Altrock Fabb Dental | San Diego, CA
If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, you may be wondering what that means and how it will affect your smile, comfort, and budget. Dental crowns are one of the most versatile and common restorative solutions used in modern dentistry. Whether you’re dealing with a weakened tooth, a large cavity, or looking to enhance the esthetics of your smile, crowns play a critical role in long-term oral health.
At Altrock Fabb Dental, we provide high-quality dental crowns in Pacific Beach, CA, using the latest materials and technologies. Let’s take a closer look at what dental crowns are, why they may be recommended, and how they can help restore your smile.
What Are Dental Crowns and Why Are They Necessary?
A dental crown is essentially a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged, weakened, or unattractive tooth. It fully encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are necessary when a tooth cannot be restored with a simple filling or when additional support and protection are needed.
There are many reasons your dentist in Pacific Beach may recommend a dental crown. For example, if your tooth has undergone root canal therapy, it becomes more brittle and prone to fracture. A crown offers reinforcement and long-term stability. Similarly, teeth that are cracked, broken, or severely worn down from grinding can be saved with the support of a crown. In cosmetic cases, a crown may be used to improve the color, shape, or alignment of a tooth, especially if other methods such as bonding or veneers are not sufficient.
Crowns are also used in dental implant restorations, anchoring bridges, or replacing large, failing fillings. They play a crucial role in both functional and esthetic dentistry, offering a comprehensive solution to a range of oral health challenges.
Exploring Different Types of Dental Crowns
Not all crowns are created equal. Depending on your specific needs, your dentist will help determine the most suitable type of crown. Each material offers unique advantages in terms of durability, appearance, and cost.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
These crowns combine the strength of a metal substructure with the natural look of porcelain on the outside. PFM crowns have been widely used for decades and provide a good balance between esthetics and function. However, over time, the metal edge may become visible near the gumline, particularly if the gums recede.
All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns
If your main concern is appearance, especially for front teeth, all-ceramic crowns offer the most natural look. They are translucent and closely mimic the color and light-reflecting qualities of natural enamel. These crowns are metal-free, making them ideal for patients with metal sensitivities or those seeking superior esthetics.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia has become increasingly popular due to its exceptional strength and biocompatibility. It can withstand heavy biting forces, making it a great option for back teeth. Zirconia crowns can also be layered with porcelain to improve their appearance, offering both durability and a lifelike finish.
Gold Crowns
While not as common today, gold crowns are still valued for their longevity and the way they interact with surrounding teeth. Gold is gentle on opposing teeth and resistant to chipping, making it a good option for molars. That said, they are not typically chosen for visible teeth due to their color.
Same-Day Crowns (CEREC or CAD/CAM)
With advanced digital technology, some dental clinics now offer same-day crowns using computer-aided design and milling machines. These crowns are often made of ceramic or composite material and allow patients to receive their final restoration in a single visit. While convenient, they may not always offer the same customization as lab-made crowns, depending on the case.
At Altrock Fabb Dental, we work closely with patients to choose the ideal crown type based on location in the mouth, functional demands, esthetic goals, and budget.
The Benefits of Choosing Dental Crowns for Your Oral Health
Dental crowns do more than just repair damaged teeth—they also prevent further complications and preserve your natural smile. One of the greatest advantages of crowns is their ability to strengthen compromised teeth. When a tooth is fractured or structurally weakened, a crown provides full-coverage protection that distributes bite forces evenly, reducing the risk of further damage.
Crowns also help maintain proper bite alignment and jaw function. When a tooth is lost or significantly worn down, adjacent teeth can shift, leading to issues like TMJ pain, bite imbalance, or uneven tooth wear. A crown helps preserve that space and maintain proper spacing between teeth.
Esthetically, crowns offer a significant boost. For teeth that are severely stained, misshapen, or chipped, a crown can recreate a natural and beautiful appearance. Modern materials are carefully color-matched to your surrounding teeth, resulting in a seamless blend.
Crowns are also long-lasting with proper care. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, a well-made crown can last 10 to 15 years or longer. They provide both peace of mind and an excellent return on your dental investment.
Understanding the Cost Factors Involved in Dental Crowns
The cost of a dental crown can vary widely depending on several factors. On average, patients can expect to pay anywhere from $900 to $2,500 per crown. Understanding the elements that contribute to the cost can help you make informed decisions about your care.
Material Choice
As discussed earlier, different materials carry different costs. All-porcelain or zirconia crowns tend to be more expensive than metal or PFM crowns due to their esthetic advantages and lab costs.
Laboratory vs. Same-Day Production
Lab-fabricated crowns often involve multiple appointments and are custom-crafted by skilled technicians, which adds to the cost. In contrast, same-day crowns may be more affordable due to the streamlined in-office process, though the materials used may not be appropriate for every case.
Location in the Mouth
Posterior teeth, such as molars, may require stronger materials due to higher bite pressure, while anterior crowns may prioritize esthetics. This affects both the material choice and price.
Extent of Preparation and Additional Procedures
If a tooth requires a core build-up, post, or root canal therapy before placing the crown, those procedures will increase the overall treatment cost. Some insurance plans will cover part of the crown procedure, but coverage varies, so it’s essential to check with your provider.
Geographic Location and Provider Expertise
Costs may also vary based on where the practice is located. For example, dental crowns in Pacific Beach, CA may differ in price from those in other areas of San Diego due to local market factors. The experience and reputation of your dental provider also play a role, as higher-quality practices may charge more to reflect their expertise and the use of advanced technology.
At our dental clinic in Pacific Beach, we are transparent about pricing and offer options to fit your budget. We’ll also work with your insurance provider and provide financing solutions if needed.
What to Expect During the Dental Crown Procedure
Receiving a dental crown is typically a multi-step process, although some modern practices offer same-day crown placement. Here’s a general overview of what to expect at Altrock Fabb Dental.
Initial Consultation and Examination
First, your dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding area, take X-rays, and assess whether a crown is the best option. If there’s significant decay or damage, additional treatment such as a root canal may be required before the crown is placed.
Tooth Preparation
During the preparation visit, the tooth is shaped and reduced in size to make room for the crown. If necessary, a filling material may be used to build up the tooth structure. Impressions are then taken, either using traditional materials or digital scanners, to create a model of your bite.
Temporary Crown Placement
A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth while the permanent one is being fabricated. This crown is usually made of acrylic or composite resin and is designed to last a few weeks.
Final Crown Placement
Once your custom crown is ready, you’ll return for placement. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown, check the fit and color of the permanent one, and make any necessary adjustments. The crown is then cemented securely in place. Your bite will be evaluated to ensure comfort and balance.
Post-Treatment Care
You may experience slight sensitivity or mild soreness after the crown is placed, but this typically resolves quickly. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits will keep your crown and surrounding teeth in great shape. Avoid chewing hard objects like ice or pens, as this can damage the crown over time.
Trust Altrock Fabb Dental for Dental Crowns in Pacific Beach, CA
Dental crowns are a powerful tool in restorative and esthetic dentistry, helping patients maintain healthy, confident smiles. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, cosmetic concern, or post-root canal restoration, crowns offer reliable protection and long-term results.
At Altrock Fabb Dental, our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care using top-quality materials and state-of-the-art techniques. If you’re exploring options for dental crowns in Pacific Beach, CA, we’re here to guide you every step of the way from consultation to smile transformation.
Call our dental clinic in Pacific Beach to schedule your appointment and discover how dental crowns can restore both your oral health and your confidence.