A crown (or cap) is a type of restoration that completely covers the entire tooth. This is usually done when there is a tremendous amount of tooth structure missing or filled, or when there is a crack in the tooth that is giving specific symptoms. A tooth that has a crown on it does not necessarily need to have a root canal done. The tooth is prepared and an impression is taken and sent to the lab to fabricate a tooth restoring it to its original shape and size. Our lab is local and the crown is made 100% in the USA. Most of the crowns we do now are all-porcelain, using no metal. Crowns should look very natural. For people who prefer, a custom shade can be done at the lab for no extra charge, to ensure that the crown blends with the other teeth. A shade can also be taken in our office for those who prefer not to make the trip to the lab.

A bridge is a restoration that is used to replace a missing tooth or teeth, and is non-removable. A bridge consists of two or more crowns that go over the anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (the replacement teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is cemented in permanently and does not come out. Bridges can also be supported by implants.