Dental Crowns

Damaged or decayed teeth are unhealthy and can cause serious discomfort. They also make it difficult to chew and speak. A dental crown covers a damaged tooth, restoring health to your smile. Crowns look so realistic they even have cosmetic applications.

Learn why people in San Diego, CA, trust Dr. Daniel Stragier of Balboa Dental Care for their crowns during a free consultation.

"I come down from Northern Idaho
and still see Dr Stragier and his wonderful staff."
A San Diego Dentist
That Patients Trust

1

Oscar Mendoza

San Diego, CA

2024

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Great dentist office. The dentist, receptionist, and dental assistant were very nice and professional. Office is clean and there is plenty of parking. Prices are fair.

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1

donna guhl

San Diego, CA

2023

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I come down from Northern Idaho and still see Dr Stragier and his wonderful staff. It’s because I trust him and love talking to his staff.

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An Update on a Time-Tested Solution State-of-the-Art Materials

dental crowns
Dental crowns have been in use in dentistry for decades. Thanks to advanced materials, the crowns Dr. Daniel Stragier provides at our San Diego practice are incredibly strong and look completely natural.

Zirconia Crowns Durable and Beautiful Restorations

Closeup of zirconia crown

Stronger Than Traditional Porcelain

Tooth-colored crowns were often crafted from porcelain, but advances in materials have resulted in zirconia and lithium disilicate crowns. We use zirconia almost exclusively when crafting custom crowns. At the moment, zirconia is the strongest non-metallic restoration material.

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Bacteria-Resistant and Biocompatible

Some patients have a metal allergy, which disqualifies them from receiving metal-based restorations. Zirconia is a durable composite material that will not trigger an allergic response to metals. The material is also bacteria-resistant, which can help promote good oral health.

Closeup of smile

Results Look Like Natural Teeth

Zirconia is virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth, blending in seamlessly with the rest of your smile. Dr. Stragier will take extra time at no additional charge to ensure your crowns are color-matched to your front teeth. This means extremely strong restorations that look pristine.

Want to Learn More About Dental Crowns? Contact Balboa Dental Care

If you are in need of a crown, Balboa Dental Care is here to help you. Our friendly dentistry practice has been helping patients in the greater San Diego area for over 30 years.

Dr. Daniel Stragier is a compassionate dentist who focuses on the individual needs, concerns, and goals of each patient. He is proud to be affiliated with:

  • The Academy of General Dentistry
  • The San Diego Implant Study Club

To schedule a free consultation, contact Balboa Dental Care online or call our San Diego, CA, dental office at:

(858) 541-1844

Dr. Daniel Stragier

Five-Star Patient Reviews An Experienced San Diego Dentist

1

David Meng

San Diego, CA

2024

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Everything was great as usual. I really feel good about your care for my teeth. Thanks

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Joseph Williams

San Diego, CA

2024

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Dr Stragier and the team are great! Very professional and caring. I highly recommend them.

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How a Dental Crown Works The Basics and the Benefits

A dental crown is a strong cap that is placed onto a tooth that is structurally compromised by cavities or fractures. The restoration is crafted so that it resembles a natural tooth. Whether made of metal or tooth-colored materials like zirconia and lithium disilicate, crowns serve a few basic functions:

Protecting a Tooth

While compromised tooth structure is removed to place a crown, the dentist leaves a good portion of the healthy tooth. This remaining tooth structure is what the crown covers. Crowns prevent teeth from needing to be extracted and protect compromised teeth from further harm.

Relieving Pain

Severely damaged teeth are often sensitive or painful. The acute tooth sensitivity is usually triggered by hot and cold temperatures or pressure from biting and chewing. A dental crown relieves tooth sensitivity, allowing patients to eat, drink, and speak comfortably.

Restoring Function

In addition to being painful, fractured teeth are at risk of experiencing further damage. People often avoid biting or chewing with a fractured tooth. By placing a durable crown on a damaged tooth, our dentist can restore bite strength and your ability to eat solid, nutritious foods.

The Cost of Dental Crowns Affordable Care for San Diego, CA

Dental crown treatment typically costs between $1,200 and $2,000 at our dental office in San Diego. Costs can vary based on the material used for the crown and the severity of the tooth damage that has to be treated. Dr. Stragier regularly reviews the prices of other dentists in the San Diego area to ensure that our prices remain competitive yet affordable.

Balboa Dental Care works with most dental insurance providers. We also accept payment plans for major work, including plans with 0% financing for 12 months. We try our best to make sure that cost never stands between our patients and the dental treatments they need.

