Crowns/Bridges

Crowns and Bridges: Understanding Your Options for Strong, Healthy Teeth

A healthy, confident smile makes daily life feel easier. If you have a damaged or missing tooth, you are not alone. At Flawless Smile Dentistry in Claremore and Broken Arrow, we create personalized solutions to protect your oral health and restore your smile with comfort and care. Many patients find that Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges offer restorative, dependable, natural-looking results that feel great and support long-term wellness.

When do dental crowns help most?

A dental crown covers the entire tooth to restore strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns are often recommended for a damaged tooth with deep decay, a cracked or worn tooth, or after a root canal to protect the remaining structure. Crowns can also anchor dental bridges and improve the look of front teeth while blending with natural teeth.

Our team uses advanced technology, including 3D digital X-rays and CBCT, to plan a precise, conservative approach. We preserve a small amount of enamel when preparing the tooth, ensuring a proper fit while protecting comfort and function. The goal is a strong, beautiful result that fits your bite and supports healthy teeth.

What materials are available for a dental crown?

Crowns come in various materials, and we recommend options based on your oral health needs, the tooth’s location, and your goals.

  • Porcelain and ceramic crowns provide lifelike translucency for front teeth.
  • Metal crowns and gold alloy are durable choices for back teeth needing high strength.
  • Some cases use a combination for an ideal balance of durability and esthetics.

During your visit, your dentist will explain the types of crowns, the advantages of each material, and what best suits your oral health goals. Together, we select the type of crown that looks natural and supports long-term durability.

How the crown process works

Your comfort comes first. We use gentle techniques and clear communication at every step.

  1. We take digital scans or impressions to guide the dental laboratory.
  2. Prepared teeth receive temporary crowns to protect them while your permanent crown is crafted.
  3. At your second visit, we place the new crown, check the fit, and secure it with dental cement.

Most patients return to normal routines the same day. If you have a temporary restoration, we’ll review proper care to keep the tooth in good condition until your final visit.

When are dental bridges recommended?

If you have missing teeth or a single missing tooth, a dental bridge can fill the gap with artificial teeth attached to the abutment tooth or teeth. A bridge prevents tooth loss–related shifting, protects alignment, and restores chewing. With proper care, a permanent bridge provides a stable, attractive option that improves quality of life.

There are several types of dental bridges. A traditional bridge is the most common and uses crowns on the teeth on each side of the space. A cantilever bridge attaches to one strong abutment tooth. A Maryland bridge uses a bonded wing on the side of the space and can be helpful around front teeth when conditions are right.

What is the dental bridge procedure like?

The dental bridge procedure focuses on comfort, precision, and a natural look. We evaluate the health of the natural tooth or teeth supporting the bridge and plan a treatment that reflects your oral health needs. Then we prepare the supporting teeth, take impressions or scans, and place a temporary bridge. After the dental laboratory crafts your new bridge, you return for final placement. We check the bite, adjust as needed, and secure it with dental cement for a reliable, long-term result.

What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?

A dental crown covers a single natural tooth to protect and strengthen it, while a dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by connecting artificial teeth to neighboring crowned teeth. Both support function, comfort, and appearance, and your dentist will help you decide which option fits your goals.

Crowns, bridges, or implants?

Every smile is unique. Some patients consider a dental implant to replace a single missing tooth without involving nearby teeth. Others benefit from a traditional bridge that uses prepared teeth for support. If a tooth cannot be saved due to gum disease, severe decay, or a necessary extraction, we discuss the timing for a bridge or implant and the type of bridge that fits your needs. Our caring team helps you compare choices in simple language so you feel confident.

Comfort, technology, and a relaxed visit

We believe great dental care should feel welcoming. From a stress-free environment with blankets, pillows, Netflix, and bottled water to a calm, step-by-step approach, we focus on your comfort. Advanced imaging and modern tools improve accuracy, protect tooth structure, and support early detection to prevent further damage. Your dental professional explains each step so you always know what to expect.

Caring for your new restoration

Daily habits and regular dental visits keep restorations in good condition. Simple steps support long-term success.

  • Brush and floss gently around crowns and bridges to protect the margins.
  • Use floss threaders or water flossers around artificial teeth.
  • Schedule professional cleanings and exams to maintain oral health.
  • Avoid very hard foods while wearing a temporary bridge or crown.
  • Wear a nightguard if recommended to protect the new dental bridge or crown.

These habits help maintain natural tooth support, safeguard the proper fit, and reduce the risk of further damage. Our team coaches you on home routines that align with your lifestyle and adjusts your plan as your needs evolve.

Planning your care at Flawless Smile Dentistry

Choosing between Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges starts with a thoughtful conversation. We listen to your concerns, assess any exposed tooth or missing space, and design a treatment plan that fits your schedule. We also discuss financing options, welcome dental insurance, and offer convenient appointment times to make care easier.

Our dentists are committed to continuing education and use state-of-the-art technology to place new crowns and bridges with precision. We guide you through each decision with clear explanations of the recommended restoration. You’ll understand how the tooth is being protected, what filling material may be replaced, and how we preserve enamel for strength and comfort.

Results that look natural and feel strong

Patients appreciate restorations that blend with natural teeth and stand up to everyday life. We focus on a natural tooth appearance while optimizing function for back and front teeth. Whether you choose Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges or consider a dental implant, our goal is a healthy bite, confident chewing, and a smile you love to share.

We respect your time and comfort, tailoring care to your unique oral health goals. You can expect personalized guidance, a gentle touch, and restorations built with high-quality materials from a trusted dental laboratory. Our work helps protect neighboring teeth and supports the stability of your bite.

Ready to feel confident about your options?

If you are weighing Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges, we are here to help you choose with clarity and comfort. 

Schedule a consultation at our Claremore or Broken Arrow office. Meet a licensed dentist, talk through your options, and enjoy a welcoming, stress-free visit designed around your needs.

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