Crown & Bridge in Glendale, AZ
Crown & Bridge at Smile Science Dental Spa
Embarking on a journey to restore the balance and beauty of your smile? Allow our seasoned professionals at Smile Science Dental Spa to assist you with top-tier Crown and Bridge services. Dr. Dawson and Dr. Turke, with their profound expertise in this field, are committed to restoring the functionality and aesthetics of your smile with precision and care.
Crowns and bridges are not merely restorative solutions; they are the gateway to a renewed sense of confidence and an enhanced quality of life. Our crowns, custom-fabricated for a perfect fit, are designed to cap damaged teeth or implants, fortifying them while also recreating their natural appearance.
Our dental bridges, on the other hand, beautifully fill the void left by one or more missing teeth. By anchoring onto the adjacent teeth, they provide a stable and natural-looking replacement, thereby restoring the harmony of your smile.
At Smile Science Dental Spa, we utilize the latest advancements in technology and the highest quality materials to ensure durable and aesthetically pleasing results. Embrace the journey towards a stronger, more balanced smile today with our expert Crown and Bridge treatments.
Why Choose Smile Science?
- We are in-network with most major insurance
- We offer amazing Membership Plans
- We also offer Payment Plans
- Dr. Dawson and Dr. Turke lead our experienced team
- We use only premium products
- We use cutting-edge technology
- We hold ourselves to the highest standards
- Our office was designed with your comfort in mind
- We offer every level of sedation
See What Our Patients are Saying
Dental Crown & Bridge
Experience a remarkable transformation at our dental clinic in Glendale, Arizona. We specialize in the expert placement of crowns and bridges, ensuring every stage of the procedure is carried out with meticulous attention to detail and with your comfort at the forefront.
Our crown and bridge service is not a one-size-fits-all. We understand that each patient brings unique needs and dental health goals. Thus, we tailor the entire procedure to fit you perfectly, using our in-depth consultation process to devise a personalized treatment plan.
We’ve invested in the latest dental technologies to deliver safe, efficient, and minimally invasive treatment options. Our team is extensively trained and experienced in prosthetic dentistry, offering you the confidence that you’re in competent hands.
Alongside this text, you’ll find a simulation video illustrating a typical crown or bridge placement. We are committed to transparency and patient education, using resources like this video to show how we uphold our commitment to optimal dental care. Don’t let gaps or damaged teeth keep you from enjoying life’s precious moments. Contact us today and embark on your journey to a restored, confident smile.
Dental Crown & Bridge
Experience a remarkable transformation at our dental clinic in Glendale, Arizona. We specialize in the expert placement of crowns and bridges, ensuring every stage of the procedure is carried out with meticulous attention to detail and with your comfort at the forefront.
Our crown and bridge service is not a one-size-fits-all. We understand that each patient brings unique needs and dental health goals. Thus, we tailor the entire procedure to fit you perfectly, using our in-depth consultation process to devise a personalized treatment plan.
We’ve invested in the latest dental technologies to deliver safe, efficient, and minimally invasive treatment options. Our team is extensively trained and experienced in prosthetic dentistry, offering you the confidence that you’re in competent hands.
Alongside this text, you’ll find a simulation video illustrating a typical crown or bridge placement. We are committed to transparency and patient education, using resources like this video to show how we uphold our commitment to optimal dental care. Don’t let gaps or damaged teeth keep you from enjoying life’s precious moments. Contact us today and embark on your journey to a restored, confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between a Crown and a Bridge?
A dental crown and a dental bridge are two different types of restorative dentistry treatments that serve distinct purposes.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that's placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be used for a variety of purposes, including to protect a weak tooth (perhaps from decay or from being cracked), to restore an already broken tooth or a tooth that's been severely worn down, or to cover and support a tooth with a large filling.
On the other hand, a dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. As its name suggests, a bridge spans the gap where the missing teeth once were, "bridging" the gap. A bridge consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (these are called the "abutment teeth") and a false tooth/teeth in between. These false teeth are called pontics and can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials.
