Crowns and Bridges

The latest dental technology creates crowns and bridges that are strong, durable and a perfect match for your natural teeth. At the office of Sabrina E. Mickel, DDS, in Beachwood, Ohio, Dr. Mickel and her team offer the best options in porcelain, zirconia, and other types of custom-made crowns and bridges. Book your appointment through online scheduling or call the office today.

What are crowns and bridges?

Crowns and bridges are dental restorations. 

Crowns

Crowns are individual tooth-shaped caps that fit over your tooth or dental implant. They match the color and shape of your natural tooth while protecting it from damage and reinforcing its strength. 

Bridges

Bridges replace one or more missing teeth. A typical bridge includes one pontic (false tooth) with crowns on each side. The crowns fit over either your natural teeth or dental implants. 

Bridges and crowns are usually mentioned together because bridges always include crowns. 

What are bridges and crowns made of?

Crowns are usually made of porcelain, a durable material that the team can match to the exact shade of your nearby natural teeth. In the past, crowns were made of stainless steel, but porcelain offers excellent strength and cosmetic appeal.

Bridges are made of porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or engineered ceramic products like zirconia. The choice of bridge material depends on many factors, including where it’s located in your mouth and your budget.

When might I need crowns and bridges?

The most common reason to need a crown is either severe tooth decay or tooth damage, such as a major crack. 

In many cases, extensive damage or decay requires the removal of a significant portion of the tooth, and the remaining tooth isn’t strong enough to support the large filling that it would require. 

In those situations, a crown can protect the remaining part of your tooth while restoring your ability to chew and speak normally. 

You might need a bridge if you lose one or more teeth but still have healthy teeth nearby to support the crown portion of a bridge.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

On average, crowns last around 5-15 years. You can maximize the longevity of your crown or bridge by avoiding chewing on ice, never using your teeth to open packages, never biting your nails, and avoiding teeth grinding.

The Sabrina E. Mickel, DDS, team checks your crowns or bridges during your regular dental checkups and recommends repair or replacement if needed. 

Crowns and bridges can give you a stronger, more beautiful, and more durable smile than ever before, so don’t wait to learn more. Call the office of Sabrina E. Mickel, DDS, or use on the online booking feature to set up your consultation today.