Crowns & Bridges in Chesterfield, MO

Crowns and bridges are cosmetic dental restorations widely preferred due to their multi-purpose characteristics.  They are solid and durable appliances that can address problems like concealing an impaired tooth, cover a dental implant or fill the gaps of missing teeth. Crowns and bridges can be matched with the other existing teeth and seamlessly blend with your smile. At Licata Dental, our dentist in Chesterfield, MO offers crowns and bridges to hide your tooth imperfections and reinstate your smile aesthetics.

What Are Dental Crowns by the Dentist in Chesterfield, MO? 

Dental crown placements generally take two to three visits. As a preliminary step, the affected tooth is shaped to fit inside the permanent crown. This will require some amount of drilling to give the tooth an even shape. The tooth and the adjoining area will be numbed with local anesthesia. If there is very little tooth structure left, it may have to be augmented with filling material rather than resizing to support the crown.

After the tooth is prepared, its impressions are captured and sent to the dental laboratory. The impressions will be used to construct a crown. We will ensure that your new crown will match your smile and function, giving you a correct bite.

Before you leave our dental office, a temporary crown will be secured to your tooth to shield it until the permanent restoration is fabricated. At the second visit, your final crown will be checked for correct fit and bite and then attached to your tooth using dental adhesives. Call us to learn more.

What Is a Dental Bridge by the Dentist in Chesterfield, MO?

Crowns can also create an exact replacement for a missing tooth. This is achieved with bridgework, which spans the missing tooth's space and requires three crowns. Two of those crowns will be fixed over adjacent teeth on either side of the missing tooth.  These supporting teeth are called abutment teeth. The two crowned abutment teeth provide supports for a third crown between them. The abutment teeth necessary to replace missing teeth are based on the number of missing teeth and the location of the missing tooth.

Caring for Your Crowns & Bridgework by the Dentist in Chesterfield, MO

Crowns and bridgework will need the same diligent care as your natural teeth. It will help if you brush and floss between all of your teeth every day to reduce the accumulation of plaque deposits. It is even more vital to undertake your regular exams and cleanings at the dental office when you have prosthetic restorations. 

5 Essential FAQs About Crowns and Bridges: Your Guide to Restoring Your Smile

1. What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Crowns and bridges are dental restorations that help restore the function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth. A crown strengthens a damaged tooth, while a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth.

2. How Long Do Crowns and Bridges Last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or even longer. Their longevity depends on the materials used and how well they’re maintained.

3. Are Crowns and Bridges Noticeable?

Not at all! Crowns and bridges are custom-made to match your natural teeth' color, shape, and size, providing a seamless and natural look.

4. When Do I Need a Crown vs. a Bridge?

A crown is used for a single tooth that’s damaged or weakened, while a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth, filling the gap by anchoring to neighboring teeth.

5. How Do I Care for My Crowns and Bridges?

Caring for crowns and bridges is simple:

• Maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
• Avoid biting down on hard foods.
• Visit your dentist for regular cleanings to keep them in great shape.

To learn more about our crown and dental bridge options, visit our office, Licata Dental, at 111 Hilltown Village Center, Suite 200, West County suburb of St. Louis, Chesterfield, MO 63017. You can also reach Dentist in Chesterfield MO at 636-532-2101 and schedule an appointment.