Crowns and Bridges

When you have missing tooth, the open space or void can weaken your bite and the surrounding teeth, which may lead to additional tooth loss.  A crown or bridge may be necessary to support your teeth and dental health.

Porcelain Dental Crowns

Dr. Michelle Ireland can improve the strength, appearance and longevity of your smile with a custom-created and properly fitted porcelain dental crown.  The crown serves as a cap over your natural tooth, which has been prepared for the crown placement.

First, any decay or cavities have been removed and treated.  Your tooth is contoured by the dentist and an impression or mold of your tooth and surrounding teeth is made by the dental assistant.  Your dental mold is sent to our dental lab for creation of your customized crown. In some cases, a root canal may be necessary to remove pain to the tooth, which is performed prior to the placement of the permanent crown.

Since the permanent crown will take up to a few weeks to be created, the dentist will place a temporary dental crown until the permanent crown is ready.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a porcelain tooth or teeth permanently attached to your natural teeth and is used to replace one or more missing teeth.  A dental bridge is cemented to provide support to the jaw and adjacent teeth.  Like crowns, bridges are varying materials, including porcelain and metals.

Crowns and bridges are created to match the appearance of your teeth and most crowns and bridges will last for a lifetime.

Like with natural teeth, you can protect your crown and bridge by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.