Understanding the Dental Crown Procedure and Other Restoration Options

A dental crown procedure is a common solution for restoring damaged or weak teeth. A crown is a cap that fits over a tooth to bring back its shape, strength, and appearance. It’s often used after a root canal or when a tooth has a large filling that can’t hold on its own.

There are different types of crowns depending on where the tooth is located. For front teeth, also called anterior teeth, dentists usually recommend all-ceramic or porcelain crowns. These blend well with your natural teeth and are more visually pleasing.

If you’re missing a tooth entirely, a crown can be part of a larger dental restoration like a bridge. A dental bridge is used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It connects to the teeth on either side and includes a false tooth in the middle, often supported by crowns.

For people mainly focused on how their smile looks, dental veneers might be a better choice. Veneers are thin shells placed on the front of the teeth — especially helpful for stained, chipped, or slightly uneven teeth. They don’t cover the whole tooth like crowns but are great for cosmetic fixes.

In every case — whether it’s a crown, veneer, or bridge — your dentist will look at the condition of your teeth and recommend the right option. These treatments improve both how your teeth look and how well they work.

If you’re having trouble with a damaged or missing tooth, don’t wait. Talk to your dentist to see which dental restoration option fits best for your situation and your budget.