Dental Crowns & Bridges

What Are Crowns & Bridges?

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a prosthetic tooth made of ceramic, metal, porcelain, or a combination of materials permanently cemented on top of your natural tooth after it has been reshaped. The crown serves as a protective cap, covering and strengthening a weak or damaged tooth and preventing it from affecting the health of surrounding teeth.

The primary purpose of a crown is to restore the anatomy and function of teeth, but it can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of your smile. Dental crowns can be a great solution to achieve your dental aesthetic goals if you have discolored teeth, broken teeth, or lost teeth.

Dental crowns can be made of several different materials: ceramic, metal, porcelain, or a combination. The choice of material depends on preference and individual oral health requirements.

For example, ceramic or porcelain crowns are ideal for front teeth because they resemble natural teeth and do not show any dark metal. Some patients prefer ceramic-on-metal dental crowns because they offer durability only possible with precious or semi-precious metals.

If you have a damaged tooth and need dental crowns in Indianapolis, visit our office today. We provide same day crowns and other treatment options to help you restore your oral health.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge supported by crowns anchored to the surrounding teeth replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of fitting an artificial tooth, or pontic, between two crowns, which function like anchors to hold the artificial tooth into place. A dental bridge is generally used as a permanent, non-removable way to replace missing teeth and enhance your smile. 

Modern dentistry provides a range of dental bridges to choose from, and the type of bridge you and your dentist select will depend on your oral health needs and personal preference. Dental bridges can be crafted from various materials such as metal, durable tooth-colored porcelain, or composite materials.

Individuals with a cracked or broken tooth may encounter challenges, such as low self-confidence and alterations in facial shape and bite. In addition to an increased risk of gum disorders and tooth decay, missing teeth can also cause strain on adjacent teeth.

If you are in Indianapolis or the surrounding areas and need dental work to address broken teeth or missing teeth, our dental practice can help. We offer adequate dental crown and dental bridge solutions to restore cracked teeth and replace missing teeth. Whether you need a tooth bridge or a dental crown procedure, we can provide the care you need to improve your dental health.

FAQs: Dental Bridge & Dental Crown

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the process for getting a crown or bridge for broken or missing teeth?

When installing dental crowns and dental bridges, it is prudent to work with an experienced dentist who understands how to complete the procedure to provide lifelike and natural results. Close communication between the dentist and the dental laboratory fabricating your restoration is critical to ensure that your crown or bridge fits properly and looks fantastic.

The process for installing a dental crown or dental bridge is similar. Before embarking on the procedure, an impression of your teeth is taken to facilitate the creation of the new crown or bridge in a dental lab.

Shortly after, the dentist will numb the area to ensure no discomfort. Once the patient's mouth is fully numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by shaping and removing enamel from the abutment teeth to allow space for a dental crown or dental bridge to be placed after it returns from the lab.

Next, the tooth is cleaned, and a temporary crown or bridge  is secured to protect the teeth and gums until the permanent fixture is ready for placement. Usually, a patient wears the temporary crown or bridge for about two weeks while the permanent one is created in the lab. Patients must be careful during this time to avoid damaging the temporary by eating the right food and brushing and flossing their natural teeth properly.

What is the average time it takes to get a crown or bridge?

Clarity Dentisty offers same-day crowns that are completed in one visit. Other crowns or traditional bridges that are sent to the lab typically take about two weeks from start to finish.

At the initial visit with your dentist, the tooth or teeth are prepared, and impressions are taken. The office will then submit the necessary documentation and any impressions, prescriptions, or images to the lab.

What if the crown or bridge does not fit?

At the delivery appointment, the dentist will check for a proper fit of the crown or bridge to ensure that the prosthetic tooth meets the patient's specifications and sits nicely. Typically, minor to moderate adjustments to the crown or bridge may be necessary to ensure the bite is balanced and that the margins from the gumline are within a specific range.

What if the crown or bridge does not look right?

At the delivery appointment, the dentist will also check the shade, size, and shape of the new crown or new bridge to ensure it meets the specifications of the patient's mouth and looks aesthetically pleasing.

If a dentist finds that a dental crown or bridge does not look the same as the other teeth, the case is sent back to the lab to be adjusted until it meets our high cosmetic standards.

What are common types of dental crowns?

Typically, the dental crowns we provide patients are made of porcelain, which is super strong and looks just like your natural tooth. However, depending on your particular case, we may use other crown materials such as ceramic, zirconia, composite resin, metal, or a combination of materials.

What are common types of dental bridges?

