In dentistry, crowns are dental implants used to cover or cap a damaged or decayed tooth. They are custom-made to resemble the shape, size and color of the natural tooth, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits.



Crowns are designed to encase the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, restoring its strength, appearance and functionality.

Crowns have significantly evolved over the years in terms of durability and aesthetic appeal. If your dentist recommends you get crowns, they’ll likely recommend one of the following options:

• Porcelain: Porcelain crowns are a great option for patients with allergies. They’re also popular for their ability to mimic the natural appearance of teeth.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal: These crowns are more durable than their porcelain counterparts, delivering a combination of strength and aesthetic appeal.
• Ceramic: Most commonly used, ceramic crowns are highly aesthetic and offer excellent natural-looking results. They are made from a translucent material that reflects light in a manner similar to natural teeth, providing a lifelike appearance.
• Stainless steel: These are generally used as a temporary solution. For instance, if a tooth has undergone significant preparation, such as reshaping or removal of decay, a temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth from further damage, sensitivity or infection. 

There are many reasons why you may need a crown or crowns. If your dentist recommends one, it’s best to have the procedure done sooner rather than later.



A crown may be the right solution (permanent or temporary) for you if:

• Your tooth has a large cavity that cannot be adequately restored with a filling
• You have undergone a root canal treatment and need to protect and strengthen the treated tooth
• Your tooth is cracked or fractured
• You have a misshapen or severely discolored tooth that affects your smile
• You are missing a tooth and need a crown as part of a dental bridge
• You have a weakened tooth structure due to extensive dental work or trauma
• You experience tooth sensitivity and need a crown to cover and protect the exposed tooth surface

The crown replacement procedure is quick, convenient and pain-free. While each procedure is unique to the patient, you can generally expect your dentist to follow these steps:

1.     Tooth preparation: Your dentist will begin by preparing the tooth. This involves removing a portion of the outer tooth structure to create space for the crown. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

2.     Impression taking: After tooth preparation, your dentist will take impressions of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth. These impressions serve as a mold for creating a custom-made crown that fits properly and comfortably.

3.     Temporary crown placement: While your permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory (which may take a few weeks), your dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown helps protect the tooth, maintain aesthetics and restore functionality while you wait for the permanent crown.

4.     Permanent crown placement: Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist's office for its placement. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and carefully check the fit and aesthetics of the permanent crown. Adjustments may be made as necessary.

5.     Cementation: Once the fit is verified, your dentist will use dental cement to permanently bond the crown onto the prepared tooth. The crown is carefully positioned and secured in place. Any excess cement is removed and your bite is checked to ensure proper alignment.

6.     Post-placement care and instructions: Your dentist will provide you with post-placement instructions on how to care for your new crown. This typically includes proper oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing as well as recommendations on diet and potentially problematic habits or issues (like grinding your teeth in your sleep).

A dental bridge, also known as a fixed prosthesis, is a way to replace missing teeth. A bridge can be placed when there are healthy and stable teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth.



It’s essentially a crown that is custom made to fit and cover the healthy teeth as well as support a false tooth or teeth in between, forming a single solid piece that accurately mimics the appearance of normal, healthy teeth.

There are several types of dental bridges available, and the choice depends on the specific needs and circumstances of each patient.

• Traditional dental bridge: This is the most common type of dental bridge. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are held in place by dental crowns placed on the natural teeth adjacent to the gap. The crowns are cemented onto the prepared teeth, and the pontics fill the space of the missing teeth.
• Cantilever dental bridge: A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it is supported by only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap, rather than both sides. This type of bridge is used when there is only one healthy tooth available next to the gap.
• Maryland dental bridge: Also known as a resin-bonded bridge or a Maryland bridge, this type of bridge consists of artificial teeth with metal or porcelain wings on either side. The wings are bonded to the back of the adjacent natural teeth using a resin cement. 

There are many reasons why your dentist may recommend a dental bridge. Most commonly, it’s to replace one or several missing teeth. By filling those gaps, dental bridges restore the natural shape of your face, improving the aesthetics of your smile and enhancing your self-confidence.



From a more practical standpoint, dental bridge restores proper biting and chewing functions, allowing you to enjoy a wider range of foods and speak with confidence.

The lifespan of a crown or dental bridge can vary depending on various factors, including the type of material used, oral hygiene practices, your normal biting force and overall oral health. On average, dental crowns and bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more with proper care.

Dental patients can increase the longevity of their crown or dental bridge by regularly brushing and flossing, which helps prevent plaque buildup and protects the underlying tooth structure.



Additionally, remember to schedule regular dental check-ups to allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown or bridge and address any potential issues before they escalate. 

Dental crowns and bridges are one of the many dental services offered at St. Hope Healthcare in Houston.



Whether you’re looking to enhance your smile or get a cleaning, be sure to schedule your appointment at one of our six locations in and around Houston.