When a tooth is cracked, heavily worn, weakened by a large filling, or treated with a root canal, a filling alone often isn't enough to protect it. A dental crown — sometimes called a cap — covers the entire visible tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and appearance in one custom-made piece. For adults in Walnut Creek, a crown is one of the most reliable ways to save a damaged tooth and keep it working for years.

At Tooth + Tongue, crowns are designed to fit your bite and blend with your surrounding teeth. We use durable, tooth-colored materials so the finished result looks natural rather than obvious. Whether you're protecting a tooth after a root canal or rebuilding one that's been chipped or worn down, a well-made crown brings back full function without sacrificing the way your smile looks.

What to expect

Treatment begins with an exam to confirm a crown is the right choice — and not a situation better solved by a filling, an implant, or another restorative option. If a crown is the answer, we prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to receive the cap. We then take a precise impression or digital scan so your crown is built to match your bite exactly.

Depending on the material and case, you may wear a temporary crown while the permanent one is made. At the final visit, we check the fit, color, and bite, then bond the crown securely in place. Once it's set, the tooth is ready to handle everyday chewing again. Local anesthesia keeps the process comfortable, and for anxious patients, sedation is available in our specialized practice.

Materials and what they mean for you

Crowns can be made from porcelain, all-ceramic materials like zirconia, or porcelain fused to metal. All-ceramic and porcelain options are popular for front teeth because they mimic natural enamel, while stronger materials are often chosen for back teeth that take on heavier chewing forces. We'll recommend the material that best balances durability and appearance for your specific tooth and walk you through the choice.