Crowns & Bridges

At Royal Oak Dental, located in the heart of Royal Oak, MI, we understand the importance of a healthy, beautiful smile. Dental crowns and bridges are essential components in restorative dentistry, offering solutions for damaged or missing teeth that can restore both function and aesthetics. 

Dental Crowns in Royal Oak, MI  

A dental crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is a tooth-shaped covering placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used to protect a weakened tooth, restore a broken or worn-down tooth, or cover and support a tooth with a large filling. They can also be used to hold a dental bridge in place or cover a dental implant. 

Types of Dental Crowns 

Porcelain Crowns 

Porcelain crowns are highly popular due to their ability to closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth. They are especially favored for front teeth because of their aesthetic appeal. Porcelain crowns are known for their durability and are resistant to staining. 

Ceramic Crowns 

Ceramic crowns are made entirely of a ceramic material that blends seamlessly with natural teeth. They are an excellent choice for those with metal allergies and provide a highly aesthetic result. 

Metal Crowns 

Metal crowns, often made from gold or other metal alloys, are known for their strength and durability. They are less likely to chip or break, making them ideal for molars that are not visible when you smile. 

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns 

PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They are a strong, durable solution for both front and back teeth, though the metal can sometimes show through the porcelain. 

Zirconia Crowns 

Zirconia crowns are known for their strength and natural appearance. They are a popular choice for patients seeking a durable and aesthetically pleasing option, especially for back teeth. Contact us to learn more. 

When Are Dental Crowns in Royal Oak, MI, Needed? 

• Protecting a weak tooth: Crowns are often used to protect a tooth that has been weakened by decay or a large filling, preventing it from breaking. 

• Restoring a broken tooth: If a tooth is cracked or severely worn down, a crown can restore its function and appearance. 

• Covering a dental implant: Crowns are used to cover dental implants, providing a natural-looking tooth replacement. 

• Supporting a dental bridge: Crowns are placed on adjacent teeth to anchor a dental bridge, filling the gap created by missing teeth. 

• Cosmetic enhancement: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your smile. 

The Dental Crown Procedure in Royal Oak, MI  

Initial Consultation and Examination 

The process begins with a comprehensive examination at Royal Oak Dental. During this visit, our experienced dentists will assess the condition of your tooth and discuss your treatment options. X-rays may also be taken to evaluate the tooth's roots and surrounding bone. 

Tooth Preparation 

Once you decide to proceed with a crown, the tooth is prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the crown. The amount of enamel removed depends on the type of crown that’s going to be used. If the tooth is severely damaged, a filling may be required to build up enough tooth structure to support the crown. 

Impressions 

After the tooth is prepared, an impression is taken of the tooth and the surrounding teeth. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where the crown will be custom made to fit your tooth precisely. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. 

Crown Placement 

Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to Royal Oak Dental for the placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is carefully fitted and adjusted to ensure a perfect fit. Once the fit is confirmed, the crown is cemented. 

Final Adjustments 

After the crown is placed, our dentists will make any final adjustments to ensure your bite is comfortable and the crown feels natural. 

What Are Dental Bridges in Royal Oak, MI? 

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally "bridges" the gap created by missing teeth, using adjacent teeth or dental implants as anchors. A bridge is typically composed of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a fixed false tooth (or teeth) in between. 

Types of Dental Bridges in Royal Oak, MI  

Traditional Bridges 

Traditional bridges are the most common type and involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (false tooth) in between. These bridges are strong and durable, making them suitable for replacing molars. 

Cantilever Bridges 

Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This type of bridge is less common and is typically used in areas of the mouth that do not experience heavy chewing forces. 

Maryland Bridges 

Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, are made of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal and supported by a metal or porcelain framework attached to the back of adjacent teeth. They are often used to replace front teeth and are less invasive than traditional bridges. 

Implant-Supported Bridges 

Implant-supported bridges are an excellent option when multiple teeth are missing. Instead of being supported by crowns on natural teeth, these bridges are supported by dental implants, making them a stable and long-lasting solution. 

When Are Dental Bridges Needed? 

• Replacing missing teeth: Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth, restoring your smile and preventing the shifting of adjacent teeth. 

• Restoring chewing function: Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly. A dental bridge restores your ability to chew comfortably. 

• Maintaining facial shape: Missing teeth can cause your facial structure to sag over time. A bridge helps maintain the natural shape of your face. 

• Improving speech: Missing teeth can affect your speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain words. A dental bridge can help you speak more clearly. 

• Preventing teeth from shifting: When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth may shift into the gap, leading to bite problems and misalignment. A dental bridge keeps your teeth in their proper positions. 

The Dental Bridge Procedure in Royal Oak, MI  

Initial Consultation and Examination 

The first step in getting a dental bridge is a consultation at Royal Oak Dental. Our dentists in Royal Oak, MI, will examine your teeth and gums, discuss your options, and take X-rays to assess the surrounding teeth and jawbone. 

Tooth Preparation 

For a traditional or cantilever bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap must be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the crowns. If an implant-supported bridge is being used, the implants will be surgically placed in the jawbone. 

Impressions 

After the teeth are prepared, impressions are taken of your teeth and the surrounding area. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where the bridge is custom made to fit your mouth perfectly. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums. 

Bridge Placement 

Once the permanent bridge is ready, you will return to Royal Oak Dental for the placement. The temporary bridge will be removed and the new bridge will then be fitted and adjusted to ensure a comfortable and natural fit. The bridge is then cemented in place. 

Final Adjustments 

After the bridge is placed, our dentists will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite is correct and the bridge feels comfortable. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor the fit and function of the bridge. 

Benefits of Crowns & Bridges in Royal Oak, MI  

• Restored function: Crowns and bridges restore the function of your teeth, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably and naturally. 

• Enhanced aesthetics: Both crowns and bridges are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. 

• Durability: With proper care, dental crowns and bridges can last many years, providing a durable solution for damaged or missing teeth. 

• Improved oral health: By filling gaps and protecting weakened teeth, crowns and bridges help maintain the alignment of your teeth and prevent further dental issues. 

• Confidence boost: A restored smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem, allowing you to smile, speak, and eat with confidence. 

Conclusion 

Dental crowns and bridges are vital components of restorative dentistry, being solutions for damaged and missing teeth that can restore both function and aesthetics. At Royal Oak Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality crowns and bridges tailored to your individual needs, helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. 

Whether you need to protect a weakened tooth, restore a broken tooth, or replace missing teeth, our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact Royal Oak Dental today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how crowns and bridges can enhance your smile and improve your oral health. 

Ready to achieve your perfect smile? Contact Royal Oak Dental today at 248-398-1818 or visit us at 715 North Main Street, Royal Oak, MI 48067. Our expert team is here to provide you with the best dental care and personalized treatment plans to meet your needs. Book your appointment now and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile!