Crowns & Bridges – Treasure Valley Family Dentistry

Restorative Dentistry

Crowns and Bridges: Cost-Effective Solutions for Damaged or Missing Teeth

A dental crown is essentially a cap that covers a cracked tooth or a tooth with a large cavity, while a dental bridge literally bridges the gap between one or more missing teeth. Both crowns and bridges offer a cost-effective and non-invasive solution to tooth loss, and may also be used to strengthen damaged teeth or restore the appearance of a discolored or poorly-shaped tooth. Patients throughout Meridian, Boise, Eagle, and the Treasure Valley rely on our crowns and bridges for lasting restorations.

At Treasure Valley Family Dentistry, we use the highest quality materials and advanced techniques to create crowns and bridges that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. Our goal is to restore your smile and confidence with crowns and bridges that stand the test of time. We work with top dental laboratories to ensure every crown and bridge meets our exacting standards for fit, color, and durability.

Whether you need a single crown to protect a weakened tooth or a bridge to replace missing teeth, Dr. Yeakley will work with you to find the best solution for your unique situation. We take the time to explain every option and ensure you feel confident in your treatment plan. Our crowns and bridges are custom-designed to match your natural tooth color and shape for a seamless, beautiful result.

Modern crowns and bridges are crafted from advanced materials including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Each material has its own advantages, and our team will recommend the best option based on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences. With proper care, crowns and bridges can last 10 to 15 years or longer.

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Dental Crowns

Custom-crafted caps that protect and restore damaged, cracked, or decayed teeth to their natural strength and appearance.

Dental Bridges

Fill gaps left by missing teeth with a fixed prosthetic that looks and functions like natural teeth.

Natural Appearance

Made with high-quality materials matched to your tooth color for a seamless, natural-looking result.

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Understanding Crowns and Bridges

Full Dentures
Full dentures replace all of the teeth in the upper arch, lower arch, or both. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that supports a full set of prosthetic teeth and rest directly on the gum tissue. Upper dentures include a palate plate for suction and stability, while lower dentures are horseshoe-shaped to accommodate the tongue.

Full dentures are an ideal solution for patients who have lost all their natural teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. We also offer immediate dentures that can be placed on the same day teeth are extracted, so you never have to go without a smile.

Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are designed for patients who still have some healthy natural teeth remaining. They consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, connected by a metal or flexible framework that clasps onto your existing teeth for support and stability.

Beyond restoring your smile's appearance and chewing function, partial dentures serve an important structural purpose: they prevent your remaining natural teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to bite problems and additional tooth loss over time.

Implant-Supported Dentures
For patients who want maximum stability and confidence, implant-supported dentures offer a premium solution. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as anchors, and the denture snaps or clips securely onto them — eliminating the slipping and adhesive associated with traditional dentures.

Implant-supported dentures also help preserve jawbone density, which naturally deteriorates after tooth loss. This prevents the sunken facial appearance that can develop over time with conventional dentures. Ask Dr. Anderson whether implant-supported dentures are right for you.

Self-Check

Signs You May Need Crowns and Bridges

A tooth with a large crack or fracture

A tooth weakened by a large filling

Pain when chewing or biting

A tooth that has had root canal therapy

One or more missing teeth

Teeth shifting or gaps widening

Difficulty chewing on one side

Self-consciousness about gaps in your smile

If any of these sound familiar, schedule an evaluation to see if crowns and bridges are right for you.

How long do dental crowns and bridges last?

With proper care, dental crowns and bridges typically last 10 to 15 years, and many last even longer. Factors that affect longevity include your oral hygiene habits, diet, and whether you grind your teeth. Regular checkups at our Meridian office help us monitor your crowns and bridges and catch any issues early.

Is getting a dental crown painful?

The procedure for placing crowns and bridges is performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel any pain during the preparation. We also offer complimentary nitrous oxide for patients who want extra comfort. Some mild sensitivity after the procedure is normal and typically resolves within a few days.

What materials are used for crowns and bridges?

Our crowns and bridges are crafted from premium materials including all-ceramic (for the most natural appearance), porcelain-fused-to-metal (for strength and aesthetics), and zirconia (for exceptional durability). We'll recommend the best material for your crowns and bridges based on the tooth's location, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences.

How do I care for my dental bridge?

Caring for crowns and bridges is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush twice daily, and use a floss threader or interdental brush to clean under the bridge where a regular floss can't reach. Regular professional cleanings at our office are essential for maintaining the health of the teeth supporting your bridge and extending its lifespan.

Will my crown match my other teeth?

Absolutely. Our crowns and bridges are custom shade-matched to blend seamlessly with your surrounding natural teeth. We take detailed shade measurements and work with skilled dental laboratories to ensure your crowns and bridges look completely natural. Most people won't be able to tell which tooth has a crown.

How many visits are required for crowns and bridges?

Most crowns and bridges require two visits. During the first appointment, we prepare the teeth and take impressions. You'll wear a temporary restoration while your custom crowns and bridges are fabricated by our dental lab. At the second visit, we remove the temporary and permanently bond your new crowns and bridges.

Can a dental bridge replace multiple missing teeth?

Yes, dental bridges can replace one or more consecutive missing teeth. The design of the bridge depends on the number of missing teeth and the strength of the anchor teeth. For patients missing several teeth, crowns and bridges can be combined strategically, or we may discuss alternative options like partial dentures.

Are crowns and bridges covered by dental insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of crowns and bridges because they are considered restorative (medically necessary) treatments. Coverage typically ranges from 50% to 80% after your deductible. Our team will verify your benefits and explain your out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment.

What's the difference between a crown and a bridge?

A dental crown covers and protects a single damaged tooth. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Both crowns and bridges are custom-made restorations designed to restore function and aesthetics. Our dentist will recommend the right option based on your specific needs.

What happens if I don't replace a missing tooth?

Leaving a missing tooth untreated can lead to several problems: surrounding teeth may shift into the gap, your bite may become misaligned, bone loss can occur in the jaw, and chewing ability may be compromised. Crowns and bridges are an effective way to prevent these complications and maintain your oral health long-term. Schedule a consultation at our Meridian office to discuss your options.

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