If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, our dentists can help you choose the best solution. Crowns and bridges are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics that function and look like natural, healthy teeth. Veneers are a less invasive alternative, but may only be a solution for those with slight tooth damage or discoloration. These thin porcelain or resin shells come in customizable shades and are bonded to the surface of your teeth.
Crowns
A porcelain crown, otherwise known as a cap, is custom-fit to your bite and is placed over your natural tooth or dental implant. We recommend this procedure for those who have a broken tooth or tooth that has previously had endodontic treatment or large fillings. If tooth is damaged or decayed on the surface, the tooth will be prepped and a porcelain crown will be used to restore tooth structure.
Procedure:
- We will reduce the problematic tooth for a proper crown fit
- An impression will be taken of your bite for crown fabrication
- The shade of porcelain prosthetic can then be customized
- We will fit you with a temporary crown until the lab makes your permanent one
- You will come in again for permanent crown fitting
Bridges
To replace a missing tooth that has neighboring teeth with decay and/or large fillings, or a tooth that has been missing for a long time (i.e., with gum recession around the area), we recommend a bridge as an option.
Veneers
If you’re looking to cosmetically correct or enhance the appearance of one or more teeth, we suggest veneers. They are very thin, porcelain or resin shells that you can customize in color and shape. They are non-invasive and are resistant to future stains.
Common uses for veneers:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Misshapen or irregular teeth
- Teeth that do not respond to traditional whitening treatments