What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges

Dental Crown

A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a tooth to restore its strength, shape, function, and appearance. It is commonly used when a tooth is cracked, heavily filled, worn down, or after a root canal.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth supported by natural teeth (or implants) on either side of the gap.

Step 1: Consultation and Diagnosis

Oral Examination

The dentist examines your teeth and gums and may take X-rays to check the roots and surrounding bone. Also you can visit our Arizona dental clinic

Treatment Planning

Based on the condition of your teeth, the dentist decides whether a crown or bridge is the best option and explains the procedure, timeline, and care needs.

Step 2: Local Anesthesia and Tooth Preparation

Numbing the Area

Local anesthesia is used so you don’t feel pain during the procedure, only pressure or vibration.

Preparing the Tooth

• For a crown, the tooth is reshaped by removing a small amount of enamel so the crown can fit properly.
  
• For a bridge, the teeth next to the missing tooth (called abutment teeth) are reshaped to support the bridge. This process is permanent.
  

Step 3: Impressions or Digital Scans

Creating a Model

After preparation, the dentist takes an impression or digital scan of your teeth. This is used to design a crown or bridge that fits your bite and smile accurately.

Step 4: Temporary Crown or Bridge

Why Temporaries Are Used

While your crown or bridge is being made in a dental lab, a temporary one is placed to protect your teeth and gums.

How Long It Takes

Most crowns and bridges are ready in about 1–2 weeks, and bridges often take 2–4 weeks.

Step 5: Final Fitting and Cementing

Removing the Temporary

At your next visit, the dentist removes the temporary restoration.

Checking the Fit

The dentist checks the fit, bite, and appearance of the crown or bridge and makes small adjustments if needed.

After the Procedure

What You May Feel

Mild sensitivity to hot or cold and slight gum soreness are common for a few days to a couple of weeks.

Eating and Chewing

Avoid very hard or sticky foods at first. Once you feel comfortable, you can return to normal eating habits.

Long-Term Care

Daily Oral Hygiene

Brush twice a day, floss daily, and clean carefully around the edges of crowns and under bridges.

Dental Visits

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help ensure your crown or bridge stays in good condition.

How Long Crowns and Bridges Last

With proper care, crowns and bridges commonly last 10–15 years and sometimes longer, depending on oral hygiene, bite pressure, and lifestyle habits.

What Arizona Patients Should Know

Choose a licensed dentist and ask about their experience with crowns and bridges. You can also ask whether they offer traditional lab-made restorations or same-day digital options so you can pick what suits you best.