Dental Crowns & Bridges

St. Joseph, Michigan

Dental crowns and bridges are two solutions we offer to restore damaged or missing teeth to their natural form and function. At Michigan Coast Dental, we utilize state-of-the-art technology, cutting-edge techniques, and the best materials available to deliver high-quality, aesthetic restorations in a relaxing, comfortable environment. You can count on our team for outstanding, gentle care.

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What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a restoration that encases a damaged tooth's entire visible structure, restoring its strength and integrity. Once in place, a crown should look, feel, and function like a perfectly natural tooth.

At Michigan Coast Dental, we offer dental crowns in various materials, including porcelain fused to metal and metal-free zirconia. The choice of crown material will depend on what's best for each patient in a particular situation. Ultimately, our goal is to restore functional teeth and a healthy, seamless smile.

Why Would You Require a Dental Crown?

A dental crown may be your best option for the following purposes:

Repairing a tooth with extensive damage and insufficient structure remaining to support a dental filling.
Covering a weak, damaged, or broken tooth, strengthening it, and fortifying its structure.
Relieving pain and discomfort resulting from a cracked tooth, a condition known as "cracked tooth syndrome."
Restoring the health and appearance of a tooth worn down due to grinding and clenching, a condition known as bruxism.
Strengthening a tooth after root canal therapy and restoring its natural form and function.
Replacing a missing tooth by supporting a dental bridge or covering a dental implant.
Improving the appearance of a tooth by correcting its shape, size, color, alignment, or overall appearance.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed alternative to a removable partial denture designed to replace one or more missing teeth when there are healthy existing teeth or implants on either side of the gap. The adjacent teeth, known as retainers, are typically covered by dental crowns to support replacement teeth known as pontics, literally "bridging" the gap. Bridges are made of the same aesthetic materials as dental crowns, delivering incredibly natural-looking results.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge offers a quick and affordable way to replace one or more missing teeth. Your restoration will improve your chewing function, make it easier to speak clearly, and will maintain your face's natural shape.

Leaving a gap in your smile may result in the neighboring teeth shifting or tilting, potentially leading to crooked teeth or a crowded mouth. Moreover, the imbalance created by missing one or more natural teeth can lead to gum disease and problems with the bite. A dental bridge will safeguard your oral health and enhance the appearance of your smile.

What Should You Expect During the Dental Crown or Bridge Procedure?

The procedure may differ depending on the material used and your unique needs. However, we typically start by administering local anesthesia to numb the area. Next is reshaping your teeth and making an impression that our dental laboratory will use to fabricate your dental crown or bridge. We will fit you with a temporary restoration until your permanent crown or bridge is ready for placement.