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What Is a Dental Crown and What Is It Used For?

A dental crown, sometimes called a cap, is a custom-made covering that fits over the entire visible surface of a damaged or weakened tooth, from the gumline up. Once cemented in place, the crown restores the tooth's original shape, size, and function while protecting it from further damage.

Crowns are one of the most versatile restorations in dentistry. They're used in a wide range of situations and are designed to be durable and long-lasting, typically 10–15 years or more with proper care.

Common reasons a crown may be needed:
  • Large or Deep Cavity When a cavity is too large to be treated with a filling alone, a crown provides the coverage and structural support the remaining tooth needs.
  • Cracked or Fractured Tooth A crown holds a cracked tooth together, preventing the crack from deepening and protecting the inner pulp from bacteria and infection.
  • Tooth Weakened by Root Canal Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are more brittle and prone to fracture. A crown placed over the tooth after the procedure protects it and restores full function.
  • Broken or Severely Worn Tooth Teeth that are broken down or significantly worn from grinding may not have enough structure left for a filling, a crown rebuilds the tooth completely.
  • Existing Crown That Needs Replacement Crowns don't last forever. An old crown that is cracked, loose, worn, or no longer fitting properly needs to be replaced to protect the underlying tooth.
  • Anchor for a Dental Bridge Crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of a gap to anchor a dental bridge in place.

What Happens During the Dental Crown Process

Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits. Here's what to expect at each stage:
Visit One — Preparation & Temporary Crown


CONSULT

This is the first step in the full arch process. During this appointment, you will meet with your Dr. Kurt O. Bally DMD FICOI to discuss your needs and options for dental implants. The consultation will typically take about an hour. This first and free visit is $525 value.
STEP 1
STEP 2

RECORDS

Your dentist will take a series of records, including dental x-rays, 3D scans, and photographs. These records will be used to create a treatment plan and to fabricate your dental implants.

PRE-SURGICAL CONSULT

This appointment is held before the surgery to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure, as well as the recovery process. You will also have a chance to ask any questions you may have.
STEP 3
STEP 4

SURGERY

This is the procedure where the implants are placed into your jawbone. The surgery typically takes about 2 hours per jaw and is done safely with oral anesthesia. All patients leave with their new temporary teeth on the day of the surgery and will return within 1-2 weeks to have their first post-op visit and receive their fist implant prototype teeth. It is important to remain on a very soft diet after surgery and before receiving your first prototype.

PROTOTYPES

1-2 weeks after your surgery you will return to check your healing and receive your first set of implant prototype teeth that will be attached directly to your implants. We allow up to 3 versions of teeth during the healing process to ensure the dentist and patient is happy with the look and feel. As your implants heal your dentist will create a series of prototypes for your implant bridge. These prototypes will be used to test the fit and function of the bridge before it is permanently placed.
STEP 5
STEP 6

HEALING

The implants will need to heal for 4-6 months before the next step can be taken. Dr. Bally will also provide a night guard to help prevent excess pressure from going to your implants. As you heal you will remain on a soft diet.

PROTOTYPING AND VERIFICATION

Once the implants have healed, your dentist will create a final prototype of your dental bridge. This prototype will be verified to ensure that it is the correct size, shape, and color. Before authorizing the fabrication of your new zirconia implant smile.
STEP 7
STEP 8

DELIVERY

This is the appointment where your permanent dental bridge is placed. The procedure typically takes about 1 hour. It's a truly rewarding visit for everyone.

POST-DELIVERY CONSULT AND DOCUMENTATION

This appointment is held after your new zirconia implant smile is installed and your final night guard is given and instructions to maintain your smile are discussed. Final pictures, X-rays and video mark the end of your zirconia implant smile journey.
STEP 9
STEP 10

MAINTENANCE

Your zirconia implant smile will need to be maintained on a regular basis to ensure that it continues to function properly. This may include cleaning, adjustments, and checkups.

Examination & X-Ray

We'll thoroughly examine the tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of damage and confirm that a crown is the right treatment. If there's active decay, it will be removed first.

Tooth Preparation

The tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown. A small amount of enamel is removed from the sides and top of the tooth so the crown fits properly without feeling bulky. The area is fully numbed throughout.

Impressions

We take a precise impression of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. This is sent to a dental lab where your custom crown is fabricated to fit your bite exactly.

Temporary Crown

A temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while your permanent crown is being made. Temporary crowns are functional but not as strong as permanent ones — treat them with some care.
Visit Two — Permanent Crown Placement
When your permanent crown is ready, you'll return to have the temporary removed and the permanent crown fitted. We'll check the fit, color, and bite carefully before cementing it permanently in place.

How to Care for Your Dental Crown

A well-maintained crown can last 10–15 years or longer. Here's how to protect your investment:
  • Brush twice daily and floss daily — including around the crown and at the gumline
  • Be mindful when flossing around a crown — slide the floss out rather than pulling it upward to avoid dislodging it
  • Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or very hard foods that can crack a crown
  • If you grind your teeth at night, let us know — a night guard can protect your crown from excessive wear
  • Attend regular dental checkups so we can monitor the condition of your crown and the tooth beneath it
  • If your crown feels loose, cracked, or your bite feels off, come in promptly — don't wait
We'll assess the condition of your existing fillings and let you know whether replacement is medically recommended or purely elective, so you can make the right decision for your situation.

Walk In Any Weekend for a Crown Consultation

Serving patients across Los Angeles including Westlake, Echo Park, Koreatown, Silver Lake, Downtown LA, and surrounding neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions