Modern dentistry is focused on preserving natural teeth, restoring comfort, and supporting long-term oral health. Dental crowns play an important role in that process. In many cases, a crown is a proactive step—one that restores strength, improves function, and helps patients feel confident in their smile again.
For patients in and around Sugar Land, TX, Dr. India Gibson at Bella Smiles Cosmetic and Family Dentistry approaches dental crowns with careful planning, clear communication, and an emphasis on long-term stability. When recommended at the right time and designed properly, a crown can look natural, feel comfortable, and protect your tooth for years.
This guide is designed to help you understand dental crowns, when they’re recommended, and what the treatment process looks like. It is for general educational purposes and does not replace a comprehensive dental exam. Dr. Gibson provides personalized recommendations only after evaluating your tooth in person.
At Bella Smiles Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, Dr. Gibson explains a dental crown as a custom-made restoration that fully covers and reinforces a tooth that has been weakened or compromised.
A crown restores:
It also helps the tooth blend naturally with the rest of your smile. The goal is to stabilize the tooth, protect it from further damage, and allow you to chew comfortably and confidently.
Dr. Gibson always considers conservative treatment options first. A dental crown may be recommended when it offers the best long-term protection for the tooth, including situations such as:
During your visit, Dr. Gibson will review digital X-rays and intraoral images with you, explain her findings clearly, and discuss whether a filling, onlay, or crown is the most appropriate solution.
Not all crowns are the same. Dr. Gibson selects crown materials based on the tooth’s location, your bite, your aesthetic goals, and long-term durability needs.
Porcelain crowns are commonly recommended for front teeth because they closely resemble natural enamel in color and translucency.
They are an excellent option when appearance is a top priority and you want your restoration to blend seamlessly into your smile.
Zirconia crowns are known for exceptional strength and durability. Dr. Gibson often recommends them for molars and premolars, where chewing forces are highest.
Patients who clench or grind their teeth, or who have fractured restorations in the past, may benefit from zirconia crowns for long-term protection.
Ceramic crowns are metal-free and offer a balance of strength and aesthetics. They are well-suited for visible teeth and for patients who prefer metal-free restorations.
You don’t need to choose a crown material on your own. Dr. Gibson helps guide the decision by evaluating:
She explains suitable options, reviews the benefits of each, and helps you make a confident, informed decision.
Crown Type |
Common Use |
Typical Area |
Strength |
Aesthetics |
Typical Lifespan* |
Porcelain |
Cosmetic restorations |
Front teeth |
★★★☆☆ |
★★★★★ |
10–15 years |
Zirconia |
Heavy chewing forces |
Back teeth |
★★★★★ |
★★★★☆ |
15+ years |
Ceramic |
Metal-free option |
Front & premolars |
★★★★☆ |
★★★★☆ |
10–15 years |
Many patients are surprised by how smooth and manageable the crown process feels. At Bella Smiles Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, comfort and clarity are prioritized at every step.
Dr. Gibson listens to your concerns and uses digital X-rays and photos to evaluate the tooth. She explains her findings and reviews all appropriate treatment options.
Once the area is comfortably numbed, the tooth is gently shaped so the crown can fit securely and naturally.
A precise impression or digital scan is taken to ensure your crown fits your bite and smile accurately.
A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is created by the dental lab.
At the follow-up visit, Dr. Gibson checks the fit, bite, and appearance of your crown before permanently securing it. Most patients adjust quickly, and the crown soon feels like a natural part of their smile.
With good oral hygiene and routine dental care, most crowns last between 10 and 15 years, and many last longer. Zirconia crowns, in particular, can provide excellent longevity for back teeth.
Dr. Gibson reviews bite alignment, grinding habits, and other factors so you know what to expect from your specific restoration.
Tips to help your crown last longer:
At Bella Smiles Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, dental crowns typically range from $1,100 to $1,800 per tooth, depending on:
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost when a crown is medically necessary. The team reviews benefits in advance and explains estimated out-of-pocket costs clearly.
Bella Smiles Cosmetic and Family Dentistry is located in Sugar Land, TX, and welcomes patients from:
Patients often mention Dr. Gibson’s calm explanations and unhurried approach, which help them feel informed and confident about treatment decisions.
Patients choose Dr. Gibson because she:
Her approach centers on trust, comfort, and lasting oral health.
Dr. Gibson reviews your images with you and explains whether a crown or a more conservative option is best for long-term protection.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used, and comfort is monitored throughout treatment.
Typically two visits over one to two weeks, depending on the dental lab.
Yes. Color, shape, and bite are carefully matched for a natural appearance.
Contact the office promptly so the tooth can be protected.
If you’re experiencing tooth damage, sensitivity, or concerns about long-term tooth strength, a dental crown may be an effective solution. Schedule a consultation with Dr. India Gibson at Bella Smiles Cosmetic and Family Dentistry to receive clear guidance, personalized recommendations, and care designed around your comfort and smile goals.