Other Applications for Dental Crowns In Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry

Crowns and Cosmetic Dentistry

While crowns are typically considered a restorative procedure, they are also used in cosmetic dentistry. Damaged teeth can be strengthened with zirconia, porcelain, or other tooth-colored materials. If you have a tooth that is small or unevenly shaped, a crown can be placed on the flawed tooth to achieve better overall symmetry. These restorations can also be used as a sturdier alternative to porcelain veneers. An aesthetic crown can cover an intrinsically stained tooth that cannot be bleached with teeth whitening.

Read More on Cosmetic Dentistry

Crowns and Root Canals

Caused by untreated tooth decay and fractures, a root canal infection occurs when oral bacteria reaches the dental pulp (soft tissue) located within a tooth. An abscess may form and the infection could spread to other parts of the mouth. Rather than extracting infected teeth, a dentist may recommend a root canal. The root canal procedure involves the removal of diseased pulp from infected teeth and the sterilization of the pulp chamber. The chamber is then filled with an inert material. A crown is used to cap the treated tooth.

Read More on Root Canals

Crowns and Dental Implants

If you are missing a single tooth or individual teeth in different parts of the mouth, Dr. Stragier may recommend dental implants. These artificial tooth roots are surgically embedded into the jaw. Over time, the implants fuse with the bone. This process is known as osseointegration, and it takes several months to complete. When the implant site has healed, the post can support a dental crown. The crown fills the gap and blends in with your natural teeth. The stability of an implant-supported crown cannot be matched by traditional bridgework.

Read More on Implants

"Everyone is nice and caring at Balboa Dental." What San Diego Patients Say
About Our Practice 

1

Timothy summers

San Diego, CA

2024

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I have been fearful of dentists my entire life.Balboa dental care was the most satisfying experience. My past experiences with dentists was very unpleasant and painful.I recommend them for dental care and I and my family will continue to use them and no others. A well deserved 5 stars. Thank you Balboa dental care.

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1

V Brown

San Diego, CA

2023

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Everyone is nice and caring at Balboa Dental Care. I had a cavity filled and two crowns to repair two broken teeth. One crown was to repair a broken permanent tooth that had come in at an angle. Dr. Stragier shaped the tooth and placed the crown to make it look like an upright regular tooth. Everything was smooth, calming, and relaxing. Thanks everyone!

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Find Out If Dental Crowns Are Right for You Contact Dr. Daniel Stragier

Dental crowns have numerous benefits for people who have severely decayed or damaged teeth. They may be just what you need to rehabilitate your oral health. To speak with Dr. Stragier about dental crowns, message our team or call our office in San Diego, CA, at:

(858) 541-1844

The Dental Crown Timeline Step by Step

Dr. Stragier performs all dental crown procedures in the familiar, comforting atmosphere of our San Diego office
All consultations at Balboa Dental Care are free of charge.
All consultations at Balboa Dental Care are free of charge.

Consultation

All consultations at Balboa Dental Care are free of charge. During this initial appointment at our practice, Dr. Stragier can determine if your damaged tooth needs a dental crown, or if another type of restoration would be better for your needs.

Tooth Preparation

If Dr. Stragier determines that you are a good candidate, the first step is the preparation of the damaged tooth. Damaged or decayed portions of the tooth will be removed, and the remaining tooth structure will be reshaped to create a base for the crown. Though we will thoroughly numb the area before treatment, sedation options are also available to help calm any nerves. 

Crown Preparation

The dentist will take an impression of your teeth that will be used to design your custom-made crown. Our custom crowns are made of strong materials like zirconia at a lab. The crown may take up to two weeks to be completed.

Temporary Crown

While waiting for the permanent crown to be finished, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. Avoid sticky foods, and try to chew on the side of your mouth that's opposite the temporary crown.

Crown Placement

Once your new crown is completed, you will return to our San Diego office to have the finished crown attached to your prepped tooth. Your temporary crown will be removed. With the temporary crown gone, your permanent crown will then be secured to the tooth with dental cement.

Recovery Period

Patients may experience mild tooth sensitivity and swelling around the treatment site, but this should only last for a few days after receiving your permanent crown. 
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Smile!

Now you can go out and enjoy your improved bite and smile!

Questions About the Dental Crown Procedure?  Ask Dr. Stragier and His Experienced Team

While dental crowns provide several benefits, we understand if you still have some concerns you’d like to address before committing to the procedure. We can answer any questions you may have about dental crowns, the procedure, financing, and more. 

You can request a consultation, submit your questions directly, or call our San Diego office at: 

(858) 541-1844

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All members of our staff have served the San Diego area from our practice for 10 years or more.

