If you’ve had one or more teeth extracted due to injury or decay, it’s important that you consider tooth-replacement options. Many patients don’t realize that the removal of just one tooth can result in a variety of oral health problems, including the shifting of nearby teeth, facial sagging at the extraction site, potential damage to nearby teeth caused by overuse, and more. At Napoleon Smiles in Napoleon, we proudly provide dental crown & bridge treatment to restore our patients’ chewing, smiling, and speaking function.

What is a dental crown and how is it placed?

A natural-looking prosthetic covering that caps a natural tooth that has been significantly damaged, broken, or discolored, dental crowns also serve as a cover for a dental implant and can be used on teeth that surround a dental bridge, holding them securely in place.

The process of placing a dental crown requires two steps. During your first appointment, your dentist will examine your tooth and take an impression of it and the area that surrounds it. Your tooth will then be prepared for your permanent crown and have a temporary crown placed until your customized restoration is complete. During your second appointment, we’ll ensure that your completed crown’s color, fit, and shape meets your needs. When we’ve confirmed the crown is ideal for your smile, we’ll secure it in place!

What is a dental bridge and how is it placed?

A dental prosthetic that’s designed to take the place of one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge fills the open area, “bridging” the space with one or more artificial teeth. In doing so, the prosthesis improves a patient’s chewing and speaking function while also preventing shifting in teeth that are adjacent to the gap.

The process of having a bridge placed is similar to having a dental crown placed. Teeth on either side of the bridge will be prepared to receive crowns, which will anchor the bridge in place. We’ll take a mold of the area and put a temporary bridge in place until your permanent version is created by our laboratory professionals. Once complete, we’ll schedule an appointment to permanently secure your completed bridge!

When you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental crown and bridge treatment may provide the natural-looking, highly durable tooth-replacement option you’ve been looking for. Call us today to arrange a consultation and determine if this is the right option for your smile!