Dental Crowns and Bridges

A dental crown is a single cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It strengthens the tooth and improves its appearance. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth in a row. It uses crowns on nearby teeth or dental implants to hold replacement teeth in place. Both crowns and bridges restore chewing, speaking, and confidence.

Dental crowns and bridges can last many years, often 10 years or longer, with good care. Their lifespan depends on your oral hygiene and your diet. Avoid certain habits like grinding your teeth or chewing ice, which can damage or weaken the restoration. Visit us for regular checkups so we can spot small issues early and fix them before they turn into bigger problems.

You can expect to feel little to no pain during crown or bridge treatment. We numb the area so you stay comfortable while we prepare your tooth and take digital impressions. You may feel some pressure or mild soreness afterward, especially as you get used to your new restoration. This usually fades within a few days.

Caring for a crown or bridge is very similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss around your crown and under your bridge every day to remove plaque and food. We may recommend special floss or small brushes for hard-to-reach areas.

You may be a good candidate for a crown if you have a severely cracked or decayed tooth, or if you've just had a root canal. You may be a good candidate for a bridge if you have one or more missing teeth in a row. You'll also need healthy teeth or implants to support it. During your exam, we will discuss your goals, review your options, and help you choose the best plan for your needs and budget.

Yes, your crown or bridge is designed to blend in with your other teeth. We choose the shade, shape, and size carefully so your restoration looks like it belongs in your smile. Materials such as porcelain or zirconia reflect light much like natural enamel. Once in place, most people will not be able to tell which tooth is restored.

Dental implants act like artificial tooth roots that fuse with your jawbone. After the implant heals, we attach a custom crown or bridge to it. This creates a very stable replacement for missing teeth. Implants help prevent bone loss in your jaw and do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. This means we do not have to reshape healthy teeth to hold a bridge.

Leaving a gap in your smile can cause problems over time. Neighboring teeth may shift into the space, which can change your bite and make cleaning harder. This can raise your risk of decay and gum disease. Missing teeth can also make chewing more difficult, which might lead you to avoid certain foods. Replacing missing teeth with an implant crown or a bridge helps prevent these issues.