Crowns and Bridges in Lodi, CA

Both dental crowns and bridges are used to restore teeth that are damaged, broken, or decayed. At TLC Dental Care, our dentist will recommend one of these options based on your individual needs and health goals. Both restorations are custom-crafted to fit your mouth for a natural and comfortable look. They help to restore the strength and appearance of the affected teeth while protecting them from further damage. Patients can expect their crown or bridge to last for about 5 to 10 years with proper care and regular visits to the dental office for cleanings and maintenance.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-fitted, tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength and improve its appearance. Crowns are incredibly resilient and will last for many years with the proper care. Many patients choose crowns to cover teeth that are broken or cracked, worn down from grinding, discolored, misshapen, or missing entirely. They also secure a dental bridge in place and cover dental implants.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that replaces one to three consecutive missing teeth in a row. The artificial tooth is typically supported by two dental crowns placed on the adjacent teeth. Bridges are custom fit and colored to match the surrounding teeth, so they blend in naturally with your smile. Most bridges can last between five and 15 years with proper care and maintenance. 

How Do Crowns and Bridges Differ?

A crown is a cap that goes over your tooth, whereas a bridge replaces a missing tooth or teeth by “bridging” the gap with a porcelain prosthetic. Both options can be made of porcelain for aesthetic reasons. These restorations can fix several aesthetic and functional problems, including misshapen or damaged teeth, missing teeth, and poor bite alignment.

If your teeth have sustained damage or have broken in a way that cannot be fixed with fillings, crowns or bridges may be recommended to restore the appearance and function of your smile. In some cases, both may be used in the same treatment process, as it can be challenging to restore a single tooth. During your consultation, your doctor will recommend the appropriate solution for your situation.

How Long Do Crowns and Bridges Last?

Both dental crowns and bridges can last for many years; however, they sometimes require repair or replacement. Some things, such as chewing on ice or hard candies, can cause them to wear down faster than others. Other damage causes include teeth grinding, clenching, and biting on foreign objects like pens or pencils. You can protect your crown by practicing good oral hygiene habits and avoiding bad habits that could harm it.

Our dentist can recommend the best type for you after thoroughly examining your teeth. Contact TLC Dental Care at 1101 West Tokay Street Suite 1, Lodi, CA 95240, or call (209) 334-2821.