What Is a Dental Crown?

At our San Jose dental practice in Los Gatos, a dental crown is a durable, tooth-shaped covering designed to restore a damaged or decayed tooth. It’s custom-made to fit precisely over your natural tooth or a dental implant, blending seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

Crowns serve many purposes — they protect weakened enamel, repair broken or worn teeth, replace missing structure after a root canal, and serve as anchors for bridges. Because each one is crafted individually, it restores both strength and appearance.

When a Dental Crown Might Be the Right Choice

You might need a dental crown if you have:

  • A tooth that’s cracked, chipped, or broken
  • Severe decay that can’t be repaired with a filling
  • A dental implant that needs a natural-looking restoration
  • A bridge that requires a secure anchor

In many cases, placing a crown not only restores function but also prevents future damage or infection.

Key Benefits of a Dental Crown

Dental crowns restore the health, comfort, and appearance of your teeth while keeping your smile looking natural. Each crown is custom-colored and shaped to match surrounding teeth, so no one will know the difference.

Crowns are strong, long-lasting, and protect the tooth underneath from further wear or decay. They also relieve discomfort caused by cracks or broken edges, allowing you to chew and smile confidently again.

Why Choose Our Restorative Dental Crowns

We believe a great restoration should look as good as it feels. That’s why we use high-quality porcelain and ceramic materials that are both durable and biocompatible. These crowns mimic the translucency of natural enamel while providing excellent strength.

Every crown is color-matched to your smile for a flawless finish. Our Los Gatos dentist takes the time to ensure precision, comfort, and aesthetics in every step — from preparation to placement.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Getting a dental crown usually takes two comfortable visits. During your first visit, we’ll prepare your tooth, take digital impressions, and fit a temporary crown to protect it while your custom one is being crafted.

At your second appointment, we’ll place and polish your permanent crown, checking that the fit, bite, and color are perfect. You’ll leave with a restored tooth that looks and feels natural — ready to enjoy your favorite foods again.

Frequently Asked Questions

With proper care and regular checkups, crowns can last 10–15 years or longer. Good brushing, flossing, and avoiding hard foods help extend their life.

Yes. If an older crown becomes worn or discolored, or if you’d prefer a more natural material, we can replace it with a new, precisely fitted crown.

Crowns can loosen due to decay beneath the tooth, grinding, or biting something too hard. If it happens, contact our office right away so we can restore it safely.

While crowns are securely cemented and meant to last for many years, they may eventually need replacement due to normal wear. Regular visits help ensure their longevity.

No — your tooth and surrounding area are fully numbed, and most patients find the process comfortable and simple. Minor sensitivity afterward fades quickly.

Restore Strength and Confidence to Your Smile

If a damaged tooth is affecting your comfort or confidence, a custom crown can restore both. Call (408) 354-5600 or request an appointment online to learn how our restorative dental crowns in Los Gatos and San Jose can strengthen your smile for years to come.