The short answer
A dental crown is a custom cap that covers a damaged tooth to restore its strength, shape and appearance; a bridge uses crowns on neighboring teeth to replace one or more missing teeth. At Pacific Dental Group in Montebello, crowns and bridges are crafted from natural-looking porcelain or zirconia and typically completed in two visits.
- Visits
- Usually 2
- Materials
- Porcelain, zirconia, PFM
- Lifespan
- 10–15+ years
- Insurance
- Often covered ~50%
Who crowns & bridges is right for
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Teeth with large or failing fillings
- Teeth after root canal treatment
- One to three missing teeth in a row
What to expect, step by step
Prepare
The tooth is numbed, shaped and scanned.
Temporary
A temporary crown protects the tooth while the lab works.
Try-in
We check fit, bite and shade with you.
Cement
Your permanent crown or bridge is bonded in place.
When does a tooth need a crown instead of a filling?
When decay or a crack affects a large portion of the tooth, a filling can act like a wedge and split the tooth. A crown wraps the entire tooth and holds it together.
Back teeth that have had a root canal almost always need a crown, because they become more brittle without their nerve and blood supply.
Which crown material is best?
Zirconia is extremely strong and great for molars. Layered porcelain offers the most lifelike translucency for front teeth. We help you weigh strength, appearance and cost.
Crowns & Bridges cost in Montebello
Most PPO plans cover crowns and bridges at about 50% after deductible, and Denti-Cal covers qualifying cases. We provide written estimates before treatment.
Most major PPO plans and Denti-Cal accepted. Cash and card patients welcome, with financing for qualifying patients. See insurance & financing.
Crowns & Bridges FAQs
How long does a dental crown last?
Commonly 10–15 years or longer with good hygiene and regular checkups.
Does getting a crown hurt?
The tooth is numbed, so most patients feel pressure only. Mild sensitivity afterward usually fades in days.
Can I eat with a temporary crown?
Yes, but avoid sticky and very hard foods on that side and floss by sliding the floss out rather than pulling up.
Bridge or implant for a missing tooth?
Bridges are faster; implants protect neighboring teeth and bone. We will explain both for your situation.
Will my crown match my other teeth?
Yes. We shade-match carefully, and if you plan to whiten, we recommend doing it before the crown is made.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lina Shahinyan, DDS, MS· Source: ADA MouthHealthy — Crowns
