Dental Crowns and Bridges in Chesapeake

At Smiles of Chesapeake, we understand that your smile is important to you. That's why we offer a wide range of dental services, including crowns and bridges. Crowns are used to restore cracked or damaged teeth, while bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Both procedures are performed by our experienced dentist in Smiles of Chesapeake. Once the crown or bridge is in place, you'll be able to smile with confidence, knowing that your teeth are looking their best.

Are Dental Crowns and Bridges important?

At Smiles of Chesapeake,  we understand the importance of maintaining good oral health. That's why we offer dental crowns and bridges as part of our comprehensive dental care services.

Dental crowns are important for several reasons. First, they can help to protect a tooth that has been damaged or is at risk of damage. For example, a tooth that has been cracked or chipped may be more likely to suffer further damage without a dental crown in place. In addition, dental crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen or discolored. By covering the entire surface of the tooth, a dental crown can provide a more polished look. Finally, dental crowns can also be used to support a dental bridge. A dental bridge is typically used to replace one or more missing teeth. The dental crowns on either side of the bridge serve as anchors, holding the bridge in place and restoring chewing function

So if you're considering getting dental crowns or bridges, be sure to consult with your dentist in Chesapeake to see if they're right for you.

‍At Smiles of Chesapeake, we understand that your smile is important to you. That's why we offer a wide range of dental services, including crowns and bridges. Crowns are used to restore cracked or damaged teeth, while bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Both procedures are performed by our experienced dentist in Smiles of Chesapeake. Once the crown or bridge is in place, you'll be able to smile with confidence, knowing that your teeth are looking their best.

What is a Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that is placed over a tooth to cover the tooth, restore its shape, size, strength, and improve its appearance. The crown, when cemented into place, fully encases the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. Here are some key points about dental crowns:

Purposes of Dental Crowns

  1. Protecting a Weak Tooth: To protect a weak tooth from breaking or to hold together parts of a cracked tooth.
  2. Restoring a Broken Tooth: To restore an already broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely worn down.
  3. Covering and Supporting a Tooth with a Large Filling: When there isn't a lot of tooth left.
  4. Holding a Dental Bridge in Place: Crowns can be used to anchor a dental bridge.
  5. Covering Misshaped or Severely Discolored Teeth: To improve appearance.
  6. Covering a Dental Implant: Crowns are placed over implants to replace missing teeth.
  7. Cosmetic Modification: To enhance the appearance of a smile.

Procedure for Getting a Crown

  1. Tooth Preparation: The dentist will prepare the tooth by removing a layer of the outer structure to make room for the crown.
  2. Impressions: An impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth is made to ensure the crown will fit properly.
  3. Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
  4. Fitting the Permanent Crown: Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is adjusted for proper fit and bite.
  5. Cementing the Crown: The permanent crown is then cemented onto the prepared tooth.

Care for Dental Crowns

  • Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
  • Avoid chewing hard foods or objects to prevent damage to the crown.
  • Regular dental check-ups to ensure the crown and surrounding teeth are in good condition.

Crowns are an essential component in restorative dentistry, helping to preserve the functionality and aesthetics of teeth that have been compromised by damage or decay.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap where the teeth are missing. It is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (these two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth) and a false tooth/teeth in between (these false teeth are called pontics). These pontics can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

  • Restoration of Smile and Functionality: Bridges help restore your smile and the ability to properly chew and speak.
  • Maintaining Facial Structure: Prevents remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
  • Distribution of Bite Forces: Evenly distributes the forces in your bite by replacing missing teeth.
  • Preventing Teeth from Shifting: Helps maintain the position of your existing teeth.  

 Dental bridges are a long-standing solution for replacing missing teeth and can last many years with proper care. They help restore the function and aesthetics of a person’s dental structure, contributing significantly to overall oral health.