There are several types of dental bridges. 

  • Traditional Bridge: To receive a traditional bridge, typically made out of porcelain or ceramic fused to metal, the patient must have natural teeth on both sides of the gap to function as anchor teeth.
  • Cantilever Bridge: This type of bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but only needs one anchor tooth instead of two.
  • Maryland Bridge: Similar to a traditional bridge, except for dental crowns to connect to abutment teeth, a structure made of metal, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal adheres to the backs of natural teeth.
  • Implant-Supported Bridge: An implant-supported dental bridge is widely regarded as the strongest and sturdiest type. The process of installing this type of bridge usually involves two surgical procedures. Firstly, the dental implants are implanted into the jawbone. Secondly, the bridge is placed onto the implants.

Why choose Clarity Dentistry as the best home for dental crowns and bridges in Indianapolis?

Clarity Dentistry in Indianapolis stands out as an exceptional choice for dental crowns and bridges for several reasons:
Expertise and Experience:
Clarity Dentistry boasts a team of highly skilled and experienced dental professionals who specialize in restorative dentistry, including dental crowns and bridges. They have a proven track record of delivering excellent results and providing top-notch dental care to their patients.
Comprehensive Treatment Approach:
The Clarity Dentistry dental team takes a comprehensive approach to dental care. They consider their patients' overall oral health and customize treatment plans to address individual needs. This ensures that dental crowns and dental bridges are integrated seamlessly with the patient's existing teeth and bite, resulting in optimal comfort and aesthetics.
High-Quality Materials:
Clarity Dentistry uses only high-quality materials for their dental crowns and dental bridges. They understand the importance of using durable and natural-looking materials to ensure long-lasting results. They select the best option to match the patient's unique needs and preferences, whether it is porcelain, ceramic, or other advanced materials.
State-Of-The-Art Technology:
Clarity Dentistry stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental technology. Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and techniques can provide precise and efficient treatment, including designing and fabricating dental crowns and dental bridges. This allows for excellent fit, improved aesthetics, and reduced treatment time.
Patient-Centered Care:
At Clarity Dentistry, patient satisfaction and comfort are paramount. The entire team is dedicated to providing a friendly and welcoming environment where patients feel at ease throughout their treatment. They take the time to listen to patients' concerns, answer questions, and explain procedures, ensuring a positive dental experience.

Customized Treatment Plans:
Clarity Dentistry recognizes that every patient has unique dental needs and goals. They take a personalized treatment approach, tailoring a patient's dental crown or bridge procedure to suit individual circumstances. Whether a single crown or a complete mouth restoration, they create customized treatment plans that address each patient's oral health objectives.

Positive Reputation:
Clarity Dentistry has earned a stellar reputation among patients in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. They have built a strong foundation of trust through their commitment to delivering exceptional dental care and consistently exceeding patient expectations.

Today Is the Day to Choose Clarity Dentistry!

At Clarity Dentistry, we deliver dental bridges, same-day dental crowns, dental implants, and other proper dental care to achieve optimum oral health and a natural look for your teeth.

We offer a comprehensive range of dental services to cater to all your dental needs. From dental bridges to replace missing teeth to dental implants for a more permanent solution, our team will assist you through the process and help you make informed decisions about your oral health.

We are committed to providing you with outstanding dental care you can trust. Our services include same-day crowns, dental implants, comprehensive dental exams, and a dedication to natural aesthetics. Our compassionate team ensures safety and effectiveness while delivering the best possible results.

Choose Clarity Dentistry for optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. Take the first step toward achieving a healthy and more confident you.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Patient Testimonials

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Dr. Bowen was very thorough in explaining what why I was having the pain I was having in my mouth. April was also very helpful as well! I really like how professional they were. Even though I found out I need to have some work done everything they said as to why made sense. I would definitely recommend going there!
Patient Reviewer for Clarity Dentistry Danielle Storm
Danielle Storm
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I am always very well taken care of at Clarity Dentistry. Everyone is always very friendly, listens to my concerns with empathy, and actually treats me like a human being rather than someone to get money out of. I can honestly say this is the most clean, professional, and best dental experience in my life.
Patient Reviewer for Clarity Dentistry David Morris
David Morris
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My four year old has been to two pediatric dentists that have him a huge fear of the dentist. Dr. Bowen and the hygienist that worked with my son were gentle and did everything possible to make him comfortable. If you or your kiddo are anxious about the dentist you should absolutely check out Clarity.
Patient Reviewer for Clarity Dentistry Samantha Apollo
Samantha Apollo

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