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Dental Crowns in Santa Monica
If you’ve got a tooth that’s chipped, worn down, or just not doing its job anymore, you’re not alone, and you’re not out of options either. Life happens. Biting into something a little too hard, years of grinding, or gradual decay can all take a toll. That’s where dental crowns come in: a reliable fix that protects your tooth and makes it feel and look whole again.
In a place like Santa Monica, where healthy, confident smiles are part of daily life, crowns help people get back to eating, speaking, and smiling without worry.
What’s a Dental Crown?
Think of a crown as a custom-fitted cover that goes over a damaged or worn tooth. It’s not just for looks; it adds strength, protects the tooth beneath, and helps everything function like normal again. Whether your tooth has been weakened by decay, cracked from wear, or treated with a root canal, a crown helps keep it right where it belongs.
Today’s crowns are made from materials that look and feel incredibly natural, like porcelain, ceramic, or blended options that can handle everyday use. Once placed, they’re practically indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth.
Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown
Even if you’re not in pain, there are plenty of reasons a crown could be the next step in protecting your smile:
- There’s too much decay for a filling to do the job
- A cracked tooth needs reinforcement before it worsens
- You’ve had a root canal and want to safeguard the tooth
- Teeth grinding has worn down the biting surface
- You’d like to improve the appearance of a tooth
- You’re getting a bridge and need stable support
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Crowns don’t just patch things up, they solve the problem in a lasting way. Here’s what makes them worth considering:
Preserves your natural tooth
Blends in perfectly
Built for the long haul
Prevents future issues
What the Process Involves
The process of getting a crown typically takes two appointments unless your dental office offers same-day options. Here's a breakdown:
- First Visit – Evaluation and Tooth Prep
Your dentist will examine the tooth, often take an X-ray, and discuss your options. Once a crown is decided on, the tooth is shaped to make space for it. - Creating the Mold
A scan or impression is taken to ensure your crown fits just right. This model is sent to a dental lab to craft your permanent crown. - Temporary Crown
You’ll leave with a temporary crown to protect your tooth while the final one is made. It’s a short-term solution, so steer clear of very sticky or crunchy foods. - Second Visit – Final Crown Placement
Once the crown is ready, your dentist checks the fit, makes adjustments, and bonds it to your tooth. After that, you’re good to go. - Adjusting and Aftercare
It might feel a little odd for a day or two, but your bite will quickly adjust. If anything still feels off, your dentist can easily fine-tune it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Front teeth usually get porcelain or ceramic crowns for a more natural look. For back teeth, which do more of the heavy lifting, metal or porcelain-fused options might be used for added strength.
