We usually recommend a crown for the following scenarios:

• Broken or fractured teeth
• Cosmetic Enhancement
• Decayed teeth
• Fractured fillings
• Large fillings
• Tooth has a root canal

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

The average lifespan of crowns and bridges is typically 5 to 15 years.

Reasons for a fixed bridge:

• Fill space of missing teeth
• Maintain facial shape
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
• Restore chewing and speaking ability
• Restore your smile
• Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.

At the second visit, you permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

Here are some insurances we accept (even if your insurance is not on this list, you should still call to check because we accept all PPO plans):

• Metlife
• Aetna
• Assurant
• Premier Dental Group
• Delta Dental Legions
• Delta Dental
• Guardian
• Humana
• Humana Federal
• United Health Care
• Lincoln
• GEHA
• Sunlife
• United Concordia
• Ameritas
• The Standard
• Cigna
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employees Program
• Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Blue Dental
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Choice