Dental Crowns in San Rafael, Novato & Marin County

Most dentistry looks like dentistry. Our goal is to provide restorations that are virtually undetectable. At Kantor Dental Group, we replace damaged, decayed, or fractured teeth—as well as aging crowns and fillings—with custom porcelain crowns that look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth.

Where damage to a person’s teeth is severe, custom porcelain restorations offer an exceptionally reliable technique to make your smile appear complete and healthy. Whether repairing extensive decay, restoring broken enamel, or permanently replacing missing teeth alongside dental implants or bridges, custom crowns provide long-lasting stability and a functional bite. With proper care, modern ceramic crowns can last 15 to 30 years.

Key Benefits of Dental Crowns

• Restores Tooth Function & Strength: Protects weakened, cracked, or heavily filled teeth from further damage or breakage.
• Completely Natural Appearance: Custom shade-matched porcelain blends seamlessly with your neighboring natural teeth.
• Relieves Biting Pain: Seals hairline cracks and structurally reinforces teeth to eliminate pain caused by chewing pressure.
• Long-Term Durability: High-grade ceramic and porcelain-fused materials offer a long-lasting restorative solution.
• Completes Missing Teeth: Serves as the natural-looking top restoration for dental implants or fixed bridgework.

The Dental Crown Process: What to Expect

Fitting a custom dental crown typically requires two comfortable visits to our Marin County office:

1. Initial Consultation & Tooth Preparation: Dr. Grey Kantor or Dr. Jeng will gently remove any decay or compromised tooth structure and carefully shape the tooth. Detailed digital impressions or scans are captured for the laboratory, and a custom temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth.
2. Final Placement & Bonding: Once your permanent custom crown is crafted by our lab, you return for your second visit. We remove the temporary crown, check the fit, bite alignment, and color match, and permanently bond the new crown into place.

When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?

Dental crowns are a versatile solution for a variety of cosmetic and structural dental concerns, including:

• Cracked Tooth Syndrome: Relieves unexplained pain when chewing caused by hidden hairline cracks in filled back teeth.
• Post-Root Canal Protection: Reinforces brittle teeth following root canal therapy to prevent future fractures.
• Large or Failing Fillings: Replaces old, deteriorating, or discolored fillings that no longer adequately support remaining tooth structure.
• Severe Wear or Accidental Trauma: Restores teeth worn down by grinding (bruxism) or broken due to physical injury.
• Cosmetic Enhancement: Corrects severely misshapen, short, or deeply discolored teeth where porcelain veneers may not provide sufficient coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

How long does a dental crown last?

With good home oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings, high-quality porcelain crowns typically last between 15 and 30 years. Avoiding habits like biting ice or using teeth to open packages will maximize your restoration’s lifespan.

Is getting a dental crown painful?

No. The area around the tooth is thoroughly numbed with local anesthetic before any preparation work begins. Most patients experience minimal to no discomfort during the process, and any mild sensitivity following the appointment subsides quickly.

What is the difference between a crown and a veneer?

A porcelain veneer covers only the front surface of a tooth and is primarily used for cosmetic improvements on front teeth. A dental crown encases the entire tooth (360 degrees) to provide structural strength and protection when a tooth is severely cracked, decayed, or weakened.

How much does a dental crown cost in Marin County?

The cost of a dental crown varies based on the material selected (such as high-grade ceramic or zircionia) and the specific tooth being restored. During your evaluation in San Rafael, we provide itemized pricing, assist with dental insurance benefits, and discuss payment options.