Dental Crowns in Santa Rosa, CA 

When Is a Dental Crown the Right Choice?

A crown covers a damaged tooth to restore its shape, function, and strength. The American Dental Association's MouthHealthy guide to dental crowns notes that crowns may be used for weakened, broken, heavily restored, or otherwise compromised teeth.

A crown may be considered when:

• A tooth has significant damage or decay.
• A large filling has weakened the tooth.
• A tooth is fractured or severely worn.
• A tooth needs protection after root canal treatment.
• Full coverage is needed for functional or aesthetic reasons.

Not every damaged tooth requires a crown. Depending on the remaining tooth structure, an inlay or onlay may be a more conservative option. For more extensive dental concerns, root canal treatment or full-mouth reconstruction may also be considered as part of the overall treatment plan.

Which Crown Option Fits Your Tooth?

The best crown material or fabrication method depends on factors such as the tooth's location, remaining structure, bite, aesthetic goals, and clinical requirements. Your dentist can recommend an option after examining the tooth rather than choosing a material based on appearance alone.

What is the CEREC® System Comprised Of?

A CEREC workflow typically includes scanning, digital design, and manufacturing. An intraoral scanner creates a digital model, CEREC software designs the restoration, and a milling unit produces it. Some workflows may also use a CEREC SpeedFire® furnace for compatible restorations.

CEREC can support same-day dentistry in appropriate cases, but the workflow depends on the tooth and selected material.

Why Might a Procera® Crown Be Necessary?

Procera® is a digital restorative system offering crown and bridge solutions for tooth-supported and implant-related restorations. A Procera®crown may be considered when its design and materials suit the tooth or restoration.

The choice depends on the tooth, functional needs, aesthetics, and overall treatment plan.

What Should You Expect During Crown Treatment?

Your crown treatment will depend on the condition of the tooth, the restoration selected, and whether additional treatment is needed.

Evaluation and Treatment Planning

Your dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding structures to determine whether a crown is appropriate and discuss the recommended material and treatment approach.

Preparing the Tooth

Treatment may involve preparing the tooth and taking a digital scan or impression. Local anesthesia may be used when needed, particularly during tooth preparation.

Creating and Placing the Crown

Traditional crowns may require a separate visit for placement after the restoration is made and evaluated for fit and appearance. Eligible digital restorations may be designed and fabricated during the same visit.

Caring for a Temporary Crown

When a permanent crown is made separately, a temporary restoration may be placed to protect the prepared tooth. Follow the dental team's instructions for eating and caring for it.

Your dentist will explain the expected timeline and steps based on your specific treatment plan.

How Can You Protect Your Crown Long Term?

Good oral care can help protect your crown and the natural tooth underneath. Keep these habits in mind:

• Brush and clean between your teeth regularly to help maintain your oral health.
• Attend recommended dental visits so your crown and surrounding teeth can be monitored.
• Ask about a night guard if your bite or habits may place excess force on the crown.
• Avoid biting hard objects or using your teeth to open packages, which can damage restorations.
• Follow your dentist's care instructions based on your specific crown and oral health needs.

Crown longevity varies based on factors such as the material, tooth location, oral hygiene, and bite forces.

What Do Dental Crowns Cost?

The estimated cost for dental crowns at Stunning Smiles is $1,100–$2,000, depending on the type of restoration and your individual treatment needs. This estimated range includes CEREC® crowns, dental crowns, and Procera® crowns.

Your final cost may vary based on the condition of the tooth, materials selected, and whether additional treatment is needed before the crown is placed. A dental evaluation is necessary to determine the appropriate restoration and provide more specific pricing.

Explore Your Dental Crown Options at Stunning Smiles

Stunning Smiles can evaluate your tooth and help determine whether a crown or another restorative option is appropriate.

Stunning Smiles is located at 2345 4th St Ste A, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, and is open Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 5 PM. The office is closed Friday through Sunday.

Request an appointment today to discuss your tooth, restorative options, and the crown treatment that may be appropriate for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a dental crown be replaced if it becomes worn or damaged?

Yes. A dentist can examine the crown and determine whether it can be repaired or needs to be replaced based on its condition and the health of the tooth underneath.

Can I eat normally after getting a dental crown?

Most patients can return to their usual diet after the crown has been placed and any anesthesia has worn off. Your dentist may provide specific recommendations based on your restoration.

Can a crown change the appearance of my smile?

Yes. A crown can be designed to complement the shape, size, and appearance of surrounding teeth. Your dentist can discuss aesthetic considerations when selecting the restoration.

What happens if a crown becomes loose?

Contact your dentist for an evaluation rather than attempting to reattach the crown yourself. The tooth and restoration should be assessed to determine the appropriate next step.

Can a crowned tooth still develop a cavity?

Yes. The crown itself cannot decay, but the natural tooth around or underneath it can still be affected by decay. Good oral hygiene and regular dental care remain important.