"Dr. Stragier is the absolute best." A San Diego Dentist with a Loyal Patient Base

1

Debra Degen

San Diego, CA

2022

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Dr Stragier is the absolute best. He is gentle, honest, experienced, and he KNOWS his stuff. After 10 years of great care, I tried a dentist closer to my home, but I came back, because Dr Stragier is worth the drive. His staff is also amazing. I’d give them 10 stars if I could!

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Donald Cangialosi

San Diego, CA

2023

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They did a great job. I was very happy with all the work performed. I am very thankful for the professionalism at this office.

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How to Care For Your Temporary Crown

While your custom crown is being crafted, we'll place a temporary crown to cover your treated tooth in the meantime. Here are some tips to help take care of your temporary crown as you wait: 

  • Practice good hygiene and brush gently around the crown
  • Try to chew with the side of your mouth opposite the crown 
  • Avoid sticky, hard, sharp, very hot, and very cold foods 
  • Pull floss out horizontally from between your teeth to avoid dislodging the crown 

Sedation Dentistry Can Eliminate Anxiety A Comforting Experience
At The Dentist's Office

If you suffer from anxiety about dental visits and are nervous about getting a crown, our team can put you at ease. We offer different levels of sedation, which can help patients achieve a relaxed state. Sedation can be used in combination with the numbing effects of local anesthesia to provide a comfortable patient experience.

Balboa Dental Care offers two main types of sedation: 

Patient receiving laughing gas

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is a light sedation option that works instantly to help calm your nerves. The effects wear off almost immediately so you can still drive home after treatment. 

Patient taking oral sedation pill

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation can vary in strength and is taken as a pill a few hours before the procedure. For this sedation, you will need someone else to drive you home. 


Thanks to these sedation methods, you'll be able to undergo the treatment you need without any fear or stress. It's one of many things we do to make each visit a comforting and welcoming experience.

Discuss Your Sedation Options  During a Free Consultation

Don’t let anxiety come between you and a functional smile. 

If you have dental anxiety or a condition that makes it difficult to sit through a procedure, then our sedation techniques may be a good choice for you. Dr. Stragier and his staff can answer your questions about sedation and find the option right for you. 

Discuss your sedation options with Dr. Stragier during a free consultation, submit your questions through our contact form, or call our San Diego office at: 

(858) 541-1844

Patient in dental chair

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns 

Does a crown protect your teeth from decay? 

A dental crown can certainly protect the exposed portions of your teeth and prevent further damage, but they do not make your teeth impervious to decay. The gums and roots of your natural tooth are still susceptible to bacteria, which is why practicing good hygiene is just as important after receiving a crown. 

What happens if you wait too long to get a crown?

In many cases, a dental crown is the last line of defense against tooth extraction. While we do everything in our power to save your tooth, sometimes an extraction is necessary to prevent the decay from spreading to other teeth.  

How do you tell if a crown is not fitted properly?

The biggest indicator that a crown is loose or needs adjustments is if it feels uncomfortable in your mouth. A new crown takes around a week to get used to, but if it still doesn’t feel natural or prevents you from fully biting down, then you should contact our practice.

Are there alternatives to dental crowns?

No, crowns have a distinct function that other dental treatments cannot match. Inlays and onlays can replace a moderate amount of compromised dental tissue, but they cannot treat the extensive damage that a dental crown can. Likewise, bridges and dentures can replace missing teeth, but can't save your natural tooth from being extracted. 

"I have never loved a dentist office more!" Glowing Reviews From
the San Diego Area 

1

Bobbie Keeling

San Diego, CA

2023

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I have never loved a dentist office more! Everyone is soooooo nice! Kelsey is the best hygienist I have ever had. You don’t even know the Doctor is working on you he is so gentle! Terri is the fabulous office manager and takes care of everything !

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1

Gale Perez

2023

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I have been coming here for years. I moved away from San Diego, but I like this dental office so much that I came back for an appointment.  Everyone is very professional, honest and courteous, and I feel that I always get a very good cleaning. I also like the fact that the office does not push cosmetic treatments that you don't need.

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Dr. Daniel Stragier

Balboa Dental Care

Dr. Daniel Stragier at Balboa Dental Care has provided patients with comprehensive, personalized service since 1985. Our office uses state-of-the-art technology, and Dr. Stragier holds membership in:

  • Academy of General Dentistry
  • San Diego Implant Study Club

To request an appointment, fill out our contact form or call our Clairemont Mesa dental office at (858) 541-1844.

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