Get Strong and Natural Dental Crowns at El Camino Dental Arts, Vista, CA

Dental crowns are a highly reliable restorative option used to repair teeth that are cracked, worn down, or weakened by decay. With a success rate of over 90% and a typical lifespan of 5–15 years or more with proper care, crowns are a lasting solution. At El Camino Dental Arts, we provide strong, natural-looking crowns to protect your teeth and restore their normal function. Our team is focused on making your visit comfortable and ensuring your results are durable.

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What Are Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its original shape, strength, and function. A crown may be necessary if a tooth is cracked, severely worn, has a large filling, or has undergone a root canal. Crowns are also used to anchor a dental bridge or complete a dental implant.

When a standard filling is not sufficient to repair a tooth, a crown provides the comprehensive coverage needed to prevent further damage and make chewing comfortable again. It is a proven solution for preserving your teeth and maintaining a healthy mouth.

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Types of Dental Crowns

We offer several types of dental crowns, and our team will help you select the ideal option based on the tooth's location, your bite, and your aesthetic goals.

• Porcelain & Ceramic: These crowns offer the most natural appearance and are an excellent choice for front teeth.
• Zirconia: This material combines superior strength with a natural look, making it suitable for any tooth in the mouth.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): PFM crowns have a strong metal structure with a porcelain exterior. They are very durable but may show a thin metal line at the gum line over time.
• Metal Alloys: Crowns from gold or other metal alloys are extremely durable and ideal for back molars that endure heavy chewing forces.

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Dental Crown Procedure

The process for getting a dental crown is typically completed in two visits.

• First Visit: We will examine the tooth with X-rays and then prepare it by reshaping the enamel to ensure a precise fit for the crown. Next, we take a digital scan or impression to create a perfect model for your custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth.
• Second Visit: Once your permanent crown is ready, we will remove the temporary one and place your final restoration. We will check the fit and your bite, make any necessary minor adjustments, and then permanently bond the crown in place. Your new crown will look and feel like a natural tooth.

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How Dental Crowns Help Preserve Tooth Structure and Function

A crown does more than repair a tooth—it saves it. By fully encasing a weak or cracked tooth, a crown protects from further damage and restores its function.

Crowns allow you to chew and bite without pain and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, which helps maintain proper bite alignment. For a severely damaged tooth, a crown can be the key to avoiding an extraction, offering a smart, effective way to keep your smile strong and healthy.

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Advanced Technology Used in Designing Dental Crowns

Modern technology makes the crown procedure faster, more comfortable, and more precise than ever.

• Digital Scans eliminate the need for traditional, messy impression materials.
• CAD/CAM Technology allows us to design and fabricate your crown accurately.
• Our in-office milling technology may allow us to create and place your crown in a single visit, making same-day crowns possible.
• 3D Imaging helps us plan your treatment and ensure your new crown fits seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.

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Caring for Your Dental Crown

A crown might not be a natural tooth, but still needs care. Treat it well, and it can last for over a decade; keeping it in top shape is easy.

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and floss daily, paying close attention to the area where the crown meets the gum.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candy, which can chip or damage the crown.
• Attend regular dental check-ups so we can monitor the crown and your overall oral health.
• If you grind your teeth, ask us about a custom nightguard to protect your crown and natural teeth.

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Meet Our Dentists

Dr. Erich Schmidt, General Dentistry & Orthodontics
Dr. Erich Schmidt earned his dental degree in 1997 from the University of Washington with a U.S. Navy scholarship. After serving as a Navy dentist, he established his practice in San Diego, where he has helped patients for over 20 years. He is known for his gentle care and friendly, relaxed approach.

Dr. Debra Edson, Endodontic Specialist (Root Canal Treatments)
Dr. Debra Edson is our root canal expert. She graduated from Tufts University and completed her specialty training at USC. As a former Navy Dental Officer, she brings a calm presence and skilled hands to every procedure, making treatments smooth and manageable.

Dr. Anna Hsu, Periodontal Specialist & Dental Implants
Dr. Anna Hsu specializes in gum health and dental implants. She earned both her dental degree and a Master of Science from UCSF. Her kind demeanor and expert care help patients feel comfortable and confident in their treatment.

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Financial Options

• Insurance: We accept most PPO dental insurance plans, including Aetna, Delta Dental, MetLife, etc. We'll handle the billing process at no additional charge to you.
• Payment Methods: We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Your co-pay is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made.
• Financing: CareCredit offers flexible payment plans, including some with 0% interest options, making fitting treatment into your budget easier.