Restorative Dentistry
Dental Crowns
Procedure Description
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits completely over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its strength, function, and appearance. The dentist carefully prepares your tooth and takes precise impressions. In traditional crown procedures, cord packing or lasers are used to obtain accurate impressions, though these methods can sometimes cause irreversible damage to the gum line. Cord packing involves placing a string around the gum line to push it down, a process mainly used for PFM (porcelain-fused-to-metal) crowns to hide the metal ring beneath the gum line. In some instances, these techniques can invade the biological width, causing red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Once impressions are taken, a permanent crown is crafted from high-quality materials that match your natural teeth perfectly. Modern zirconia crowns offer significant advantages, as they can be placed equigingival (at the gum line) without requiring these invasive techniques, providing beautiful cosmetic results while preserving gum health. Crowns protect and strengthen teeth while providing a beautiful, natural-looking result.
Indications
Dental crowns are a versatile restorative solution ideal for protecting and rebuilding compromised teeth. This treatment is recommended when you have:
When to Consider Dental Crowns
Severely Decayed Teeth
Restores teeth with extensive decay that cannot be adequately repaired with a filling alone.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
Provides full coverage and protection to prevent further damage and restore strength.
Root Canal Treatment
Protects and reinforces teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, which can become brittle.
Large Existing Fillings
Strengthens teeth with large fillings where there isn't enough natural tooth structure remaining.
Cosmetic Enhancement
Improves the appearance of severely discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth.
Note: For minor damage or cosmetic concerns affecting less than 30% of the tooth, dental bonding or porcelain veneers may be more appropriate alternatives.
Benefits
Why Choose Dental Crowns?
Long-Lasting Durability
With proper care, dental crowns can last 15-30 years, making them one of the most durable restorative options.
Natural Appearance
Modern crowns are custom-matched to your natural tooth color and shaped to blend seamlessly with your smile.
Full Protection
Crowns completely encase the tooth, protecting it from further damage, decay, and sensitivity.
Restored Function
Regain complete biting and chewing capability with confidence and comfort.
Advanced Biocompatible Materials
We prioritize modern zirconia crowns over traditional PFM crowns. Zirconia offers superior strength with a thicker porcelain layer that resists chipping, can be placed at the gum line without invasive cord packing, and provides exceptional aesthetics while preserving your gum health.
Alternatives
Dental Bonding
Suitable for minor chips and cosmetic issues affecting less than 30% of the tooth
Porcelain Veneers
Thin shells for front teeth when damage is primarily cosmetic
Inlays/Onlays
Partial coverage restorations for moderate damage that doesn't require a full crown
Dental Implants
Complete tooth replacement if the tooth cannot be saved
Authored By
Dr. Ovsepyan
Frequently Asked Questions
Locations Offering Dental Crowns
Available at all Prime Dental locations throughout Los Angeles County
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