Crowns & Bridges in Westchester
Restore Your Smile in Westchester
The prospect of receiving a dental crown or bridge can seem overwhelming with questions about cost, time, and how it affects your routine. Dental crowns are among the most common restorations at Advanced Dentistry of Scarsdale. We use crowns in various circumstances to restore teeth to a natural, beautiful smile. Dental bridges use natural teeth to support replacement teeth for those who've lost teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over an old or damaged tooth (after it is stabilized). Crowns restore natural tooth feel and make smiles look healthy again.
Most crowns are made from advanced ceramics, though other materials include stainless steel (typically for children's baby teeth), gold, or porcelain fused with metal. During consultation, our dentists discuss your needs and help determine which crown type fits your individual requirements based on strength needs.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a replacement tooth supported by your natural teeth. Before dental implants became prevalent, bridges came in various configurations.
Today, most dental bridges feature one replacement tooth supported by two dental crowns on either side of the missing tooth. For multiple missing teeth or weak supporting teeth, dental implants may be a better option.
Benefits of Crowns & Bridges
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- A functional bite and natural, comfortable chewing surface
- Aesthetic appearance blending with natural teeth
- Support for natural teeth in the arch
- Relief from pain due to hairline cracks in molars
- Up to 20–30 years of use before you need a replacement
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Aesthetics: Restores healthy smile appearance and fills out the lower face shape
- Restoration: Restores speech clarity and increases chewing ability
- Distribution: Distributes bite force equally to alleviate stress on other teeth
- Cost: Bridges are much less expensive than dental implants, especially if you need multiple teeth replaced
When Do I Need a Dental Crown?
Generally, a crown is needed if a weak tooth needs protection (cracked or damaged tooth), you have a worn-down tooth, not much tooth remains after a large filling, a dental bridge needs to be held in place, you need to cover a dental implant, or you need cosmetic modification for discoloration or misshapen teeth.
You may also want to consider alternatives like veneers, inlays, or onlays that achieve similar goals.
When Do I Need a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge might be the best choice if you're missing one tooth, you have strong teeth on either side of the missing tooth, your neighboring teeth might benefit from dental crowns, you are not a good candidate for dental implants, or you don't want dental implants.
A bridge is usually more fitting than a partial denture, though sometimes a dental implant is the best treatment option.
Why Choose Advanced Dentistry of Scarsdale?
Our lead prosthodontist, Dr. Steven Brisman, has over 35 years of experience creating custom dental crowns and bridges for his patients. If additional procedures are needed to strengthen teeth and gums before crown or bridge placement, a periodontist is available in-house.
35+ Years of Expertise
Dr. Brisman brings decades of prosthodontic experience to every crown and bridge procedure, ensuring precise fit and lasting results.
In-House Specialists
We have three specialists working together, including a periodontist, enabling coordinated care without referrals to outside offices.
On-Site Dental Lab
Our in-house dental laboratory cuts wait time by allowing faster fabrication than offices that outsource their lab work.
The Crown and Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental crown or bridge usually requires at least two office visits. During the first visit, fitting is done and a temporary restoration is placed. The second visit involves placing the finished, permanent restoration.
First Visit
The dentist examines the roots and bone of the damaged tooth or supporting teeth to check stability. If too much damage exists, another procedure like a dental implant may be needed.
If the tooth is ready, the area is numbed and the tooth is shaped for the crown or crowns. If not enough tooth remains from decay or breakage, material is added to create a stable foundation. An impression is taken so the in-house lab creates a restoration matching your smile exactly. A temporary restoration is provided until the permanent one is available.
Second Visit
The crown or bridge is fit, with color matched to surrounding teeth. The area is numbed, shape is checked for perfect fit, and if all looks well, the crown or bridge is cemented into place.
Care and Longevity
Do Crowns and Bridges Need Special Care?
After receiving a temporary crown, follow your dentist's advice on care. Generally, avoid chewing ice and sticky candy, using the other side of your mouth to chew. Once the permanent crown is in place, it will act just like your other teeth!
Like natural teeth, crowns and bridges are not immune from decay or bacteria, so maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice daily. Avoid sugary foods and drinks.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
- Brush twice daily with deep-cleaning toothpaste
- Floss daily under the false tooth and between natural teeth
- Visit the office regularly for professional dental cleaning
- Eat a diet higher in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
How Long Will My Crown or Bridge Last?
With proper brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, a dental crown can last 20–30 years. Avoiding very hard foods and those that cause cavities helps lengthen crown life. A dental bridge also lasts many years depending on care quality. With proper care, you can expect a dental bridge to last at least 10 years. Some may even last 15 years or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
While safe and effective, potential risks include discomfort or sensitivity shortly after the procedure, particularly in the treated area. Crown or bridge loosening or falling out is possible if the underlying tooth or cement deteriorates over time. Porcelain crowns or bridges may chip, though complications are rare and the risks can be minimized with proper care and regular dental checkups.
With proper care including good oral hygiene and regular checkups, dental crowns can last between 20 and 30 years. Dental bridges typically last 10 to 15 years or more, depending on the level of care and the materials used. Following your dentist's recommendations for crown and bridge care will help ensure their longevity.
Yes, crowns and bridges are both functional and cosmetic. They are custom-made to match your natural tooth color and shape, seamlessly blending into your smile for a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Beyond improving your smile's appearance, crowns and bridges restore tooth functionality for comfortable chewing and speaking. They distribute bite force evenly, preventing further damage to natural teeth and maintaining jaw and face structure. Overall, crowns and bridges can significantly enhance your smile's appearance and overall oral health.
Patient Testimonials
More Testimonials"Dr. Brisman and the entire staff are wonderful. They truly care about their patients. The office is state of the art and the quality of work is outstanding. I would highly recommend Advanced Dentistry of Scarsdale."
— Former Patient
"I have been going to Advanced Dentistry for over 20 years. The care has always been exceptional. From routine cleanings to more complex procedures, I always feel confident and comfortable."
— Long-Term Patient
Restore Your Smile Today
Schedule a consultation to discuss whether crowns or bridges are right for you. Our prosthodontists will create a custom treatment plan.