If you have a cracked, heavily filled, or worn tooth, a dental crown can restore its strength, appearance, and function.
At Palani Center for Dental Implants in Rancho Palos Verdes, we offer both traditional and same-day crowns to protect and rebuild damaged teeth.
A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the entire visible part of your tooth, preventing further damage and improving your smile.
Patients in Rancho Palos Verdes, Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, San Pedro, Lomita, and Torrance often choose crowns for long-lasting tooth protection and natural-looking results.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a durable cover that restores a tooth’s natural shape, color, and strength. Unlike fillings, which repair a portion of a tooth, crowns fully encapsulate it for maximum protection.
They are recommended when a tooth is weakened by cracks, large decay, root canal therapy, or severe wear. In cosmetic cases, crowns can also mask deep discoloration or irregular shapes.
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Cracked Tooth Syndrome - Prevents fractures from spreading.
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Root Canal Teeth - Protects teeth that are brittle after treatment.
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Worn or Eroded Teeth - Restores bite height and chewing power.
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Broken Cusps or Large Fillings - Provides full-coverage support.
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Cosmetic Improvement - Covers severe discoloration or misshapen teeth. |
In cases of moderate damage, partial coverage restorations like onlays may be considered, but crowns remain the strongest long-term option.
Crown Materials & Which One’s Right for You
Modern crowns come in different materials, each with its strengths depending on where the crown is placed and your goals:
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Porcelain/Ceramic (e.max) - Highly aesthetic, ideal for front teeth and premolars.
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Zirconia - Very strong and suitable for molars or patients who grind; newer translucent zirconia options look natural.
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Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) - Combines strength with decent aesthetics, though margins may show over time.
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Full Metal - Extremely durable for back teeth, less natural looking.
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Composite/Resin - Used for temporary crowns or short-term restorations. |
Your bite habits, cosmetic needs, and budget all help determine the best crown material. Bruxism patients may also be advised to use a night guard for added protection.
The Crown Procedure—Step by Step
Getting a crown is a straightforward process designed for comfort and precision:
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Exam and diagnostics with X-rays, crack detection, and material discussion.
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Tooth preparation under local anesthesia, sometimes with core build-up.
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Digital scan or impression for custom design.
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Placement of a temporary crown (lab-made case) or same-day CAD/CAM crown.
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Final fitting with bite check and shade match.
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Follow-up visit if needed for comfort adjustments. |
At Palani Center for Dental Implants, we offer same-day CEREC crowns in some cases, reducing the need for multiple appointments.
Cost Factors & Insurance in Rancho Palos Verdes
The cost of a dental crown depends on several factors rather than a set price.
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Material - Zirconia, porcelain, or metal crowns differ in cost.
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Tooth Location - Front vs. molar crowns may vary in complexity.
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Same-Day vs. Lab-Made - Technology and artistry affect pricing.
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Preparation Needs - Core build-up or gum treatment adds steps.
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Insurance Coverage - Many plans cover crowns partially, but coverage varies. |
Our team helps verify your benefits and offers financing options to make treatment manageable.
Aftercare, Sensitivity & Longevity
Most patients experience mild sensitivity for 24–48 hours after crown placement. With proper care, crowns can last 10–15 years or longer.
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Daily Care - Brush and floss normally, paying attention to crown margins.
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Diet - Avoid sticky or hard foods immediately after placement.
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Night Guard - Recommended if you grind your teeth.
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Checkups - Routine visits help maintain gum health around crowns. |
If your crown feels high, becomes loose, or you notice recurring pain, schedule an evaluation promptly.
 Common Problems & Quick Fixes
Occasionally, crown issues arise, but most have simple solutions:
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Temporary Crown Came Off - Use temporary cement and call the office.
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Permanent Crown Feels High - A quick bite adjustment restores comfort.
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Chipped Porcelain - Small chips can be polished; larger ones may need repair.
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Sensitivity - Often resolves but should be checked if persistent. |
Alternatives to Crowns
Not every case requires a crown. Alternatives include:
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Onlays/Inlays - Preserve more enamel while restoring function.
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Large Bonded Fillings - Shorter-term solution when cost is a concern.
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Veneers - Cosmetic coverage for front teeth with minimal damage.
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Dental Implants
- Used when the tooth cannot be saved. |
Who’s a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for crowns have stable gums, good hygiene, and enough healthy tooth structure to support the restoration.
Factors that may influence candidacy include teeth grinding, acid erosion, uncontrolled health conditions, or dry mouth. Children sometimes receive stainless steel crowns on primary molars to preserve function.
Technology & Materials at Our Rancho Palos Verdes Office
At Palani Center for Dental Implants, we use advanced technology for precision crowns:
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Digital Impressions - No messy molds, more accuracy.
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CAD/CAM Same-Day Crowns - In-office milling for faster results.
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High-Quality Ceramics - Lifelike aesthetics and long-term strength.
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Digital X-Rays & Photography - Aid in planning and shade matching. |
Why Choose a Rancho Palos Verdes Dentist for Crowns
Choosing a local dentist means convenience and quality care from a team familiar with complex restorative cases. Patients benefit from:
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Experience - Expertise with cracked, root canal, and cosmetic crowns.
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Local Access - Easy from Palos Verdes Drive, Hawthorne Blvd, and nearby neighborhoods.
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Comfort-Focused Care - Gentle approach with anesthesia and sedation options.
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Transparent Estimates - Clear communication about coverage and costs. |
Patient Resources & What to Bring
To streamline your appointment, bring:
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ID and Insurance Card - If applicable.
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Medication List - For safe planning.
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Prior X-Rays - If available.
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Questions - About materials, process, or coverage. |
Dental Crown FAQs
How Long Do Dental Crowns last?
With good hygiene and regular checkups, dental crowns can last 10–15 years or longer. Bruxism, diet, and oral care habits all affect crown lifespan.
Will My Crown Look Natural?
Yes. Modern porcelain and zirconia crowns are designed to match the color, shape, and translucency of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
Do I Always Need A Crown After A Root Canal?
Not always, but root canal teeth are often more fragile and at higher risk of fracture. A crown is usually recommended for long-term protection.
What If My Tooth Hurts After Getting a Crown?
Mild sensitivity is common, but persistent pain could indicate bite imbalance or other issues. Schedule a checkup if discomfort does not improve.
Can a Crown Get a Cavity?
The crown itself cannot decay, but cavities can form at the edges where it meets the tooth. Good brushing, flossing, and checkups are important.
Are Same-Day Crowns As Good As Lab Crowns?
Yes, same-day CAD/CAM crowns are strong and aesthetic. In some complex cases, lab-made crowns offer more layered customization, but both are effective. |
