A beautiful, healthy smile can make a difference in how you look and feel. However, teeth can become damaged or decayed over time, resulting in gaps or a smile you feel self-conscious about. Modern dentistry offers solutions to restore your teeth and revitalize your smile. Crown and bridge treatments are two common procedures that can repair and replace teeth affected by decay, fractures, wear and tear, or trauma. Learn how crowns and bridges can help you get your smile back!

 

What are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to protect it and restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth down to the gum line.

Crowns are recommended for teeth that are:

  • Fractured or severely damaged
  • Heavily filled and weak
  • Discolored or misshapen
  • Used as bridge abutments
  • Needing extra support due to root canal treatment


The crown protects the vulnerable tooth, provides stability, and allows you to chew and function normally. With proper care, crowns can last 10-15 years or longer.

 

Restoring Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges

A dental bridge fills in the gap left by one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of false teeth (pontics) anchored on each side by a crown cemented onto abutment teeth. The abutment teeth provide support and stability for the bridge.

Bridges are an excellent way to:

  • Replace missing teeth without disturbing adjacent healthy teeth
  • Prevent tooth rotation or shifting into the empty space
  • Restore your bite and ability to chew properly
  • Improve speech affected by missing teeth
  • Restore the natural shape of your smile

 

The Dental Crown and Bridge Process

Getting a crown or bridge is a multi-step process involving more than one dental visit:

  • Initial exam and x-rays – Determine if you are a candidate
  • Tooth/teeth preparation – Filing down damaged teeth for crowns; prepping abutment teeth
  • Temporary crown or bridge – Protects prepared teeth between visits
  • Impressions – Molds of the teeth are sent to a lab
  • Crown/bridge fabrication – Custom-made based on tooth shade
  • Permanent placement – Temporary crown/bridge removed, permanent one bonded

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, crowns and bridges can endure for many years. To extend their longevity, refrain from chewing hard foods, grinding your teeth, and clenching your jaw.

 

Consult with Your Dentist

If you have damaged, worn, or missing teeth, schedule a dental exam at SD Family Dentistry. Our dentists can evaluate your smile and recommend solutions to restore functionality and aesthetic appeal. With customized crowns and bridge treatments, you can reinforce weak teeth, replace missing ones, and regain a beautiful, confident smile.

Book your appointment today!