Restorative & General Dentistry

A dental crown, also known as a cap, is designed to encase the entire surface of a tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. Crowns offer protection and reinforcement for tooth structures that cannot be repaired with fillings or other restorations, ensuring long-lasting durability and functionality.

Porcelain crowns, often referred to as tooth-colored crowns, are the most popular choice due to their ability to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. These highly durable restorations provide a seamless, beautiful smile and, like most dental treatments, may require replacement after many years of use. Porcelain crowns are carefully crafted to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth, blending effortlessly for a natural look.

Reasons for crowns:

• Repairing broken or fractured teeth
• Cosmetic enhancements
• Restoring decayed teeth
• Replacing fractured or large fillings
• Supporting teeth after root canal treatment

Typically, the crown procedure involves two appointments. During the first visit, your dentist will take highly accurate molds or impressions to create a custom crown. A temporary crown will also be placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory.

After numbing the tooth, the dentist will remove any decay and reshape the tooth to ensure the perfect fit for your crown. The temporary crown is then secured with temporary cement, and the bite is carefully checked for accuracy.

At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, the tooth is cleaned, and the permanent crown is precisely placed. The dentist will check for proper spacing and alignment to ensure a comfortable fit.

To maintain your crown, you’ll receive specific care instructions and be encouraged to attend regular dental visits to ensure your crown and overall oral health remain in optimal condition.

 A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges, and your dentist will help you determine the best option for your specific needs. The most common type is the traditional bridge, which is typically made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain bridges are particularly popular because they closely resemble natural teeth. This type of bridge consists of two crowns placed over the anchoring teeth (called abutment teeth) and connected to artificial teeth (pontics), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and can last many years; however, they may need to be replaced or re-cemented due to normal wear and tear.

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.

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

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, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit.  Occasionally your dentist may 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 your treatment.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

 At Miles of Smiles, we’re proud to provide gentle, personalized dental care for patients of all ages, from toddlers to seniors. Whether it’s a child’s very first visit, routine care for teens and adults, or specialized treatment for older adults, we tailor our approach to meet each patient’s unique needs. Our team is experienced in creating positive dental experiences at every stage of life, with a focus on comfort, education, and long-term oral health. We believe everyone deserves a healthy smile, and we’re here to help your whole family achieve it.