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What is a crown?

posted: Feb. 06, 2024.

If you have never had a crown before, you might be wondering why crown treatment is best, what the procedure involves, and which type of crown to choose. Let’s get down to the basics of crowns!

A crown is the best way to treat many dental conditions, either to strengthen and save the tooth or to improve its appearance. We might suggest a crown if you have any of the following conditions:

  • A filling that needs to be replaced, without enough tooth structure left to fill properly
  • A tooth that is fractured or broken, or so weak that it might fracture
  • A recent root canal
  • An implant
  • A bridge which needs a crown to serve as the base for attachment
  • A tooth that is discolored or irregularly shaped

On your first visit to our Farmington, New Mexico office, the doctor will prepare the tooth that will be receiving a crown. A tooth might have to be built up if there isn’t enough of the original tooth left, or the top and sides of the tooth will be shaped down so that the crown fits smoothly and evenly with your other teeth. An impression will be made and sent to a dental lab so that a crown with the perfect fit for your tooth and mouth can be created. A temporary crown will be put in place to protect your tooth while the final crown is fabricated.

 The permanent crown is a cap which covers your tooth. It can be made of various materials, which all offer different advantages:

  • Metal Crowns—made of gold, platinum or base metal alloys, these are the longest lasting. Because of their metallic color, they are often chosen for back molars where they are less visible.
  • Porcelain Over Metal—because the color of the porcelain is matched to your natural teeth, these crowns look very realistic. Porcelain is more fragile than metal, so there is the possibility that they won’t be as durable.
  • Resin—less expensive than other options, but these crowns are more fragile and do not wear as well.
  • All Porcelain/All Ceramic—the most realistic looking option, especially for front teeth, and also suitable for anyone with a metal allergy. They are, again, not as strong as metal crowns, and can be subject to damage.
  • Stainless Steel—often used for baby teeth or as a temporary crown for adult teeth.

We’ll discuss your options and help you decide on the best type of crown for you. When the crown is finished at the dental lab, you will have one more visit where the crown will be secured in place. We will make sure your bite is comfortable and the color and appearance of the crown are satisfactory. We will also give you instructions for the next few days following the procedure, and can make adjustments if needed.

A crown is a perfect example of form and function working together: a crown maintains the beauty of your smile and preserves the health of your tooth. If you need a crown, we will be happy to talk to you about your best options for a strong, long-lasting, and natural smile.

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Meet Our Team

Meet Our Team

Learn who we are

  • Dr.
    Travis Watson
    Farmington, NM Dentist

    I grew up in western Nebraska and graduated from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in 2008. I've been married to Deidra since 2001 and I have two sons. 

    I love: golfing, traveling, watching the Huskers and the Broncos, dark chocolate, and ketchup (not together).

    I dislike: inconsiderate people, stepping in water in socks, and being late.

    You may not know that: I call my mom almost every day. I am very competitive and love to earn trophies. I am a practical joker and am quite good at juggling. 

  • Deidra Watson
    Office Manager

    I grew up in the dental office. My father is Dr. Harvey Weber. I started out as a child licking stamps and folding letters and then began doing more advanced clerical work. By the time I was a teenager I was working in the lab pouring up models. I received a Bachelor’s of Dental Hygiene from the University of Nebraska in 2002 and worked for six years in that profession while putting my husband through dental school. At the same time, I went to night school for my Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling. We moved to Farmington in 2008. My husband, Dr. Travis Watson, and I purchased the practice from my dad in 2011. All the years I’ve spent in the office and my experience as a hygienist working in different offices and even the University setting has really helped me to understand the ins and outs of a dental practice and I enjoy the challenges of owning a business. 

    I love: my two sons, epiphanies, a good nap, Netflix, Indian food.

    I dislike: being hot, waking up early, bake chocolate desserts, giving bad news.

    You may not know that I: play the piano and participate in Fantasy Football. 


  • Valoree Althoff
    Registered Dental Hygienist

    Growing up, I always loved going to the dentist to get my teeth cleaned. As I got older, I began thinking I would like to help other people gain a beautiful smile and confidence. I graduated from the University of New Mexico in 2004 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene. I started at Pinon Hills Dental in 2006. In August 2009, I was married to my best friend, Andy. Together, we have two kids, a Labrador named Ari and a golden retriever named Kimber. I am very active outside of the office in my professional association, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. I have been elected to various positions at the local, state, and national levels including local society president, state secretary, and delegate to the national conference. I am passionate about working with the state and national legislatures through the ADHA to gain access to quality dental care for everyone.

    I love: the Atlanta Braves because when my Grandma passed away from cancer in 2013, it was a way to hold onto her. I want to go to all of the ballparks. I have been to Cooperstown for the Hall of Fame Induction for Chipper Jones, and the 2021 Braves World Series game 4.

    I dislike: Forgetting things, procrastinating-which I am an expert at, rude and dishonest people, and the other teams in the MLB East. Just sayin’.

    You may not know that: my name is Valoree because I was born on Valentine’s Day but my name is spelled differently: there’s a story to that too!

  • Yvette Tafoya
    Registered Dental Hygienist

    A Farmington native, I married Regan in 2002, we have been business owners for just as long. We have two daughters who make our life complete. I am a 2006 SJC Dental Hygiene graduate. I enjoy being a dental hygienist; it is more than just cleaning teeth. I enjoy getting to know our patients and their families. Helping our patients to achieve and maintain dental health, and assisting them in understanding the importance of how it relates to their overall health is rewarding. When not at the dental office, my husband and I run a few barber shops, a barber school and a janitorial business. In the summer months, we spend our weekends at a dirt race-car track, somewhere. I have been a hygienist at PHD since 2015. 

