Crowns & Bridges
Custom Crowns & Bridges for Healthier Smiles in Glendale, WI
Do you have damaged or missing teeth? If so, you know just how much they can impact your confidence and overall oral health. Without a full mouth of healthy teeth, simple activities like chewing or speaking can become uncomfortable. Fortunately, Modern Touch Dental Glendale can help you smile confidently again with dental crowns and bridges. These restorations are the most common and trusted ways to repair and replace teeth. Learn more about this treatment from our Glendale, WI team.
What Are Crowns and Bridges?
Dental crowns and bridges are often discussed together because they are both fixed prosthetic devices that we cement onto existing teeth. However, they serve different purposes. Here’s an overview of these similar, yet distinct, restorations:
- Dental Crowns—Often called “caps,” crowns are custom-fitted coverings that encase an entire tooth. They’re meant to restore a tooth’s original shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are usually used when a tooth is significantly damaged by decay, has a large filling, or is cracked.
- Dental Bridges—A dental bridge helps treat multiple missing teeth in a row. Essentially, they “bridge the gap” between natural teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth held in place by crowns attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap.
How You Can Benefit From Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental caps and bridges are popular in restorative dentistry for a reason. They bring significant advantages for your oral health and quality of life. Check out these benefits:
- Better Function—Both treatments allow you to chew and speak with comfort and confidence again.
- Improved Appearance—Crowns and bridges are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth—most people won’t even notice them!
- Durability—With proper care, crowns and bridges can last many years.
- Maintained Facial Structure—Replacing missing teeth helps preserve your natural face shape and prevents the sunken look that often stems from tooth loss.
When Should You Consider Crowns or Bridges?
Your dentist at our Glendale office will let you know if we believe you can benefit from a crown or bridge. We might recommend these solutions in the following circumstances:
- Crowns—Best for fixing teeth that are severely worn, cracked, discolored, or misshapen. They’re also used during the dental implant procedure.
- Bridges—Recommended for patients who are missing several consecutive teeth and have healthy, strong teeth on either side of the gap.
How This Restoration Technique Works
If you’ve never gotten dental caps or bridges before, you likely have questions about how the process works. While every patient is different, the procedure goes something like this:
- Initial Consultation—We always start with a thorough examination to understand your oral health and goals. During this time, we’ll decide whether a crown or a bridge is best for you.
- Preparing the Teeth—Next, we’ll take steps to prepare your teeth for the procedure, like reshaping the affected or surrounding teeth. Then, we’ll take an impression of your teeth that will be used to create a custom crown or bridge.
- Final Placement—Once your custom crown or bridge is ready, you will return for your final appointment. We will place the new restoration, check the fit, and make adjustments as necessary.
How Long Do Caps on Teeth Last?
If you keep up with proper care, dental caps and bridges can last for many years—often 15 years or longer. To maximize their lifespan, make sure to:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily, especially around the crown or bridge
- Use a floss threader or interdental brush to clean underneath a bridge.
- Attend dental check-ups and cleanings every six months
- Avoid chewing on hard foods that could damage your restorations
Why Choose Modern Touch Dental Glendale?
At Modern Touch Dental Glendale, we’re committed to bringing exceptional care to our patients. The team here has years of experience providing personalized care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. We take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to create a smile you can be proud of. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment at our Glendale office.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crowns and Bridges
What is the difference between crowns and bridges?
Crowns and bridges have similar purposes, but crowns typically only cover and protect a single tooth. A bridge, on the other hand, replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the adjacent natural teeth.
How long does the process of getting crowns or bridges take?
We can typically place your final crown or bridge after just two appointments. Your first visit includes your consultation and impressions, and your second is for placing permanent bridges or ceramic teeth caps. Expect to wait a few weeks between the appointments.
Are crowns and bridges covered by dental insurance?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial or full coverage for crowns and bridges. However, you should always read your policy thoroughly or call your provider to be sure.
Does getting a crown or bridge hurt?
Most patients feel minimal discomfort during this procedure. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal, but this typically subsides quickly.