In summary, while both crowns and bridges are dental prosthetics and involve the use of crowns, they serve different purposes: a crown is primarily used to repair a damaged tooth, while a bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
Dental crowns and bridges are both types of dental prosthetics used to restore, protect or replace teeth in the mouth.
A dental crown, often called a "cap," is a tooth-shaped cover that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its size, shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used in a variety of situations, such as to protect a weak tooth, to restore a broken or worn down tooth, to cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn't much tooth left, or for cosmetic modifications. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or a full gold crown.
On the other hand, a dental bridge is a device used to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges span the space where the teeth are missing and are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. These teeth, known as abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge, and a replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments.
In short, while both crowns and bridges can be used in conjunction with each other, they serve different purposes. A crown is used to cover a damaged tooth, while a bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Both play an important role in maintaining dental health and helping you keep a beautiful smile.
What is the Process for Getting a Crown or Bridge?
The process of getting a dental crown or bridge typically involves several steps, usually completed over two or more dental appointments.
For a Crown:
1. Examination and Preparation: The dentist will first examine the tooth to ensure it can support a crown, then start the process by numbing the tooth and surrounding tissues. The tooth is then reshaped along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown. If a large area of the tooth is missing (due to decay or damage), the dentist will use filling material to build up the tooth to support the crown.
2. Impression: Once the tooth has been reshaped, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth using a paste or putty. The impression is sent to a dental lab where the crown will be manufactured. If the crown is porcelain, the dentist will also select a shade that closely matches the color of your existing teeth.
3. Temporary Crown: Before you leave this appointment, the dentist will install a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth.
4. Crown Placement: At the second visit (usually two to three weeks later), the dentist will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and color of the permanent crown. If everything is acceptable, the crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth.
For a Bridge:
1. Preparation: This initial stage is similar to the crown process. The dentist prepares the teeth on either side of the gap to serve as abutments. This usually involves recontouring these teeth by removing part of their enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them.
2. Impression: Next, the dentist will make impressions of the abutment teeth, which serve as a model from which the dental lab will create the bridge, including the pontic (or replacement tooth) and the crowns for the abutment teeth.
3. Temporary Bridge: Just like with a crown, the dentist will likely provide a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums while your bridge is being made.
4. Bridge Placement: At a subsequent visit, the dentist removes the temporary bridge, checks the fit of the custom bridge, makes necessary adjustments, and then cements the bridge into place.
After a crown or bridge is placed, your dentist will provide aftercare instructions, and regular checkups will ensure the crown or bridge remains in the best possible condition.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
The lifespan of dental crowns and bridges can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of material used, the location of the crown or bridge in the mouth, the patient's oral hygiene habits, and the regularity of dental check-ups.
On average, dental crowns and bridges can last between 5 to 15 years. However, with excellent care and if made of durable material, they can last for 20 years or even longer.
Porcelain and ceramic crowns and bridges tend to have a lifespan on the lower end of that range, while metal and porcelain-fused-to-metal ones might last on the longer end.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is key to prolonging the life of crowns and bridges. This includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Avoiding habits that can damage the crowns or bridges, such as chewing hard foods, ice or hard candy, can also contribute to their longevity.
It's important to note that while the crown or bridge itself is immune to decay, the underlying tooth is not. Therefore, it's possible to get a cavity under a crown or bridge if good oral hygiene isn't practiced.
If a crown or bridge becomes loose, it's important to contact your dentist right away to prevent further complications.
How do I care for my dental crown or bridge?
Proper care for dental crowns and bridges largely involves good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Here are some specific steps you can take to ensure the longevity of your dental prosthetics:
1. Regular Brushing and Flossing: Just like your natural teeth, crowns and bridges need regular cleaning. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent decay at the gum line.
2. Special Flossing Tools: If you have a bridge, you may need special flossing tools like superfloss or a floss threader to clean the area beneath the artificial tooth (pontic). Your dentist or hygienist can show you how to use these tools effectively.
3. Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular dental visits (usually every 6 months) are crucial for maintaining your crown or bridge. Your dentist can detect any problems early when they are easier to treat and can provide professional cleaning.
4. Avoid Hard Foods: While crowns and bridges are durable, they aren't indestructible. Try to avoid chewing hard foods, ice, or hard candies that could potentially damage the restoration.
5. Mouth Guard: If you clench or grind your teeth, consider asking your dentist about a night guard to protect your crown or bridge (as well as your natural teeth).
6. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet helps support your overall oral health. Limit sugary snacks and drinks to prevent plaque build-up and potential decay of the natural tooth surrounding your crown or bridge.
Remember, while a crown or bridge is designed to be long-lasting, it might need to be replaced at some point due to wear and tear. Regular visits to your dentist can ensure that any issues are detected and addressed promptly.
What Materials are Crowns and Bridges Made From?
Dental crowns and bridges can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Here are some common materials:
1. Porcelain or Ceramic: These materials can be matched closely to the color of your natural teeth and are typically used for front teeth which are most visible when you smile. They are highly aesthetic but are not as strong as other materials, making them more susceptible to cracking or chipping.
2. Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM): These crowns and bridges offer a good combination of aesthetics and durability. They have a metal base for strength and are covered in porcelain for a natural appearance. However, the metal can sometimes show through as a dark line at the gum.
3. Gold Alloys: These crowns and bridges are very durable and resistant to wear and tear. Gold alloys are strong and don't fracture, and they are gentle on opposing teeth. However, they are not tooth-colored and are therefore more noticeable in your mouth.
4. Base Metal Alloys: These are made from non-noble metals that are highly resistant to corrosion and offer great strength. They are highly biocompatible and require the least amount of healthy tooth to be removed prior to fitting. However, like gold, they are silver-colored and more noticeable.
5. Zirconia: This is a very strong type of ceramic that can withstand biting and chewing forces well. Zirconia crowns and bridges can be matched closely to the color of your natural teeth and require less tooth preparation than other materials.
The best material for your crown or bridge depends on several factors, including the tooth's location and function, the position of the gum tissue, the color of the surrounding teeth, and personal preference. At Smile Science Dental Spa, we can help you choose the best material for your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
How do crowns and bridges help improve my oral health?
Dental crowns and bridges play a crucial role in maintaining and improving oral health, especially when teeth are damaged or missing. Here are several ways in which they contribute to oral health:
1. Restoring Function: If a tooth is damaged or missing, it can make chewing difficult. Crowns and bridges restore the normal function of your teeth, allowing you to eat more comfortably and efficiently.
2. Preventing Damage: A dental crown can protect a weak tooth from further damage. For example, a tooth that is cracked or has a large filling might be vulnerable to further decay or degradation. A crown can provide a protective cover, extending the life of the tooth.
3. Realigning Your Bite: Missing teeth can lead to misalignment in your bite, which can cause issues like jaw pain or difficulty chewing. A bridge can replace missing teeth and restore alignment.
4. Preventing Shifting: When a tooth is lost, the remaining teeth may shift to fill the gap, which can lead to misalignment and other dental issues. A bridge fills the gap, keeping other teeth in their proper place.
5. Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns and bridges can improve the look of your smile by covering discolored or misshapen teeth and filling in gaps. They can be designed to match the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless look.
6. Supporting Oral Health: By addressing decayed or damaged teeth with crowns or replacing missing teeth with bridges, you're helping to maintain overall oral health. These restorative measures can help prevent further issues like gum disease or further decay.
7. Maintaining Facial Structure: Missing teeth can lead to a loss of bone in the jaw, which can cause facial sagging over time. Replacing missing teeth with a bridge can help maintain the shape and structure of your face.
Remember, while crowns and bridges can significantly improve oral health, they do not negate the need for good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are necessary to keep your mouth healthy and your restorations in good condition.
Will the treatment for crowns or bridges be painful?
