Crowns (Caps)

Dr. Pamela MacPherson is Crown Specialist!

Dr. Pamela MacPherson is crown specialist a because she is a Board Certified Prosthodontist, and received extensive training on designing and fabricating custom crowns.  Her crowns look and function so much like your natural teeth, that only a dentist will be able to tell it is a crown.  Dr. MacPherson can determine if crowns are a good option for you.  Call to make an appointment today!

What is a crown ?

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size.  A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored) are the most popular.  They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced.  Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

Reasons for crowns:

  • Broken or fracturing teeth.
  • Cosmetic enhancement.
  • Decaying teeth.
  • Fractured fillings.
  • Large fillings.
  • Tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

Find out if crowns are the right treatment for you.  Call to make an appointment today!


Pamela A. MacPherson, DDS, FACP
Specialist in Prosthodontics
306 Walnut Ave Suite 24
San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: 619-294-9525
Fax: 619-294-4083