Many people have missing teeth due to injury, disease, and decay. Regardless of the reason you’re missing teeth, modern restorative dentistry can give you back your smile. Ignoring gaps in your teeth for too long can cause the surrounding teeth to shift out of place. The jawbone around the affected site will also start to deteriorate.
Restoring your tooth doesn’t just fulfill aesthetic purposes. It also helps improve your oral health. Dental crowns and bridges are two excellent options for restoring missing teeth we offer at Dental Care of Rosewood. We offer several solutions to correct a wide range of oral health problems. Schedule a consultation at our office in Columbia, SC.
What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?
Dental crowns are individual caps that fit over the surface of a damaged tooth. Dentists use them to provide additional strength and support for a tooth that needs structural support.
Dental bridges are a dental restoration alternative featuring two crowns and a fake tooth in the middle. The fake tooth fills the gap left by a missing tooth, while two crowns act as anchors for both.
Dental Crowns and Bridges: Which Should You Choose?
Generally, your dentist will determine if you need dental crowns or if you need full dental bridges after a consultation. However, we can provide some guidance you can work with to make your decision easier.
You may need a dental crown if you have a broken, cracked, or damaged tooth. You may also need a dental crown if you have a tooth with significant areas of decay or one where the previous filling is no longer effective. If you undergo a root canal treatment, the dentist may install dental crowns to give additional support to the tooth.
You may need a dental bridge if you’re missing a single tooth in between two healthy teeth. Dental bridges can help improve the appearance of your smile, ensure you have a proper bite, and also keep the surrounding teeth from moving.
The Crowns and Bridges Installation Process
You need two appointments to install crowns and bridges. During the first appointment, the dentist will focus on preparing the teeth for the procedure and taking dental impressions. The dental laboratory will use the impression mold to make your dental crown or bridge and the accompanying replacement teeth.
During the teeth preparation, the dentist may administer local anesthesia to remove decayed tissue and reshape the existing tissue. After preparing the teeth, they’ll install a temporary crown or bridge to protect your teeth while the permanent restoration is in process.
You’ll return for your second appointment when the permanent restoration is ready. During the appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary crowns and bridges, clean the teeth, and install the permanent restoration.
Dental Crowns in Columbia, SC
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible surface of a damaged tooth. Crowns restore the strength, shape, and appearance of a tooth that has been weakened by decay, fractures, large fillings, or root canal treatment.
Most dental crowns require two appointments. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and places a temporary crown. A permanent crown is placed at the second appointment after the dental lab has fabricated the restoration.
Crowns are typically recommended when a tooth has too much damage for a filling to provide adequate support. Common situations include cracked teeth, teeth with large areas of decay, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, and teeth with old fillings that are failing. Same-day crown options may be available depending on your specific case.
Dental Crown vs. Filling: When Is a Crown Necessary?
Fillings work well for small to moderate areas of decay. When the damaged area is too large for a filling to hold, a crown provides full coverage and structural support. A crown distributes biting force across the entire tooth, which reduces the risk of further cracking or breakage. Your dentist at Dental Care of Rosewood can help you determine whether a filling or a crown is the better option after an examination.
Dental Bridges in Columbia, SC
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a prosthetic tooth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Bridges restore chewing function, prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, and improve the appearance of your smile.
Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant
Both bridges and implants can replace missing teeth, but they work differently. A bridge relies on adjacent teeth for support and does not require surgery, while an implant is placed directly into the jawbone and functions independently. Bridges can typically be completed in two visits, whereas implants may require several months of healing.
The right choice depends on your jawbone health, the condition of adjacent teeth, timeline preferences, and budget. Your dentist can review both options during a consultation. For a detailed comparison, read our guide on dental bridges vs. implants in Columbia.
How Long Do Crowns and Bridges Last?
With proper care, dental crowns and bridges can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Factors that affect longevity include oral hygiene habits, diet, and regular dental checkups. Avoiding hard foods and maintaining consistent brushing and flossing can help extend the life of a restoration.
Cost and Insurance for Crowns and Bridges
The cost of crowns and bridges depends on the material used, the number of teeth involved, and the complexity of your case. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of crown and bridge treatment. Dental Care of Rosewood also offers payment plans to help patients manage the cost of restorative care. Call our office to discuss your insurance benefits and financing options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns and Bridges
How long does it take to get a dental crown?
Most dental crowns require two appointments spread over one to two weeks. The first visit covers preparation and impressions, while the second visit involves placing the permanent crown. For more details, see our guide on how long it takes to get a dental crown in Columbia, SC.
Does getting a crown or bridge hurt?
Local anesthesia is used during the preparation appointment, so patients typically feel little to no discomfort. Some mild sensitivity after the procedure is normal and usually subsides within a few days.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
After a short adjustment period, most patients eat normally with a dental bridge. It is best to avoid very hard or sticky foods that could put excessive stress on the bridge.
What happens if I delay replacing a missing tooth?
Leaving a gap in your smile can allow neighboring teeth to shift out of alignment, which may affect your bite and increase the risk of decay or gum disease. Early replacement with a bridge or implant helps preserve your oral health.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Are you considering installing dental crowns and bridges? Call Dental Care of Rosewood at 803-680-9080 to schedule a consultation with our doctor in Columbia, SC. We are experts at providing custom solutions that can significantly transform your oral health.