Dental Crowns and Bridges in Auburn

What Is a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are fixed “caps” that cover a tooth to restore its strength, shape, and appearance. We generally recommend crowns when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired with bonding or composite fillings, or when a large filling exceeds the remaining natural tooth structure. Crowns are also used to protect a tooth after root canal therapy, to restore a permanent dental implant, and for cosmetic reasons, such as reshaping a discolored or misshapen tooth.

Dental crowns have many applications. They can be placed over a damaged tooth to cap the existing structure, restoring it so it can be used normally. Crowns can also be attached to dental implants – which are surgically placed in the jawbone and act as the tooth’s root – to replace missing teeth with a steady, secure result. Crowns can also provide support for dental bridges. Once in place, crowns require no special treatment and can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth.

When Might You Need a Crown?

• A tooth that is cracked, broken, or severely worn down
• A tooth with a large cavity or an oversized filling
• A tooth that has had a root canal
• A dental implant that needs a visible replacement tooth
• A discolored or misshapen tooth you want to improve cosmetically

What Is a Dental Bridge?

If you’ve lost a tooth but aren’t ready for a dental implant, a dental bridge is an excellent option. Bridges consist of one or more replacement teeth that “bridge” the gap left behind when a tooth is lost or extracted. A bridge can be anchored with crowns on the neighboring teeth on each side of the gap or supported by dental implants for added stability. We custom-design every component of your bridge so it looks natural and performs the way you need it to.

Replacing a missing tooth does more than complete your smile. It prevents neighboring teeth from drifting out of place, helps maintain a healthy bite, and makes chewing and speaking easier. If you’re missing several or all of your teeth, dentures or All-on-4 dental implants may be better options.

How Does the Crown Process Work?

Getting a crown usually takes two visits. First, your dentist shapes the tooth so the crown fits securely over it. We then take impressions of your upper and lower dental arches to create an accurate replica of your teeth, ensuring your permanent crown fits snugly without allowing bacteria underneath. Experienced technicians at our partner dental lab use these impressions to handcraft your custom restoration.

How Do Temporary Dental Crowns Work?

Because shaping the tooth leaves it more vulnerable in the short time between your impressions and the delivery of your permanent crown, we place a temporary crown to protect it. During this period, avoid sticky or very hard foods and chew carefully on that side. When your permanent crown arrives, we’ll remove the temporary, check the fit and color of your new crown, and bond it securely in place.

How Much Do Crowns and Bridges Cost in Auburn, ME?

We offer competitive pricing for dental crowns and bridges in Auburn, ME, and partner with many leading insurance providers. The cost of your crown or bridge depends on factors such as the number of teeth being treated and the material you choose. We’ll explain everything during a personalized consultation and can discuss dental financing options for comfortable monthly payments. Learn more on our Financial page.

Don’t compromise your health for the sake of your budget. Restore your oral health, attractive smile, and dental function with custom crowns and bridges from our experienced team. Call Taylor Brook Dental Associates at (207) 784-1577 to schedule your appointment.

Dental Crowns and Bridges FAQs