The Complete Guide to Dental Crowns and Bridges: Restoring Your Smile with Confidence
When it comes to restoring damaged or missing teeth, dental crowns and bridges offer reliable, long-lasting solutions. These common dental prosthetics can transform your smile while improving oral function. At Bender Dental Care, our team specializes in custom-crafted dental crowns and bridges designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. For personalized care, call us at (847) 888-4333 or visit benderdentalcare.com.
Understanding Dental Crowns and Bridges
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover damaged teeth to:
- Restore strength and functionality
- Improve appearance
- Protect weakened teeth
- Cover dental implants
What Are Dental Bridges?
Bridges replace missing teeth by:
- Anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or implants
- Filling the gap left by missing teeth
- Preventing teeth from shifting position
- Restoring chewing ability
When You Might Need Dental Crowns and Bridges
Common Reasons for Crowns
- Severe tooth decay
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- After root canal treatment
- Worn-down teeth
- Cosmetic improvements
Common Reasons for Bridges
- Replacing one or more consecutive missing teeth
- Preventing bite problems
- Maintaining facial structure
- Improving speech affected by missing teeth
The Dental Crowns and Bridges Procedure
Step-by-Step Crown Placement
- Examination and preparation – Your dentist examines the tooth and prepares it for the crown
- Impressions – Precise molds are taken of your teeth
- Temporary crown – A temporary crown protects your tooth
- Custom fabrication – Your permanent crown is crafted
- Final placement – The permanent crown is cemented in place
Step-by-Step Bridge Placement
- Preparation of abutment teeth – Adjacent teeth are prepared to support the bridge
- Impressions – Detailed molds are taken
- Temporary bridge – A temporary bridge protects prepared teeth
- Bridge fabrication – Your custom bridge is created
- Final fitting – The permanent bridge is adjusted and cemented
Types of Dental Crowns and Bridges
Crown Materials
- Porcelain – Most natural appearance
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal – Durable with good aesthetics
- Gold alloys – Exceptional durability
- Zirconia – Strong and tooth-colored
Bridge Types
- Traditional bridges – Most common type, uses crowns on adjacent teeth
- Cantilever bridges – Used when adjacent teeth are on only one side
- Maryland bridges – Conservative option using wings instead of crowns
- Implant-supported bridges – Most stable option, anchored to dental implants
Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges
Advantages of Crowns
- Protect and strengthen damaged teeth
- Natural-looking results
- Long-lasting solution (10-15 years)
- Improved chewing function
Advantages of Bridges
- Fill gaps from missing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from shifting
- Restore natural smile
- Maintain facial shape
Caring for Your Dental Crowns and Bridges
Daily Maintenance Tips
- Brush twice daily with non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily using special floss threaders for bridges
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash
- Avoid chewing hard foods or ice
Professional Care
- Regular dental check-ups every 6 months
- Professional cleanings to maintain gum health
- Prompt attention to any discomfort or looseness
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Factors Affecting Cost
- Materials used
- Number of teeth involved
- Need for additional procedures
- Geographic location
Typical Price Ranges
- Single crown: $800-$3,000
- Traditional bridge (per unit): $1,000-$3,500
- Implant-supported bridge: $3,000-$15,000
Most dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of the cost after deductible for medically necessary dental crowns and bridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
With proper care, crowns typically last 10-15 years, while bridges last 7-15 years.
Does the procedure hurt?
Modern techniques make the process comfortable with local anesthesia. Some sensitivity is normal afterward.
Can crowns and bridges be whitened?
No, they maintain their original color. Professional cleaning can remove surface stains.
What if my crown or bridge feels loose?
Contact your dentist immediately – this may indicate a problem needing attention.
Why Choose Bender Dental Care for Your Dental Crowns and Bridges?
Our practice offers:
- Advanced digital imaging for precise fittings
- High-quality materials from trusted dental labs
- Experienced, gentle dentists
- Custom treatment plans
- Comfortable, modern facilities
Conclusion
Whether you need to restore a single tooth or several missing teeth, dental crowns and bridges can help you regain a beautiful, functional smile. At Bender Dental Care, we’re committed to providing exceptional care with natural-looking results. Take the first step toward better oral health by calling us at (847) 888-4333 or visiting benderdentalcare.com to schedule your consultation.