When your teeth are damaged or missing, it can impact your smile, confidence, comfort, oral health, and even your overall health. At Dentistry of Fishers, Dr. Jeremy Jones and our friendly team help our patients explore all their restorative options to rebuild healthy, fully functional smiles. Two of the most common and effective solutions are dental crowns and dental bridges. But how do you know which one is right for your needs?
We’re here to help!
What Is a Dental Crown in Fishers, IN?
A dental crown is essentially a custom-made cap that’s commonly used to cover and protect a weakened or damaged tooth, or placed on top of a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.
Crowns are crafted to look and feel just like natural teeth, restoring both strength and appearance. Depending on an individual's specific case and cosmetic goals, dental can be made from a variety of durable materials, like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or other metal alloys. With proper care, crowns can last 10–15 years or more, making them a reliable, long-term investment in your oral health.
Crowns are often recommended when:
- A tooth is severely decayed and cannot be restored with a filling.
- A large fracture or chip compromises a tooth’s structure.
- A tooth has undergone root canal treatment and needs protection.
- A patient needs an aesthetic upgrade to misshapen, oddly sized, or discolored visible teeth.
- Long-term restoration is needed in the aftermath of tooth loss and dental implant placement.
And What Is a Dental Bridge in Fishers, IN?
While crowns restore individual teeth, a dental bridge is designed to replace one or more adjacent missing teeth. A bridge is a dental prosthetic device that’s anchored in place by crowns on the neighboring teeth, with one or more artificial teeth (called “pontics”) filling the gap.
Bridges may be the right choice if:
- One or more missing teeth are affecting your natural biting, chewing, or speaking ability.
- You want to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the empty space caused by tooth loss.
- You’d prefer a fixed, non-removable tooth replacement (unlike partial dentures).
- You are not a candidate for dental implants due to poor bone density or other health conditions.
Modern bridges are made with lifelike materials that blend seamlessly into your smile, helping you regain function and confidence.
The Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
Both crowns and bridges offer important health and cosmetic benefits, including:
- Protection and strength — They reinforce weak or damaged teeth, reducing the risk of further fractures or infections.
- Restored function — Biting, chewing, and speaking are easier and more comfortable.
- Aesthetic improvement — Natural-looking restorations blend with your existing teeth and restore confidence to your speech, smile, and laugh.
- Preventive value — Bridges in particular prevent shifting and bite problems that can occur after tooth loss.
Ultimately, both treatments can help maintain the alignment of your bite, improve oral comfort, and enhance your day-to-day quality of life.
The Treatment Process at Dentistry of Fishers
At Dentistry of Fishers, Dr. Jones ensures every step of your restorative journey is comfortable and personalized. Here’s what you can expect:
- A comprehensive evaluation — A thorough exam from Dr. Jones, along with digital X-rays, helps determine whether a crown or bridge is the most effective solution for your needs.
- Tooth preparation — For crowns, the tooth is gently reshaped so the restoration fits securely. For bridges, meanwhile, the supporting teeth are prepared to hold the anchoring crowns.
- Impressions and customization — Impressions are taken to create restorations that perfectly match your bite and smile. Temporary restorations may be placed while your permanent ones are made in a dental lab.
- Final placement — Your custom crown or bridge is securely bonded, carefully adjusted, and polished for a seamless finish.
Once your procedure is complete, Dr. Jones and his team will provide detailed aftercare guidance to help you protect your restoration and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
Crowns vs. Bridges: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between a crown and a bridge depends on your dental condition. Crowns are best if you still have the natural tooth structure in place but it is weak, broken, or severely decayed. Bridges are recommended if you are missing one or more teeth in a row and want a fixed, durable solution. In some cases, a combination of both treatments may be needed. Dr. Jones will review your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the treatment that best restores your function and appearance.
Caring for Your Crown or Bridge
With proper care, crowns and bridges can last many years. A few simple steps can protect your investment:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily, using traditional floss, floss threaders, or interdental brushes around your bridge.
- Scheduling routine dental cleanings and exams every six months.
- Avoiding chewing hard objects (like ice or pens) that may damage your restoration.
Regular maintenance ensures your restoration remains strong, functional, and beautiful for years to come.
Is a Dental Implant an Alternative?
Some patients may also consider dental implants as an alternative to bridges. While implants offer excellent stability and longevity, they require a healthy jawbone and a longer healing process. Bridges remain an excellent solution for patients who want a faster, non-surgical option. During your consultation, Dr. Jones will walk you through the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed decision.
Seamless Smile Restorations with Dental Crowns and Bridges in Fishers, IN
If you’re struggling with damaged or missing teeth, you don’t have to live with discomfort or embarrassment. At Dentistry of Fishers, Dr. Jeremy Jones and our caring, compassionate team are here to restore your smile with custom crowns and bridges designed for lasting health and confidence.
Contact Dentistry of Fishers today to schedule a consultation and discover which treatment is right for you!