Here at Smile Science Dental Spa, our dedicated and caring team led by Dr. Richard and Dr. Turke, ensures that every procedure is carried out with your comfort in mind. During the treatment for dental crowns or bridges, we administer a local anesthetic to numb the area being worked on, so you won't feel any pain during the actual procedure.
In the days following the treatment, it's normal to experience some sensitivity in the treated tooth or discomfort around the gums. This discomfort is usually mild and temporary, but we are always here for our patients if you have concerns. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage this discomfort, or contact us if the pain persists.
Sometimes, your bite might feel slightly different after the procedure. This can often be resolved with a quick adjustment appointment, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us. Our top priority is your comfort and satisfaction.
Remember, while crowns and bridges are designed to mimic the shape, size, and function of your natural teeth, they do require care and regular check-ups. We look forward to helping you maintain your beautiful smile and outstanding oral health here at Smile Science Dental Spa.
Can crowns and bridges look natural?
Absolutely, at Smile Science Dental Spa, we take pride in creating dental crowns and bridges that look incredibly natural. Dr. Richard and Dr. Turke, along with our skilled dental team, prioritize aesthetics alongside function when creating these dental restorations.
We use high-quality materials like porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia that can be color-matched to the shade of your natural teeth, providing a seamless, aesthetic result. Whether you choose a crown to protect a damaged tooth or a bridge to replace missing teeth, our goal is to make sure your restoration blends in with the rest of your smile.
Furthermore, the shape of the crowns and bridges are customized to resemble your original teeth. We take careful impressions and work with top-notch dental labs to ensure that the size, shape, and contours of your new crown or bridge match your natural teeth. The result is a restoration that fits your mouth perfectly and enhances your smile beautifully.
Remember, while our crowns and bridges are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, they require care just like your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups at Smile Science Dental Spa will keep your restorations looking their best for years to come.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with crowns and bridges?
Here at Smile Science Dental Spa, we craft our crowns and bridges from durable, high-quality materials designed to last. On average, dental crowns and bridges can last between 5 to 15 years, or even longer. However, the lifespan of your crown or bridge can vary depending on several factors, including:
- The type of material used.
- The location in your mouth and the amount of stress placed on the crown or bridge.
- Your personal oral hygiene habits.
- Regularity of your dental check-ups.
Our team, led by Dr. Richard and Dr. Turke, will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your crown or bridge to maximize its lifespan. This includes regular brushing and flossing, avoiding hard or sticky foods that can damage the restoration, and maintaining regular check-ups and cleanings at our practice.
If you notice any signs of wear, such as chips or cracks, or if the crown or bridge becomes loose, it's important to contact us right away. We're here to ensure that your restoration continues to function optimally and look its best.
Remember, while we strive to provide long-lasting restorations, every crown and bridge will eventually need to be replaced. We'll monitor the condition of your crowns and bridges during your regular visits and discuss when replacement might be necessary. Our primary goal at Smile Science Dental Spa is to keep your smile healthy and beautiful!
Will my insurance cover the cost of crowns or bridges?
We understand that financial considerations are an important part of your dental care decisions. Dental insurance plans vary widely in terms of coverage, and it's best to check with your specific provider to understand your coverage for crowns and bridges.
In many cases, dental insurance plans do provide coverage for crowns and bridges as they are often considered necessary for functional reasons, not merely cosmetic. Typically, they cover a portion of the cost, with the percentage depending on your individual plan.
However, there can be limitations and exclusions. For instance, some insurance companies might only cover the cost of a metal crown, and require you to pay out of pocket if you opt for a more aesthetic material like porcelain or zirconia. Or, they might cover bridges, but not implants, if both options are available to replace a missing tooth.
Our experienced office staff at Smile Science Dental Spa will work with you to help understand your insurance benefits and to ensure you're maximizing your coverage. We can provide a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so you will know what your out-of-pocket cost will be before starting treatment.
Also, we offer a range of payment options and can discuss setting up a payment plan if needed. Our aim is to make high-quality dental care, including crowns and bridges, as accessible as possible for all of our patients. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns about insurance or payment options.
