Missing or broken teeth can change the way you eat, speak, and even smile. If you’re searching for a way to restore your smile, Smile Source Signature Dental Care can help.
Our experienced dentists in Stone Mountain, Georgia, specialize in dental crowns and bridgework. We offer dependable solutions to rebuild confidence and functionality in your teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns and Bridgework?
Both crowns and bridges are made from durable, tooth-colored materials to blend beautifully with your smile. Here’s how they are different:
- Dental crowns are custom-made caps placed over a single damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape and function. We’ll often use these to protect your tooth after a root canal or repair extensive decay. Crowns can also cover dental implants to complete a missing tooth replacement.
- Dental bridges fill gaps caused by one or more missing teeth. A bridge typically consists of a false tooth (or multiple teeth) held in place by crowns placed on your natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Bridges restore your ability to chew and speak and also prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place.
Common Reasons for Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are commonly used for:
- Restoring teeth with severe decay or damage.
- Replacing one or more missing teeth.
- Protecting a tooth after a root canal.
- Stabilizing dental implants.
- Replacing old or failing dental work.
- Correcting bite alignment problems caused by missing teeth.
What to Expect When Getting Dental Crowns or Bridgework
Smile Source makes the process of getting dental crowns or bridges as comfortable as possible, and it typically requires two visits. Here's what you can expect:
First Visit
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will examine your teeth, discuss your dental concerns, and determine whether a crown or bridge is the right treatment. Our team may take X-rays to help plan your procedure.
- Preparation: We will need to reshape the involved teeth for both crowns and bridges. We’ll remove a small amount of enamel to make room for the restoration. If you're receiving a bridge, we’ll prepare the adjacent teeth to anchor the bridge.
- Impressions: The dentist will take detailed impressions of your teeth to design a custom restoration that fits with your bite and blends in with your smile.
- Temporary Restoration: We may place a temporary crown or bridge to protect your teeth while the final restoration is being made.
Second Visit
- Placement of the Crown or Bridge: We’ll have you come back once your custom crown or bridge is ready. The dentist will carefully place and adjust it for fit and comfort, then bond it securely to your tooth or teeth.
Why Choose Smile Source Signature Dental Care?
At Smile Source Signature Dental Care, our dentists focus on providing durable solutions. Dr. Bernee Dunson, practicing since 1996, has extensive training in restorative and implant dentistry and is among a select group in Georgia certified to perform IV sedation for patient comfort.
Dr. Brandon Lynch, a graduate of the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, offers a wide range of restorative and cosmetic treatments, including crowns and bridges.
Dr. Fabian Byer was inspired by his own family’s dental challenges. He emphasizes education and prevention while developing treatment plans to enhance oral health.
Our team’s expertise and quality care make us a trusted choice for dental crowns and bridgework in Stone Mountain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns and Bridges
Who Is a Good Candidate for Crowns or Bridgework?
You may benefit from crowns or bridges if you:
- Have damaged or missing teeth that affect your eating or speaking.
- Require crowns to complete dental implant treatment.
- Have worn or failing dental restorations that need improvement.
- Experience bite alignment problems caused by missing teeth.
- Notice teeth shifting due to gaps in your smile.
A thorough evaluation with one of our experienced dentists can help determine if crowns or bridges are the right solution for you.
How Do I Care for My Crown or Bridge?
Good oral hygiene is essential! Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit the dentist for routine checkups to keep your restoration in great shape.
Are Crowns and Bridges a Permanent Solution?
While they are long-lasting, they may eventually need to be replaced due to wear. Regular dental visits will help us monitor their condition.
What Happens If My Bridge Becomes Loose or Damaged?
If your bridge becomes loose or damaged, contact our office for an evaluation and repair.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Your smile deserves the best care, and our team at Smile Source Signature Dental Care in Stone Mountain is ready to assist. Learn more about dental crowns and bridgework by calling 678-515-4200 to book your consultation.