    I love: Road trips with Regan are the best! Being in the company of great friends, Dining Out, Date Nights, Dark Chocolate, German Chocolate Cake

    I dislike: Scary Movies, Artificial Raspberry flavoring, Creepy Crawling Things (I get the house sprayed year-round) and Rodents

    You may not know that: I am a couch potato (when time permits).

  • Jeannie Henley
    Registered Dental Hygienist

    I have lived in the four Corners my entire life. I married my high school sweetheart in 2007 and we have two children. I love helping people and I enjoy helping people maintain dental health. I have been a hygienist at PHD since 2007.

    I love: Chai tea lattes, live music, sunrises, mountain biking, and Birkenstocks.

    I dislike: mint chocolate chip ice cream, asking for help, mean people, squeaky shopping carts and broken fingernails. 

    You may not know that: I enjoy listening to geeky, scientific podcasts in my free time. 

  • Rena Bibo
    Scheduling Coordinator

    I grew up in Texas, but consider myself a New Mexican, as I have lived here for 40 years. I'm an avid adventurer with a zest for life. I find joy in the simple pleasures of reading, cooking, mountain biking, hiking and camping. My love for a healthy lifestyle extends beyond physical activity. My handsome husband of 39 years and I  have 2 wonderful adult children. I have worked for the caring and invaluable Watson's since 2017. 

    I love: a good sense of humor, literally laughing out loud, Jiu Jitsu, UFC, sports, river rafting, movies and delicious homemade food. 

    I dislike: bugs, strong perfume/cologne and dishonesty. 

    You may not know that: I can't sleep late, which can be a blessing and a curse. 

  • Leslee Beasley
    Account Manager

    I was born and raised in Farmington, New Mexico, & graduated from Farmington High School before pursuing my passion for dental care. After attending Chair Dental Academy, I earned my dental assisting license. Over the past 20 years, I've dedicated myself to the dental field and I am currently the Accounts Manager here at Pinon Hills Dental. Outside of work, traveling and quality time with family and friends are my cherished pursuits.  I love cheering for the Oklahoma Sooners and Cowboys Football! My heart belongs to my wonderful husband Lyle, and my active son Jack, who also share my love for sports.  Our family also includes three incredible dogs, Coco, Daphnee, & Daisee, who bring so much love and joy into our lives.  

    I love: reading, online shopping, crystal, and learning from my experiences in life. 

    I dislike: being cold, cats, stubbing my toe, and getting my sleeves wet when I wash my hands.

    You may not know that: I like tiny tattoos and I used to be a Zumba teacher.

Contact Us

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Testimonials

Testimonials

  • "I firmly BELIEVE in painless dentistry, and I am happy to say, that the wonderful folks at Pinon Hills Dental also believe in it! I cannot say enough good things about my care there! Dr. Vanden Broeck and her assistant were genuinely concerned about my comfort. I will need more care ahead, and this is my absolute, go to, dental office!"
    Prairie Dog Google Nov2023
  • "Travis Watson was truly the most kind, compassionate, honest, and detail-oriented dentist that I have ever been to. I have had work done by at least a half dozen or more dentists over the years, and Dr. Watson was BY FAR the most compassionate, kind, and caring when it came to my procedure and dental work needs. I couldn't possibly recommend. Dr. Watson and Pinon Hills Dental any higher. Five stars isn't enough. Dr. Watson should get 10 stars. If there was a Nobel Prize for dentistry, Dr. Watson should win it--and many times over. If you're considering a dentist in the Farmington area--or beyond (I came from Durango)--Dr. Watson should be your choice. Beyond belief, you'll actually look forward going to the dentist. I'm forever grateful for Dr. Watson's skill, compassion, and kindness--and you will be too."
    Peter Barr- Google Dec 2020
  • "If you want a dentist who truly cares about his patients, you must see Dr. Watson. He Has the latest technology in-house and it's amazing. For my last crown, Dr. Watson scanned my tooth with a laser and then a machine in the office milled my crown from porcelain to the scan. It was a perfect fit and that tooth hasn't felt so good in years. He was always asking if I needed a break, if I felt any discomfort to let him know immediately and so on. Can't say enough good things about him. Our entire family trusts Pinon Hills Dental with their dental Care!"
    George Joy Google Aug2023
  • "The staff here are very friendly and accommodating. I was in a decent amount of pain so they moved my appointment up and kept me from hurting for an extra 5 days. Dr. Watson personally called me to check on me and make sure things we're ok. It means a lot that he didn't have an assistant or secretary make that call."
    Kev Sharp-GoogleNov2020
  • "Dr. Watson is absolutely incredible in every way! We have always been treated with the utmost respect, compassion and expertise. He has gone out of his way to treat our family in emergency situations. In each instant, he provided amazing and excellent care when other dentists could not. He is always positive and reassuring in all situations! His office staff, dental assistants and hygienists are incredible in every way! The atmosphere in the office is peaceful, positive and upbeat! We highly recommend Pinon Hills!!!"
    Angela McDaniels- GoogleDec2020
  • "The politeness and care of the dentist, dental hygienist and the staff wowed me today. Dr. Watson and Dr. Weber really have a vested interest in your teeth. They are very concerned to the point that I brush and floss so I won't let them down.
    You never feel belittled by anyone in the office and they only encourage you when you need to do a little better. I used to worry about going to the dentist but now I know I have people who want the best for me in the doctors office."
    Kevin Jaramillo