When teeth are damaged, decayed, or missing, dental crowns and bridges offer reliable, long-lasting solutions that restore both function and appearance. At Crescent City Dentists, we provide expert crown and bridge services using modern materials and techniques, with the added advantage of our in-house dental laboratory for faster turnaround times and superior fit.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are one of the most common restorative procedures in dentistry, and modern materials make them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns We Offer
- Porcelain crowns: Natural-looking and ideal for front teeth where aesthetics are paramount
- Zirconia crowns: Extremely strong and natural-looking, excellent for both front and back teeth
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Combines the strength of metal with the appearance of porcelain
- Gold crowns: Highly durable and gentle on opposing teeth, preferred by some patients for back teeth
- All-ceramic crowns: Metal-free options for patients with metal sensitivities or who prefer biocompatible materials
When Do You Need a Crown?
Crowns are recommended when a tooth has:
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge literally "bridges" the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more crowns placed on the teeth flanking the gap (called abutment teeth) with a false tooth or teeth (called pontics) suspended between them.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges
The most common type, using crowns on both adjacent teeth to support the pontic.
Cantilever Bridges
Supported by a crown on only one adjacent tooth, used when teeth exist on only one side of the gap.
Maryland Bridges
Use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, more conservative preparation.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth, ideal for larger gaps or when adjacent teeth are healthy.
Crown vs Bridge: Which Do You Need?
The choice between a crown and a bridge depends on your specific situation:
Crown Alone
When a damaged tooth still has a healthy root and can be preserved.
Bridge
When one or more teeth are completely missing and need replacement.
Implant + Crown
When a single tooth is missing and you want the most natural, independent solution.
During your consultation, our doctors will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the best option for your situation.
The Crown and Bridge Procedure
Getting a crown or bridge typically involves two visits:
Preparation & Impressions
We prepare the tooth (or teeth) by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crown. We take precise digital impressions and place a temporary crown to protect your tooth while the permanent restoration is crafted in our lab.
Final Placement
We remove the temporary, check the fit and color of your permanent crown or bridge, make any adjustments, and cement it in place. Thanks to our in-house lab, the time between visits is often shorter than practices that send work to outside laboratories.
Our In-House Lab Advantage
Unlike most dental offices that send crown and bridge work to distant laboratories, Crescent City Dentists has an in-house dental lab. This means:
- Faster turnaround — less time in a temporary crown
- Better communication between doctor and technician
- Custom shade matching for the most natural appearance
- Quick adjustments without sending work out
- Cost savings passed on to patients
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. Some patients keep their crowns for 20+ years with good oral hygiene and regular checkups.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some sensitivity after the procedure is normal and typically resolves within a few days. We also offer sedation options for anxious patients.
Costs vary depending on the material chosen and complexity of the case. We accept most insurance plans, offer flexible financing, and have an annual membership plan for uninsured patients. Contact us for a personalized estimate.
Yes! Implant-supported bridges are an excellent option for replacing multiple missing teeth. They do not require altering healthy adjacent teeth and provide superior stability.
If a crown or bridge becomes loose or falls off, save it and call us immediately at (386) 698-1138. We can often recement it the same day. Do not try to glue it yourself.
Yes. Dental implants and removable partial dentures are alternatives we can discuss during your consultation.
Brush twice daily, floss around and under the bridge using floss threaders or a water flosser, and visit us for regular cleanings. Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods directly on the crown.
See Real Results
Visit our Smile Gallery to see before-and-after photos of crown and bridge cases completed at our office.
View Smile GallerySchedule Your Crown or Bridge Consultation
Let our experienced team evaluate your needs and recommend the best solution.