Crowns & Bridges
Crowns & Bridges
Crowns and bridges are common dental restorations used to treat damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. A crown is a dental cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. A bridge, on the other hand, is a dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring onto neighboring teeth or dental implants.
Crowns:
When is a crown needed? A crown may be needed to restore a tooth that has been severely damaged or decayed, to protect a weakened tooth from further damage, or to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.
How is a crown placed? The tooth is first prepared by removing any decay or damage, and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression of the prepared tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory to create the crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented onto the tooth.
How long do crowns last? Crowns can last for many years, depending on the materials used and how well they are cared for. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, a crown can last for 10-15 years or even longer.
What are the types of crowns? Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, resin, or metal alloys. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are often preferred for their natural appearance, while metal crowns are stronger and more durable.
Bridges:
When is a bridge needed? A bridge may be needed to replace one or more missing teeth, to restore the ability to chew and speak properly, and to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting or tilting out of position.
How is a bridge placed? The neighboring teeth on either side of the gap are first prepared by removing a portion of their enamel. An impression of the prepared teeth and the gap is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory to create the bridge. In the meantime, a temporary bridge is placed over the prepared teeth. Once the permanent bridge is ready, it is cemented onto the prepared teeth.
How long do bridges last? Bridges can last for many years, depending on the materials used and how well they are cared for. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, a bridge can last for 5-15 years or even longer.
What are the types of bridges? Bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, resin, or metal alloys. The most common type of bridge is a traditional bridge, which is anchored onto neighboring teeth using dental crowns. Another type of bridge is a cantilever bridge, which is anchored onto only one neighboring tooth. In some cases, a bridge may be supported by dental implants instead of neighboring teeth.
The cost of a crown or bridge can vary depending on what materials are used, what procedures are needed, and where you're located. They can range from $700-$1500 per tooth. Dental insurance may cover some of the procedures involved, depending on the specific treatments needed, if it's deemed medically necessary or cosmetic, and the coverage provided by the insurance plan. However, it's important to note that cosmetic dentistry procedures are often not covered by dental insurance since they are considered elective and not medically necessary. In such cases, patients may need to pay for these procedures out of pocket. It's recommended that patients review their dental insurance policy or speak with their insurance provider to determine what is covered and what is not. Patients may also want to discuss their options for financing with us, such as third-party financing options, to help cover the cost of crowns and bridges.
Find a reputable dentist, consult with the doctor, and discuss your treatment plan and all associated costs. A benefit of choosing 1st Choice Dental Centers for your crown or bridge is that we offer most, if not all, of the services needed to achieve your ideal smile under one roof!
If you're interested in either a crown or bridge, please give us a call at 678-293-8773 to discuss your options today!