When a tooth has lost a significant amount of healthy structure, a crown may be considered when a filling alone cannot provide appropriate restoration. At Advanced Dental Concepts, we provide dental crowns in Laguna Beach, CA, for selected damaged or weakened teeth. We first evaluate the tooth, explain the findings, and discuss whether a crown or any other restorative option is appropriate.
When a Dental Crown May Be Recommended
A dental crown encases the visible portion of a prepared tooth and can restore its shape and function while supporting the remaining tooth structure.
Crowns may be considered for teeth weakened by extensive decay, large existing fillings, or certain cracks. A tooth damaged by trauma may also be considered for a crown when the remaining structure requires additional restorative support. In selected cases, crowns can address significant discoloration or irregular tooth shape when another approach is not appropriate.
Not every damaged, cracked, or discolored tooth requires a crown. Our tooth crown services begin with an evaluation to determine the extent of the concern and whether a more conservative restoration can be considered.
How We Evaluate a Tooth for a Crown
Before recommending a crown, we examine the tooth, surrounding gums, bite, and existing dental work. Dental X-rays may be used when additional information about the tooth, roots, or surrounding structures is needed.
We also assess how much healthy tooth structure remains and whether decay, a fracture, or another condition needs to be addressed. If decay or damage extends to the dental pulp, additional treatment may need to be considered before the final restoration is placed.
These findings help us determine whether the tooth can support a crown and which restorative approach may be appropriate.Â
What Happens During Crown Treatment
When a crown is planned, the tooth is prepared to create room for the restoration and provide an appropriate foundation. Decay or compromised tooth structure is addressed as clinically necessary.
A digital scan records the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth so the restoration can be designed for the treatment area. The crown is designed with the treated tooth, neighboring teeth, and bite in mind.
Before final placement, we assess the crown’s fit and how the teeth come together. Adjustments can be made when needed before the restoration is secured in position. Specific treatment steps can vary according to the condition of the tooth and the restoration being provided.
Caring for a Dental Crown
A crowned tooth still requires regular oral hygiene. Continue brushing and cleaning between your teeth, including around the area where the crown meets the gumline.
Refrain from utilizing your teeth to open packages or bite objects that could place unnecessary force on the restoration. If you grind or clench your teeth, let us know so we can consider how those forces may affect the crown and surrounding teeth.
Crowns can wear, loosen, chip, or develop other problems over time. If you notice discomfort, movement, visible damage, or a change in your bite, schedule an evaluation. The condition of a crown over time can be influenced by the restorative material, biting forces, oral habits, and ongoing dental care.
Dental Crown Care in Laguna Beach
Comprehensive dental services under one roof permit us to assess damaged teeth and recommend appropriate restorative options based on our findings.
Patient comfort is considered throughout your visit. Massage dental chairs, noise-canceling headphones, and individual tablets are available for patients who would like additional comfort or distraction during appointments.
If you are searching for a dental crown near me, our Laguna Beach office welcomes patients from Laguna Village, Woods Cove, North Laguna, and South Laguna.
Discuss Your Dental Crown Options
If you have a cracked, weakened, heavily restored, or otherwise damaged tooth, schedule an evaluation at our Laguna Beach office. We can assess the tooth, explain the findings, and discuss if a crown is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Treatment relies on the location and extent of the crack, the amount of remaining tooth structure, symptoms, and other clinical findings.
A loose or damaged crown should be evaluated to assess both the restoration and the underlying tooth. Depending on the findings, the crown may need to be repaired, recemented, or replaced.
A crown may be considered when a heavily restored tooth requires additional structural support. An examination helps determine whether a crown or another restoration is appropriate.
There is no fixed lifespan for every crown. Longevity varies according to factors such as the restorative material, biting forces, oral habits, oral hygiene, and the condition of the underlying tooth.
