If you have a tooth that’s cracked, weakened, or badly decayed, your dentist may recommend a dental crown to restore strength, function, and appearance. For many Huntington Beach residents, crowns are a reliable way to protect a damaged tooth while keeping a natural-looking smile.
If you’ve never had a crown before, you might wonder what the procedure involves and how long it takes. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to the process so you’ll know exactly what to expect from start to finish.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over the entire visible portion of a tooth. Crowns are used to:
- Strengthen teeth weakened by large fillings or decay
- Restore teeth after a root canal
- Repair broken or cracked teeth
- Improve the shape, size, or color of a tooth for cosmetic reasons
- Anchor a dental bridge
Crowns are typically made of porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials—your dentist will recommend the best option based on your needs and preferences.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Exam
Your journey starts with a comprehensive dental exam. At Beachside Dental Group, we’ll evaluate:
- The overall health of your tooth and gums
- The extent of damage or decay
- Your bite and surrounding teeth
Digital X-rays or 3D imaging may be taken to plan the most precise treatment. If the tooth has extensive decay or infection, a root canal or other preliminary treatment may be recommended before placing the crown.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
Once your dentist determines that a crown is the right solution, the next visit focuses on preparing the tooth:
- Numbing the area: Local anesthesia ensures you stay comfortable.
- Shaping the tooth: The dentist carefully removes a thin layer of enamel to create space for the crown.
- Addressing decay or old fillings: Any decay is removed, and old fillings are replaced if needed to ensure a stable base.
This step creates the ideal shape for the crown to fit securely and naturally.
Step 3: Impression or Digital Scan
To design a perfectly fitting crown, your dentist will capture the exact shape of your prepared tooth. Depending on the technology available, this may involve:
- Traditional impressions using a putty-like material, or
- Digital scanning with an intraoral camera for a quick, comfortable experience.
The impression or scan is sent to a dental lab where skilled technicians create your custom crown to match the color and contour of your surrounding teeth.
Step 4: Temporary Crown Placement
Because it takes a week or two for the permanent crown to be fabricated, you’ll receive a temporary crown. This protects the prepared tooth and allows you to chew normally while you wait.
- Avoid very sticky or hard foods that could dislodge the temporary crown.
- Brush and floss carefully, sliding floss out to the side rather than pulling up.
Your dentist will give you specific instructions for caring for the temporary crown.
Step 5: Fitting and Cementing the Permanent Crown
At your next appointment, usually 1–2 weeks later, the permanent crown is ready:
- Removing the temporary crown and cleaning the tooth.
- Checking the fit and bite: The dentist ensures the crown feels comfortable and matches your natural teeth in color and shape.
- Bonding the crown: Once the fit is perfect, a strong dental cement is used to permanently secure the crown in place.
You can usually eat and drink normally once the anesthesia wears off.
Step 6: Aftercare and Maintenance
Dental crowns are durable, but proper care will help them last 10–15 years or more:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily, paying extra attention around the crown’s edges where plaque can accumulate.
- Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods that might crack the crown.
- Visit your Huntington Beach dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams.
How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
From consultation to final placement, the traditional crown process typically spans two visits over 1–3 weeks. However, some practices offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology, which can complete the entire procedure in a single appointment. Ask your dentist whether this option is available and appropriate for your case.
Dental Crowns and Your Huntington Beach Lifestyle
Whether you’re surfing at the pier, attending local events at Pacific City, or enjoying a night out downtown, a strong, natural-looking crown allows you to smile confidently. A properly placed crown not only restores function but also blends seamlessly with your surrounding teeth—so no one will know you’ve had dental work.
Schedule Your Crown Consultation
If you suspect you need a dental crown—or simply want to learn more about your options—Beachside Dental Group is here to help. Our team combines advanced technology with a gentle touch to create crowns that look beautiful and feel completely natural.
Call (714) 842-6151 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation. We’ll evaluate your needs and create a personalized treatment plan so you can enjoy a healthy, confident smile.