What Are Crowns?
A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, covering it completely from the gumline up. Crowns restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance while protecting what’s left underneath. They’re commonly used after a root canal, to repair a cracked tooth, or to cover a tooth with a large filling that won’t hold up on its own.
Crowns are made from durable materials, like porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of metal and porcelain. We choose the material based on where the tooth is located in your mouth and how much force it needs to withstand. Front teeth typically get all-porcelain crowns for a natural look, while back teeth might benefit from stronger materials designed to handle heavy chewing.
Once a crown is in place, you care for it just like a natural tooth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and keep up with regular dental visits. With good care, most crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer.
What Are Bridges?
A bridge is a dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of two crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or multiple teeth) suspended between them. The crowns anchor the bridge securely in place, and the replacement teeth fill the space left by the missing ones.
Bridges do more than improve your appearance. They restore your ability to chew and speak properly, prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position, and help maintain the shape of your face. When teeth are missing, the surrounding teeth tend to drift into the empty space, which can lead to bite problems and additional tooth loss over time. A bridge keeps everything in its proper place.
Like crowns, bridges are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. The goal is a restoration that blends in seamlessly, so no one can tell the difference.
When You Might Need a Crown or Bridge
Crowns are typically recommended when a tooth is too damaged to support a filling but still has a healthy root. Common reasons for needing a crown include:
- A tooth weakened by a large cavity or previous dental work.
- A cracked or broken tooth that needs reinforcement.
- A tooth that’s been treated with a root canal.
- Severe wear from grinding or clenching.
- A misshapen or discolored tooth that needs cosmetic improvement.
Bridges are the solution when you’re missing one or more teeth and want a fixed restoration rather than a removable denture. They work well for patients who have strong, healthy teeth on either side of the gap and want a permanent option that doesn’t require surgery like dental implants do.
The Process for Getting Crowns & Bridges in Philadelphia
Getting a crown or bridge usually takes two appointments. During the first visit, we prepare the tooth (or teeth) by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the restoration. We then take detailed impressions using a digital scanner, which captures precise measurements without the mess of traditional impression materials.
These impressions go to a dental lab where skilled technicians craft your custom crown or bridge. We’ll also create a temporary restoration to protect your tooth while the permanent one is being made. This temporary crown or bridge allows you to eat and speak normally while you wait.
At your second appointment, we remove the temporary restoration and check the fit of your permanent crown or bridge. We make any necessary adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable and looks natural, then cement it permanently in place. The result is a restoration that fits well, functions properly, and blends in with your existing teeth.
Caring for Your Crowns and Bridges
Once your crown or bridge is in place, maintaining it is straightforward. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, paying special attention to the area around the restoration. If you have a bridge, you’ll need to clean underneath the false tooth using a floss threader or a special brush designed for that purpose.
Avoid habits that can damage your restoration, like chewing ice, biting your nails, or using your teeth to open packages. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can protect your crown or bridge from excessive wear.
Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor your restoration and catch any potential issues early. We’ll check the fit, look for signs of wear, and make sure your gums stay healthy around the crowned teeth.
Why Choose Professional Care
Crowns & Bridges in Philadelphia require precision, skill, and attention to detail. At Matarazzo and Milici Group of Navy Yard, PA, Dr. Anita Malici and our team use digital scanning and careful planning to ensure your restoration fits correctly and looks natural. We take time during each appointment to answer questions and address concerns, so you’re never left wondering what happens next.
From the initial consultation to the final placement, we focus on making the process clear and comfortable. You’ll know what to expect at each step, and we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and timeline.
Get Started Today
If you’re dealing with a damaged tooth or a gap from a missing tooth, crowns and bridges can restore your smile and make everyday activities easier. At Matarazzo and Milici Group of Navy Yard, PA, we’re here to help. Call us today to schedule a consultation and find out which restoration is right for you.