Dental Crowns and Bridges

Dental Crowns and Bridges

Bridges are natural-looking dental appliances that can replace a section of missing teeth. Because they are custom-made, bridges are barely noticeable. They can restore the natural contour of teeth and the proper bite relationship between upper and lower teeth.


Bridges are sometimes called fixed partial dentures because they are semi-permanent and bonded to existing teeth or implants. There are several types of fixed dental bridges (which cannot be removed), including conventional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges, and resin-bonded bridges. Unlike a removable bridge, which you can remove and clean, your dentist can only remove a fixed bridge.


Porcelain, gold alloys, or combinations of materials are usually used to make bridge appliances.


Appliances called implant bridges are attached to an area below the gum tissue or the bone.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Crowns are synthetic caps, usually made of a material like porcelain, placed on the top of a tooth.


Crowns typically restore a tooth's function and appearance following a restorative procedure such as a root canal. When decay in a tooth has become so advanced that large portions of the tooth must be removed, crowns are often used to restore the tooth.


Crowns are also used to attach bridges, cover implants, and prevent a cracked tooth from worsening or an existing filling is in jeopardy of becoming loose or dislocated. Crowns also serve an aesthetic use and are applied when a discolored or stained tooth needs to be restored to its natural appearance.

Procedures for Dental Crowns and Bridges

A tooth must usually be reduced in size to accommodate a crown. An impression is then made from the existing tooth to create a custom-designed crown. The image is sent to a special lab, which manufactures a custom-designed crown. Sometimes, a temporary crown is applied until the permanent crown is ready. Permanent crowns are cemented in place.


Crowns are sometimes confused with veneers, but they are pretty different. Veneers are typically applied only to relatively small areas.

Caring For Your Crowns

With proper care, a good quality crown could last up to eight years or longer. Flossing in the crown area is crucial to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris around the restoration.


Certain behaviors, such as jaw clenching or bruxism (teeth grinding), significantly shorten the life of a crown. Moreover, eating brittle foods, ice, or hard candy can compromise the adhesion of the crown or even damage the crown.

Discover The Possibilities

Of Dental Crowns!

Take the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile today. Schedule a consultation with our experienced dental professionals to explore how dental crowns can restore your teeth's strength, function, and aesthetics.  

Call Us
Share by: