A damaged or missing tooth can make everyday activities like eating, speaking, and smiling more difficult. At Laurel Bush Family Dentistry, we provide custom dental crowns and bridges that restore the strength and appearance of your smile with beautiful, long-lasting results.
For more than 25 years, our experienced dentist has helped patients in Bel Air, MD, protect weakened teeth and replace missing teeth with restorations that look and feel natural. Every treatment is personalized to your smile, allowing you to enjoy renewed confidence and improved oral health.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth above the gumline. Sometimes called a tooth "cap," a dental crown restores the tooth's strength, shape, size, and appearance while protecting it from further damage. Dental crowns may be recommended for teeth that have:
- Large cavities that cannot support a filling
- Cracks or fractures
- Significant wear
- Undergone root canal treatment
- Broken or weakened tooth structure
- Cosmetic imperfections
At Laurel Bush Family Dentistry, our crowns are carefully crafted using high-quality materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and BruxZir® Zirconia, to provide exceptional durability and a natural appearance.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns help restore a tooth's function and appearance while protecting your long-term oral health. Benefits of restoring your smile with a dental crown include:
- Strengthens weakened teeth
- Restores normal chewing function
- Protects teeth from further damage
- Improves the appearance of worn or discolored teeth
- Blends naturally with your smile
- Designed for long-lasting durability
With proper care and regular dental visits, a well-made crown can provide years of dependable performance.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. By filling the gap left behind by missing teeth, a bridge helps restore your smile while maintaining proper alignment and bite function. Without replacement, neighboring teeth may gradually shift into the empty space, increasing the risk of bite problems and additional dental concerns.
Types of Dental Bridges
At Laurel Bush Family Dentistry, we offer personalized bridge solutions to meet our patients' needs:
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional bridge uses custom crowns placed on the healthy teeth adjacent to the missing tooth to support one or more replacement teeth between them. This time-tested solution restores appearance, function, and stability while blending naturally with your smile.
Implant-Supported Bridges
For patients missing multiple teeth in a row, implant-supported bridges offer an alternative that does not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Instead, dental implants anchor the bridge directly to the jawbone, creating a secure, stable restoration while helping preserve bone health. During your restorative consultation, we'll help determine which option is best for your smile.
Are Crowns or Bridges Right for You?
You may benefit from restorative treatment with a dental crown or bridge if you:
- Have a cracked or broken tooth
- Need to restore a tooth after root canal treatment
- Have a large filling that no longer supports the tooth
- Are missing one or more teeth
- Want to improve your ability to chew comfortably
- Are ready to restore the appearance of your smile
Our dentist will perform a comprehensive examination and recommend the treatment that best supports your oral health and long-term goals.
What to Expect During Treatment
Every restoration begins with a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. For crowns, the tooth is carefully prepared before impressions are taken to create a restoration designed specifically for your smile. Once your custom crown is ready, it is securely bonded into place for a comfortable fit and natural appearance.
For bridges, we'll prepare the supporting teeth or evaluate implant placement, depending on the type of bridge you choose. Your final restoration will be custom-crafted to restore both function and aesthetics.
Throughout the process, our compassionate team prioritizes your comfort and keeps you informed every step of the way.
Restore Your Smile with a Custom-Crafted Crown or Bridge
Damaged and missing teeth don't have to keep you from smiling with confidence. Whether you need to strengthen a weakened tooth or replace one that's been lost, Laurel Bush Family Dentistry offers personalized restorative solutions designed to help you enjoy a healthy, complete smile again.
Contact our Bel Air office today to schedule your consultation and discover how custom dental crowns and bridges can restore your smile for years to come.