How do I know if I need a crown or bridge?
As dental professionals at Smile Science Dental Spa, our top priority is your oral health. You may need a crown or bridge due to a variety of circumstances, and it's our job to help you understand your unique dental needs. Here are some common scenarios where a crown or bridge might be necessary:
Damaged Tooth: If a tooth is cracked, broken, or severely worn down, a crown may be recommended to restore its shape, size, and strength.
After a Root Canal: After a root canal procedure, the tooth often requires a crown to protect it from fracturing.
Large Fillings: When there's more filling than tooth due to extensive decay or damage, a crown can provide more protection and stability than a filling alone.
Cosmetic Considerations: Crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes, to cover misshapen or discolored teeth and improve your smile.
Missing Teeth: If you're missing one or more teeth, a bridge might be a good solution. Bridges fill gaps in your smile by using the surrounding teeth as anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
Unstable Dentures: For those who find dentures unstable or uncomfortable, implant-supported bridges can be a more secure and comfortable alternative.
If you're experiencing any discomfort, have a damaged or missing tooth, or are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard or Dr. Turke. We will conduct a comprehensive examination, discuss your concerns and goals, and help you understand your best treatment options, which may include a crown or bridge.
Remember, at Smile Science Dental Spa, we're dedicated to providing personalized, quality dental care for every patient. We'll work with you to ensure that you understand your dental health and that we find the best solution for your individual needs.
Can crowns and bridges fix crooked teeth?
At Smile Science Dental Spa, we prioritize a comprehensive approach to dental care and our primary goal is to optimize your oral health and aesthetics. Dental crowns and bridges can certainly address some issues with crooked teeth, but the extent to which they can be used to correct misalignments depends on the severity and nature of the issue.
Dental Crowns: A crown is essentially a cap for your tooth, and can be used to adjust the shape and appearance of a single tooth that's misaligned, crooked, or irregularly shaped. Crowns can give the illusion of straightness by altering the tooth's visible structure.
Dental Bridges: Bridges are more typically used to replace missing teeth. They do not usually correct crooked teeth, but if you have one or more missing teeth causing adjacent teeth to shift or rotate, a bridge can help prevent further misalignment by filling in the gap.
However, for moderate to severe misalignments or bite issues, orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign) may be more appropriate. These treatments can move teeth into the correct position over time and address underlying issues that a crown or bridge cannot.
During a consultation, Dr. Richard or Dr. Turke can assess your teeth and provide a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs. Whether that includes crowns, bridges, orthodontic treatment, or a combination, we're dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, straight, and beautiful smile. Please contact us at Smile Science Dental Spa to schedule your comprehensive evaluation.
What happens if my crown or bridge falls out?
We understand that dental emergencies can be distressing. If your crown or bridge falls out, don't panic; we're here to help.
Firstly, it's important to recover the crown or bridge if possible. Rinse it gently without scrubbing or using any cleaning agents. Avoid any attempts to glue it back in yourself, as this can cause further damage.
Secondly, contact our office immediately to schedule an emergency appointment. If it's after hours, leave a message, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can use dental adhesive or temporary tooth cement available at most pharmacies to temporarily reattach the crown or bridge. This isn't a permanent solution, but it can provide some relief and protection until you can get to our office.
Once you're in our care, Dr. Richard or Dr. Turke will evaluate the situation and discuss your options with you. It may be possible to re-cement the crown or bridge back into place. However, if it's broken or if the tooth underneath has decayed, additional treatment may be needed.
At Smile Science Dental Spa, we're committed to helping you maintain your dental health and comfort. If you ever encounter an issue with your crown or bridge, or any other dental concern, we're here to provide the care and solutions you need.
Don’t let damaged or missing teeth keep you from smiling with confidence. Your path towards a remarkable dental transformation is just one call or click away. Get in touch with us today or conveniently book your appointment online. Quality crowns and bridges in Glendale, Arizona are waiting to restore your beautiful smile!
