength and aesthetics, making them a versatile option.
• Considerations: While the metal interior provides durability, the porcelain exterior can sometimes chip, revealing the metal underneath. This type of crown is typically used where strength and appearance are equally important.

3. Gold Crowns:

• Description: Gold crowns are made entirely of gold or a gold alloy, known for their exceptional strength and durability.
• Advantages: Highly durable and resistant to wear and fracture, making them ideal for back teeth that endure significant chewing pressure. They are also a good choice for patients who grind or clench their teeth.
• Considerations: Although gold crowns offer the best durability, they are less aesthetic compared to porcelain or PFM crowns and are often chosen for teeth that are not visible.

Reasons for Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are used for various reasons, including:

• Broken or Fractured Teeth: To restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged.
• Cosmetic Enhancement: To improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or has an irregular shape.
• Decayed Teeth: To cover and protect a tooth that has extensive decay that cannot be repaired with a filling alone.
• Fractured Fillings: To replace large or compromised fillings that are no longer effective.
• Large Fillings: To provide additional support to a tooth with a significant filling.
• Root Canal Treatment: To protect and strengthen a tooth that has undergone a root canal procedure.

The Crown Procedure

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits:

• First Visit: During the initial visit, the dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. An impression of your tooth will be taken to create a custom crown that fits perfectly. A temporary crown may be placed to protect your tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
• Second Visit: Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to have it fitted and cemented in place. The dentist will ensure the crown fits comfortably and makes any necessary adjustments before permanently bonding it to your tooth.

Caring for Your Dental Crowns

To ensure the longevity of your dental crowns, follow these care instructions:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your crowns and surrounding teeth clean.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious with hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage or dislodge your crowns.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit Azle Smiles for regular exams and cleanings to monitor the condition of your crowns and overall oral health.
• Address Issues Promptly: If you experience any discomfort or notice issues with your crown, contact us promptly to prevent further damage.

At Azle Smiles, we are committed to providing the best dental crowns in Azle, TX. Whether you need a crown to restore a damaged tooth or enhance your smile, our expert team is here to help you achieve optimal dental health and a beautiful, functional smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your crown options.