Crowns and Bridges

Dental crowns and bridges are restorations that strengthen and protect damaged or broken teeth.

Understanding Crowns and Bridges

Crowns are custom-made to cover a tooth completely, so you may hear them referred to as caps or tooth caps. A crown restores comfortable chewing function and strengthens and supports the tooth. Dental bridges replace missing teeth to restore function and complete your smile. 

We typically use porcelain or ceramic for these restorations because they mimic the strength and appearance of tooth enamel. 

Everyone wants a healthy, beautiful smile, and we can help you reach that goal with dental crowns and bridges. Updated techniques and treatments have made placing crowns and bridges easier than ever.

When Are Dental Crowns and Bridges Used?

Dental crowns are very versatile, and we use them to correct many dental issues, including: 

• Severely decayed teeth
• Previously root canal treated teeth
• Fractured or broken teeth
• Broken or cracked fillings
• Large silver fillings
• Top off a dental implant
• Support a dental bridge

A dental bridge fills the space left by a missing tooth. It is usually made as a single unit held in place by crowns attached to teeth on either side of the gap. This restoration improves your appearance and prevents surrounding teeth from shifting out of place and moving into the gap left by a missing tooth.

What Does Placing a Crown or Bridge Involve?

We can typically place a dental crown or bridge in as few as two visits. First, we prepare your natural tooth to receive the restoration and take impressions that accurately represent the shape and position of your natural teeth so your restoration fits perfectly.

Next, we send the impressions to a custom dental lab, where skilled technicians use them to create your permanent restoration, which usually takes about two weeks. Before you leave our office, we fit you with a temporary bridge or crown to wear while the lab fabricates the final piece.

Once we receive your final restoration, we schedule an appointment for you to return to our office to check the finished restoration for comfort and make any necessary adjustments. The final step is to cement the custom restoration securely in place.

We will also provide instructions for properly caring for your crown or bridge. The restoration is strong and durable under normal conditions, but it requires care to prevent damage and the possible need for replacement.

If you practice proper oral hygiene and schedule regular dental cleanings, your new restoration will last for many years.

Call to Schedule an Evaluation

Are you troubled by a damaged or missing tooth? Please call our dental office today to schedule an evaluation and learn more about your options!