A dental crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. When cemented into place, crowns fully encase the visible portion of a tooth above the gum line, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits.
 

Why Might You Need a Dental Crown?

You may need a dental crown for various reasons, including:

• Protecting a weak or decayed tooth from breaking

• Restoring a broken or severely worn-down tooth

• Supporting a large filling when there isn’t much tooth structure left

• Securing a dental bridge

• Covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth

• Covering a dental implant

• Making cosmetic modifications to improve your smile

• Saving a tooth damaged by decay that can't support a filling

• Protecting the teeth of high-risk children, especially those with difficulty maintaining oral hygiene

Our pediatric dentists may recommend stainless steel crowns for children in need of durable, protective coverage.

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What to Expect When Preparing for a Dental Crown

Preparing a tooth for a crown typically involves two visits to our Bakersfield dental office:

 

First Visit: Examination and Preparation

• Our dentist will take X-rays to assess the roots and surrounding bone.

• If necessary, a root canal may be performed to treat infection or pulp damage.

• The tooth will be numbed with local anesthesia.

• The tooth is then filed down along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown, with the amount removed depending on the crown material.

• If the tooth has extensive decay or damage, a filling material may be used to rebuild it before placing the crown.

• An impression of the prepared tooth is taken using a digital scanner or traditional putty material.

• Impressions of adjacent teeth are also made to ensure the crown will fit properly with your bite.

• The impressions are sent to a trusted dental lab, where your custom crown is fabricated—usually within two to three weeks.

• During this time, a temporary crown made of acrylic is placed over your tooth to protect it.
   

Second Visit: Placement of the Permanent Crown

• The temporary crown is removed.

• The new crown is tried in to check fit and appearance.

• If everything looks good, your tooth will be numb again, and the crown will be permanently cemented in place.

At My Dentist in Bakersfield, we specialize in full porcelain and zirconia crowns, offering durable and natural-looking results tailored to match your smile.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and learn more about dental crowns and how they can help restore your oral health and confidence!