drtopping@drtopping.com
Crowns and Bridges at Topping Dental
Restore Your Smile with Crowns and Bridges
At Topping Dental Group, we understand the importance of a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re dealing with damaged, weakened, or missing teeth, our expert team is here to help with custom crowns and bridges. These dental restorations are designed to renew the function, appearance, and strength of your teeth, helping you feel confident about your smile again.
What Are Crowns and Bridges?
Crowns and bridges are two common dental solutions used to repair or replace teeth:
- Crowns: A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically used after procedures like root canals or to cover large fillings and broken teeth.
- Bridges: A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) between two crowns, which are placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap. This “bridges” the space, restoring your smile and bite.
Why Choose Crowns and Bridges?
Natural Appearance
These restorations are custom-made to match the color and shape of your actual teeth, ensuring a seamless, natural look.
Improved Function
Crowns strengthen weak teeth, while bridges restore your ability to chew and speak clearly by filling in gaps.
Durability
With proper care, crowns and bridges can last for many years, providing a long-lasting solution to dental issues.
Prevent Further Problems
Bridges prevent surrounding teeth from shifting into the gap left by missing teeth, which can lead to bite problems and further dental complications.
Are Crowns and Bridges Right For You?
You might be a candidate for crowns and bridges if you:
- Have a tooth that is too damaged to be repaired with a filling
- Have had a root canal and need to protect the treated tooth
- Are missing one or more teeth and want a fixed, non-removable solution
- Want to improve the appearance and function of your teeth without implants or dentures
Let’s explore more about crowns and bridges to help you choose the best solution for your smile.
How Do Crowns and Bridges Work?
Both crowns and bridges are custom-made for each patient, ensuring a perfect fit and natural look.
Crowns
Custom Crown
After preparing the damaged tooth by removing decay and shaping it, we take an impression to create a custom crown.
Durable Materials
The crown is made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal and is designed to match your natural teeth.
Secure Bonding
Once it’s ready, the crown is placed over your tooth and securely bonded, protecting it and restoring its function.
Bridges
Bridge Preparation
For a bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap are prepared for crowns.
Pontic Placement
A false tooth (called a pontic) is created to fit between these crowns, completing the bridge.
Permanent Restoration
The crowns and pontic are permanently bonded in place, filling the gap and restoring the look and function of your smile.
Schedule Your Consultation At Any Of Our Topping Dental Group Locations Today
Ready to enhance your smile with dental bonding? Contact Topping Dental Group today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident smile!
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our orthodontic services can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
Call Topping Dental Group Nappanee Dentistry: (574) 773-9700
Call Topping Dental Group Elkhart Dentistry: (574) 848-7487
Call Topping Dental Group Middlebury Dentistry: (574) 825-1252
Meet Our Experienced Team
Our skilled team is dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. With years of experience and a passion for personalized care, our dentists work closely with you to create tailored treatment plans that meet your unique needs.
Looking for the Best Dentist in Elkhart County? Choose From Any of Our Three Topping Dental Group Locations:
Frequently Asked Questions About Crowns and Bridges
How long do crowns and bridges last?
With proper care, crowns and bridges can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding habits like grinding your teeth can help extend the life of your restorations.
Is the procedure for crowns or bridges painful?
No, the procedure is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring your comfort during treatment. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity afterward, but this usually subsides within a few days.
How do I care for crowns and bridges?
Caring for crowns and bridges is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss daily, and pay special attention to cleaning around the bridge to prevent plaque buildup. Regular dental visits are essential to ensure the health of your teeth and the longevity of your restoration.
Can crowns or bridges be replaced if they get damaged?
Yes, crowns and bridges can be replaced if they become damaged or worn over time. If you notice any issues, such as discomfort or loosening, it’s important to schedule a dental visit as soon as possible to evaluate the restoration and discuss replacement options.
Are crowns and bridges covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans partially cover crowns and bridges, especially if they are considered necessary for the restoration of function rather than purely cosmetic reasons. Coverage varies, so it’s best to check with your provider for details on your specific plan.
How long does it take to get a crown or bridge?
The process typically takes two appointments. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth and take impressions, and during the second visit, the custom crown or bridge will be fitted and cemented into place. Temporary crowns or bridges are often provided between appointments to protect the prepared area.
What materials are crowns and bridges made from?
Crowns and bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. Porcelain and ceramic are popular choices for their natural, tooth-like appearance, while metal alloys are known for their durability, especially for back teeth.
Can I eat normally with a crown or bridge?
Yes, once your crown or bridge is securely in place, you’ll be able to eat and chew normally. However, it’s best to avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage the restoration.
What are the risks of getting a crown or bridge?
Crowns and bridges are very safe procedures, but as with any dental treatment, there is a small risk of complications such as sensitivity, discomfort, or infection if proper care is not taken. It’s important to follow your dentist’s advice for aftercare and maintain regular dental visits.
Can a crown or bridge fall out?
While rare, a crown or bridge can become loose or dislodged if the cement weakens or if the underlying tooth structure changes. If this happens, contact your dentist right away to have the restoration repaired or replaced.
Our Most Popular Primary Dental Services
Dental Cleaning
A dental cleaning is a professional cleaning you receive from a dentist or dental hygienist. Most dental cleanings take only between 25 and 30 minutes.
Learn More About Dental Cleaning
Wisdom Tooth Removal
A wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively routine procedure. The dentist will numb the area in your mouth with local anesthesia or use IV sedation so you are asleep during the procedure.
Learn More About Wisdom Teeth
Crowns & Bridges
Crowns and bridges are used to restore and enhance teeth that are damaged, or to take the place of missing teeth.
Learn More About Crowns & Bridges
Fillings
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. A filling also helps prevent further decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria can enter.
Learn More About Fillings
TMJ Treatments
TMJ stands for temporal-mandibular joint. Temporal, as in temple area of skull; mandibular as in mandible, or lower jaw; joint as in it’s where the head and jaw meet.
Problems in this joint may be caused by a misalignment of the teeth, trauma, or excess muscle tension.
Learn More About TMJ Treatments
Tooth Extractions
Good oral hygiene should always be practiced since the loss of a single tooth can have major impact upon your oral health and appearance. Although dentists will use every measure to prevent tooth loss, there are still some occasions when a tooth may need to be extracted.
Learn More About Tooth Extractions
Dental Service Categories
Contact Us today!
Topping Dental Group is here to assist each and every patient with the very best dental care. Our office has a small town, neighborly atmosphere that will immediately put you at ease.
