A dental crown restores strength, shape, and natural color to a tooth that is cracked, worn, or weakened. At Unique Dental, your care is led by Mai Nguyen, an experienced dentist known for clear communication and meticulous planning. We combine digital diagnostics, careful material selection, and conservative techniques so your crown looks lifelike, fits precisely, and supports long-term oral health. From first consultation to final polish, you will understand options, timelines, and costs—and leave with a tooth that feels comfortable and functions the way it should.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a custom cap that covers the visible part of a tooth to protect fragile enamel, rebuild chewing surfaces, and improve color and contour. Modern ceramics reflect light like natural enamel, allowing your restored tooth to blend with its neighbors. Crowns can restore a single tooth or be paired with bridges and implants to rebuild your bite.
Who needs a crown?
Crowns are recommended for teeth with large fractures or decay, teeth with extensive fillings, and teeth that have undergone root canal treatment. They also strengthen worn or misshapen teeth and can refine spacing or symmetry. During your visit in Houston, Texas, Mai Nguyen evaluates remaining enamel, bite forces, and habits such as clenching or grinding to tailor a conservative, durable plan.
Materials and options
We offer high-strength ceramic, zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and full metal options. All-ceramic crowns provide lifelike translucency for front teeth. Zirconia delivers exceptional strength for molars and patients who grind. Porcelain-fused-to-metal balances esthetics and durability. We will compare shade, longevity, maintenance, and cost so you can choose confidently.
What to expect
Your appointment includes photographs, shade selection, and digital scans or impressions. The tooth is shaped conservatively to make room for the crown, then a precise model is created for the lab. A smooth, comfortable temporary crown protects the tooth while your custom crown is crafted. At delivery, we check contacts and bite, verify color, and bond the crown securely. Small adjustments ensure smooth chewing and a comfortable feel.
Care and longevity
Brush and floss daily, using a floss threader or water flosser around the margins. Avoid chewing ice or very hard objects. If you clench, a custom nightguard protects your new crown and natural teeth. With routine checkups at Unique Dental, many crowns last 10–15 years or longer while keeping your smile strong and attractive.
Considering a dental crown in Houston, Texas? Call 281-550-0900 or contact us to schedule a consultation with Mai Nguyen. We will answer questions and design a plan that restores comfort, function, and confidence.
Dental Crown FAQs
How long do dental crowns last?
With consistent home care and regular checkups, many crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer. Longevity depends on material, bite forces, diet, and hygiene. If you clench or grind, wearing a custom nightguard can significantly increase lifespan by reducing stress on the ceramic and the cemented seal.
Will my crown match my other teeth?
Yes. We capture detailed shade information, use calibrated photographs, and select materials that mimic enamel. At delivery, Mai Nguyen evaluates color, shape, and light reflection, then makes fine adjustments so the crown blends naturally in photos and everyday conversations. If whitening is planned, we’ll time it before shade selection.
Does getting a crown hurt?
You’ll be thoroughly numbed during preparation, and most patients report only mild soreness afterward. Over-the-counter pain relief usually manages discomfort. Temporary crowns protect the tooth while the final crown is made. Call 281-550-0900 if you experience persistent pain, sharp edges, or bite tenderness so we can adjust promptly.
Is a crown better than a large filling or onlay?
It depends on remaining tooth structure. When a tooth is extensively weakened, a crown that wraps and reinforces the tooth often provides the best long-term protection. If enough healthy enamel remains, a conservative onlay may work. Mai Nguyen will recommend the least invasive option that still offers strength and longevity.