Crowns, Bridges, and Veneers
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, we can help you choose the best solution. Crowns and bridges are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics that function and look like natural, healthy teeth. Veneers are a less invasive alternative, but may only be a solution for those with slight tooth damage or discoloration. These thin porcelain or resin shells come in customizable colors and are bonded to the surface of your teeth.
Crowns
A crown, otherwise known as a cap, is custom-fitted to your bite and is placed over your natural tooth or dental implant. This procedure is recommended when the damage or decay to a tooth is too large for a filling.
Procedure:
The damage or decay from the specified tooth is removed and the tooth is shaped
An impression is taken of the reduced tooth and your bite
The color of your tooth is matched to a specific porcelain or ceramic shade
A temporary crown is made and fitted to your tooth. Your impression is sent to a dental laboratory
In approximately two weeks, you return for your permanent crown to be cemented
Bridges
A bridge is a permanent dental restoration that is used to replace a missing tooth (or several teeth) by joining an artificial porcelain or ceramic tooth to adjacent teeth or an implant.
Types of Bridges:
Traditional — Caps are bonded over teeth that lie on either side of the missing one
Cantilever — Cap is bonded over a single tooth next to the missing one
Resin-bonded — Porcelain or plastic teeth with gums that are supported by metal “wings”
Veneers
If you’re looking to cosmetically correct or enhance the appearance of one or more teeth, we suggest veneers. They are very thin, porcelain or resin shells that you can customize in color and shape. They are non-invasive and are resistant to future stains.
Common uses for veneers:
Chipped or broken teeth
Misshapen or irregular teeth
Teeth that do not respond to traditional whitening treatments
Smile makeover