A strong, healthy smile plays a vital role in both function and confidence. However, when a tooth becomes weak, damaged, or aesthetically unappealing, dental crowns offer one of the best solutions for restoring its strength and beauty. Whether you’ve suffered from tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or want a long-lasting cosmetic improvement, dental crowns provide durability, protection, and a seamless look.

At Coastal Implant & Advanced Dentistry in Corpus Christi, we specialize in high-quality dental crowns that blend naturally with your teeth while restoring optimal function. If you’ve been considering a dental crown or want to learn more about how it works, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this popular restorative treatment.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap designed to cover a tooth that is weak, damaged, or cosmetically flawed. Custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, a crown restores both the function and appearance of the tooth. Crowns are often recommended when a filling or other restorative method isn’t sufficient to save the tooth.

When Might You Need a Dental Crown?

There are several reasons why a dentist may recommend a crown, including:

• To Protect a Weakened Tooth – If your tooth is at risk of breaking due to trauma or extensive decay, a crown reinforces its structure and prevents further damage.
• Following a Root Canal Treatment – Root canal therapy saves a decayed or infected tooth, but since the tooth structure becomes fragile afterward, a crown is placed to protect it.
• For Large Cavities – If a cavity is too large to be repaired with a standard filling, a crown offers better coverage and strength.
• To Restore a Cracked or Fractured Tooth – When a tooth is cracked or chipped, a crown helps restore it to its original form and prevents further deterioration.
• To Support a Dental Bridge – Crowns are used as anchors for dental bridges, helping to replace missing teeth and maintain bite alignment.
• For Cosmetic Enhancement – A dental crown is an effective way to improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored, misshapen, or uneven. Many patients seeking services from cosmetic dentists in Corpus Christi opt for crowns as part of a complete smile makeover.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are various types of crowns available, each offering distinct benefits depending on a patient’s needs and aesthetic goals:

• Porcelain Crowns – Designed to match the natural color of teeth, porcelain crowns are the preferred choice for front teeth due to their lifelike appearance.
• Ceramic Crowns – Made from high-quality materials, ceramic crowns provide durability and aesthetics, making them a popular option for patients looking for natural-looking results.
• Zirconia Crowns – These crowns are known for their incredible strength and resistance to wear, making them ideal for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns – Offering a combination of strength and aesthetics, PFM crowns have a metal core for durability and a porcelain outer layer for a natural look.

When you visit Coastal Implant & Advanced Dentistry, our team will discuss the best crown options based on your specific dental needs and long-term goals.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

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

First Visit: Tooth Preparation & Temporary Crown

1. The dentist will numb the area to ensure a comfortable experience.
2. The tooth will be reshaped to create space for the crown.
3. Impressions will be taken to ensure a custom fit.
4. A temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated.

Second Visit: Permanent Crown Placement

1. The temporary crown is removed.
2. The permanent crown is tested for fit, bite alignment, and aesthetics.
3. Once approved, the crown is cemented into place for long-lasting durability.

Some dental offices offer same-day crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology, which allows patients to receive their permanent crowns in just one visit.



How to Care for Your Dental Crown

To extend the lifespan of your dental crown, follow these care tips:

• Brush and floss daily to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Schedule regular checkups with a cosmetic dentist in Corpus Christi to monitor the condition of your crown.
• Avoid chewing on hard foods or ice to prevent potential damage.
• Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth to protect the crown from excessive pressure.

With proper care, a high-quality dental crown can last 10–15 years or longer.