Porcelain Crowns

At Dental Oasis of Orange County, we offer patients various treatment options, starting with the most holistic approaches to care that will effectively address oral health issues and help patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Dental crowns, especially porcelain crowns, are typically a preventative tooth-saving treatment recommended for a tooth that has fractures, cracks, or an old failing metal filling. 

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped, restorative dental prosthetic designed to fit over, cover, and protect the portion of a tooth that is exposed above the gum line. Dental crowns are also sometimes referred to as tooth crowns or caps. 

Dental crowns can be made of several different materials and combinations of materials. The most common types of dental crowns include:

• All Porcelain - Porcelain is durable and looks aesthetically natural. 
• Porcelain Fused to Metal - Porcelain fused to underlying metal offers a natural look supported by a basically indestructible framework. 
• Metal - Metal crowns are the strongest but they are not typically recommended for visible teeth because they are not tooth colored. 
• Zirconia -  This type of crown is made of a hybrid ceramic material that offers superior strength while still looking natural. 

The type of dental crown that is right for you will depend on the location and type of tooth being treated. For example, the front teeth and molars typically require dental crowns made from the strongest materials because they are subject to the highest forces of chewing pressure. Additionally, we typically recommend crowns made from the most natural-looking materials for visible teeth. Dr. Vuong can discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each type and provide you with personalized recommendations for your treatment. 

Why Should You Get Porcelain Crown?

Porcelain offers both restorative and cosmetic benefits. Perfect for fixing issues like uneven tooth shapes, permanent stains, and gaps, these crowns are crafted from premium ceramic that captures the light and color of natural teeth, ensuring a flawless integration with your smile.

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Beyond just enhancing your smile's appearance, porcelain crowns provide strong protection for teeth that are damaged or decayed. They cover the tooth completely, preventing further issues and restoring its normal function. This combination of beauty and strength makes porcelain crowns a favorite for those looking to enhance and protect their dental health. To dive deeper into the advantages of porcelain crowns, check out the resources available from the American Dental Association.

The Tooth Crown Procedure: What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown

The dental crown procedure is fairly simple and minimally invasive. We use local anesthetics to ensure patients experience no pain or discomfort during the process. If needed, we also offer sedation dentistry options to ease anxiety and promote relaxation during treatment. 

Consultation and Preparation

• The process begins with a thorough examination. This typically includes diagnostic images such as dental X-rays, which allow our dentist to have a clear and thorough understanding of the extent of infection or damage.
• We then treat the tooth and prepare it for a dental crown. The treatment process varies depending on the issue at hand. Most commonly, dental crown placement follows root canal therapy. 
• After treatment, the dentist shaves down the exterior portion of the tooth, creating space for the dental crown and a more uniform surface for permanent placement. 

Crown Design and Creation

• We use advanced digital scanners to scan the patient's teeth and upload this data into powerful design software that creates a custom-designed digital dental crown blueprint. The dental crown is then milled at a dental lab. 

Crown Placement

• Once the crown is ready, the patient comes in for a second appointment where we use strong dental cement to permanently place the dental crown. 
• We can then make any necessary final adjustments before treatment is complete. 

Ongoing Care

• On average, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years (depending on the material, location, and care). With exceptional care, a crown can last up to 25 years. 
• To extend the life of your crown, continue visiting the dentist for routine checkups and maintenance, avoid chewing on hard objects, and protect your smile with an athletic mouthguard (and a nightguard if you suffer from sleep bruxism). 

Healing and Recovery: What to Expect After Getting a Dental Crown

It’s completely normal to experience some teeth sensitivity after getting a dental crown. Just like any other medical procedure, your body needs time to heal and adjust. While the tooth underneath is protected, the surrounding tissues, nerves, and even your bite may take some time to settle.

Mild discomfort or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is common in the days following treatment. This typically subsides within a few weeks but, in some cases, can take a few months to fully resolve as your tooth and bite adapt to the new restoration. Think of it like recovering from knee or hip surgery—while the initial procedure is complete, the body still needs time to adjust, heal, and regain full function.

If you experience prolonged sensitivity, discomfort when biting, or any other concerns, our team is here to help. In most cases, minor adjustments or desensitizing treatments can alleviate lingering discomfort. In the meantime, maintaining good oral hygiene and following any care instructions provided by your dentist will help ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

How Much Does a Porcelain Crown Cost?

On average, a single dental crown can range between about $800 and $3,000. The cost of a tooth crown varies significantly depending on the type of dental crown needed, the type of tooth being treated, and the materials used to construct the crown. Additionally, the total cost of treatment varies based on the complexity and extent of preparatory work needed before designing and placing a dental crown. 

Insurance coverage for dental crowns varies depending on the insurance provider and individual policy. Coverage is much more likely for dental crowns deemed restorative and medically necessary than for those chosen solely for cosmetic or aesthetic reasons 

Our billing staff assists you in understanding your dental care costs. We provide a detailed estimate of treatment expenses and help navigate your insurance policy to clarify anticipated out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, we offer a flexible payment plan for easier management of your payments. Contact our office at (714) 452-8498 today to ask about your Financing options.

Why You Should Get Crowns Done at Dental Oasis of Orange County?

Our cosmetic dentist has years of experience and uses the most advanced tools and technology to deliver the best treatments and unmatched results. Dental crowns by Dental Oasis of Orange County are designed, created, and placed with the utmost precision, artistry, and care. From your dental crown consultation to the crown's permanent placement, we curate a personalized treatment experience guided by you, your needs, and your health. 

What truly sets us apart is how we combine cutting-edge technology with a compassionate and personal approach. At Dental Oasis, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Vuong takes time to understand your goals, concerns, and lifestyle before crafting a treatment plan. That means your crown won’t just restore function—it will look natural, feel comfortable, and last.

We use CEREC same-day crown technology, which allows us to design, fabricate, and place your crown in a single visit—eliminating the hassle of temporary crowns and return appointments. Our office also features gunk-free digital impressions, pain-free x-rays, and laser-assisted techniques to enhance comfort and improve accuracy at every step.

To request a consultation or learn more about getting a tooth crown in Huntington Beach, CA, we welcome you to contact our office today.