Dental crowns and bridges are among the most common restorative dental treatments. A crown is a cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. A bridge uses crowns on adjacent teeth as anchors to support one or more artificial teeth in between, replacing a gap left by a missing tooth. Dr. Okamoto and Dr. Bigley have extensive experience with both restorations.
- Restore cracked, broken, or decayed teeth
- Replace one or more missing teeth with a bridge
- Match the natural colour and shape of your teeth
- Durable materials including porcelain and ceramic
- Protect teeth after root canal treatment
- Long-lasting results with proper care
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits completely over a damaged tooth, restoring it to its original shape and function. Crowns are recommended when a tooth is cracked, severely decayed, has had a root canal, or has a large filling that compromises the remaining tooth structure.
At Okamoto and Bigley Dentistry, crowns can be placed using our in-office CEREC technology in a single appointment, or fabricated by an external dental laboratory over two visits. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are matched to the shade of your natural teeth for a seamless, natural appearance.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge spans the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) anchored to crowns placed on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. These anchor teeth are called abutments.
Bridges are a fixed restoration - unlike dentures, they are permanently cemented in place and do not need to be removed. They restore chewing function, prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the gap, and maintain the natural contour of the face.
Crown and Bridge Care
Crowns and bridges are cared for just like natural teeth. Brush twice daily and floss around crowns carefully. For bridges, a floss threader or interdental brush should be used to clean under the pontic where a toothbrush cannot reach. Avoid biting very hard foods or objects, as even strong ceramic restorations can chip under extreme force.
With proper care, crowns typically last 15 years or more. Regular checkups allow us to monitor the condition of your restorations and address any issues early.
Frequently asked questions
Dental terminology
Crown
A tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function.
Bridge
A fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth using adjacent teeth as anchors.
Pontic
The artificial tooth in a dental bridge that replaces the missing tooth.
Abutment
The tooth (or implant) that supports a crown or the anchor end of a dental bridge.
Porcelain Crown
A crown made entirely from tooth-coloured ceramic material for a natural appearance.