Transform Your Smile with Dental Crowns and Bridges
At Chris Childs Dentistry, we specialize in custom crowns and bridges that restore both the function and appearance of your smile. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth or missing teeth, our high-quality restorations are designed to provide lasting comfort and confidence.
Dental Bridges
With as much as we’re all “on the go” these days, life’s moments can happen. Whether biting down on a piece of candy and breaking a tooth, or losing part of a tooth to a physical injury, you never want your smile to be without. When a piece, no matter the size, of a tooth is missing, it can throw off your whole bite as well as have an adverse impact on your ability to eat. That’s where bridges come in to play.
As a tool that “looks” natural in your mouth, bridges allow us to repair and restore the contour of your teeth. When we install a bridge, we will attach it to other teeth; they can be permanent or semi-permanent. The main difference is that you can remove a semi-permanent bridge to clean it, whereas only a dentist can remove a permanent device. Typically, strong metals (like gold or porcelain) make up the construction of a bridge.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, also called “caps,” are devices placed on top of a tooth and are typically utilized in situations where tooth functionality needs to be restored. After a root canal, or in an instance where there is excessive tooth damage, we will create a crown to restore comfort to your tooth. Furthermore, crowns can be used when a filling is degrading, when we are trying to prevent a bad situation with a tooth from getting worse, or simply when we need to cover a tooth for aesthetic purposes.
What to Expect: Bridge & Crown Procedure
Crowns are custom made to fit your tooth; this is done by taking an impression to generate the crown. Temporary crowns can be used when circumstances dictate, but a permanent crown is the final piece of the puzzle and is cemented in place.
Crowns vs. Veneers:
It’s important to note that crowns cover the entire tooth, while veneers only cover the front surface for minor cosmetic adjustments. If you’re unsure which option is best for you, we can help guide you toward the right solution.
Dealing with a Broken, Loose, or Missing Crown
The mouth is one of the most sensitive parts of our body. We know it, inside and out, and when something is out of place, it’s easily recognized. Should you feel a crown has become dislodged, is lost or cracked, don’t panic. Unless it is jagged and is causing problems, you’re typically not in an emergency situation. If there is still a portion of your tooth under the crown, you could feel sensitivity to heat, cold and air. In any instance, you should request an appointment with our office as soon as possible to have it fixed. While crowns are very strong, they can be damaged in some cases, such as if you bit down on something extremely hard, like ice or popcorn kernels.
We offer same day crowns and ceramic crowns (also commonly called CERAC).
If you are having problems with your teeth, and would like an opinion from a professional dentist regarding the need for crowns or bridges, contact our office to schedule a visit today. We can be reached at 770-536-0581.
FAQs
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. A dental bridge, on the other hand, is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the surrounding natural teeth or implants.
You may need a dental crown if you have:
- A tooth that is severely decayed or weakened
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A large filling that needs extra support
- A tooth that has undergone a root canal
- A desire to improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10–15 years or longer, while dental bridges typically last 5–15 years. Their longevity depends on oral hygiene, diet, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects.
The procedure itself is not painful, as the dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area. After the procedure, some mild soreness or sensitivity may occur, but it usually subsides within a few days.
The cost of a dental crown typically ranges from $800–$2,500 per tooth, depending on the material used. Dental bridges can cost between $1,500–$5,000, depending on the number of teeth being replaced. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost.
To extend the life of your crown or bridge, follow these tips:
- Brush and floss daily, especially around the base of the crown or bridge.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage the restoration.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
- If you grind your teeth at night, consider a custom mouthguard.
Schedule a Consultation for Crowns and Bridges in Gainesville, Georgia
Don’t let a missing or damaged tooth hold you back! At Chris Childs Dentistry, your trusted local dentist in Gainesville, Georgia, we provide expert care, gentle dentistry, and customized dental solutions to restore both the function and beauty of your smile. Our compassionate team prioritizes your comfort, ensuring a stress-free, pain-free experience whether you’re receiving a crown, bridge, or any other dental treatment.
Schedule your consultation today—call us at 770-536-0581 or request an appointment online to take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile!