Crowns in Simi Valley
A cracked molar, a tooth weakened by a large old filling, or a tooth that has just had a root canal can make everyday moments harder than they should be. Biting into a sandwich, sipping something cold, or chewing on one side of your mouth all become things you think twice about. A dental crown is one of the most dependable ways to bring that tooth back into everyday use, and our team at 805 Dentistry helps patients from Simi Valley do exactly that.
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the entire visible portion of a tooth. It restores the tooth's shape, size, and strength while protecting what remains of the natural tooth underneath. Unlike a filling, which replaces only a small area of lost structure, a crown covers and supports the whole tooth. That makes it the better option when damage is too extensive for a filling to hold up over time.
Crowns are also a key part of other restorations we provide. They serve as the visible tooth on top of dental implants, and they anchor bridges that replace missing teeth. As a general, family, and cosmetic practice led by Dr. Dar Radfar, DDS, we see crowns used across a wide range of situations, from a single worn tooth to a larger restorative plan.
Many of our patients travel from Simi Valley because they want one practice that can handle the whole picture, not just one step of it. Our office has an on-site dental lab, so your restoration work stays closely connected to the team caring for you. That close coordination helps us fine-tune details of your crown as we go.
Our office also brings several specialties under one roof, which matters when a crown is part of a bigger story. If a tooth needs a root canal first, our board-certified endodontist can treat it, including cracked teeth and root canal retreatments. If a tooth doesn't have enough exposed structure to hold a crown, our board-certified periodontist performs crown lengthening. For Simi Valley families, that means fewer referrals elsewhere and a more connected experience overall.
Who is a good candidate for a dental crown?
You may be a good candidate if a tooth is damaged, weakened, or worn beyond what a filling can reliably repair. During your exam, we look closely at the tooth and talk with you about what you're experiencing before recommending anything.
Common reasons we recommend a crown include:
- A cracked or fractured tooth that needs to be held together
- A tooth with a large filling that leaves little natural structure
- A tooth that has had root canal therapy and needs protection
- A tooth that is badly worn down or broken
- A missing tooth being replaced with an implant or bridge
- A discolored or misshapen tooth as part of cosmetic treatment
We treat both children and adults, so crowns can be part of care for patients across many stages of life. If a crown isn't the right fit, we'll explain alternatives such as inlays, onlays, or composite bonding so you can choose with confidence.
What happens during the crown process?
The process begins with a thorough exam and imaging so we understand the tooth's condition, including what's happening below the surface. From there, we explain your plan step by step, including any treatment the tooth may need before the crown is placed.
Next, we prepare the tooth by gently reshaping it so the crown fits securely over it. Your crown is then designed to match your bite and blend in with your smile, and we check the fit and comfort carefully before it's permanently placed. If you feel anxious about dental work, we offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, and our board-certified dental anesthesiologist supports patients who need a deeper level of comfort.
How do I care for my crown afterward?
You care for a crown much like a natural tooth: brush twice a day, floss daily, and keep up with regular cleanings and exams. The crown itself can't decay, but the natural tooth beneath it still can, especially along the gumline.
It's normal to notice some mild sensitivity for a short time after placement. Avoid chewing ice or hard objects, and if you grind your teeth at night, ask us about a night mouth guard to help protect your crown. If a crown ever feels loose or breaks, call us. We offer emergency dental appointments for patients who need help quickly.
How can I pay for a dental crown?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, and many plans provide coverage for crowns when they're needed to restore a tooth. Our team will review your benefits with you so you know what to expect before treatment begins.
We also welcome self-pay patients, and financing is available to help spread the cost over time. If you live in Simi Valley and have a tooth that's been bothering you, reach out to our office. We're glad to examine it, answer your questions, and help you decide on the next step.