Services
What Are Crowns and Bridges?
Crowns and bridges are restorative treatments that repair damaged teeth and replace missing ones. A dental crown is a custom cap that covers a weak, cracked, or broken tooth to restore its strength, shape, and appearance. A dental bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth, using the healthy teeth on either side for support.
At Shore Drive Dental, we create crowns and bridges that look natural, feel comfortable, and help you chew and smile with confidence again.
When You Might Need a Dental Crown
Cracked or Broken Teeth
A crown holds a damaged tooth together and protects it from breaking further.
Large Cavities
When decay is too large for a filling, a crown restores the tooth’s strength.
After a Root Canal
A crown protects a treated tooth and helps it last for years to come.
Worn or Discolored Teeth
Crowns restore the shape and color of teeth that are badly worn or stained.
When a Dental Bridge Is Recommended
A missing tooth affects more than your smile. Over time, the gap can cause nearby teeth to drift, change your bite, and make chewing harder. A bridge may be right for you if you:
- Are missing one or more teeth in a row
- Have healthy, strong teeth on both sides of the gap
- Want a fixed option that doesn’t come in and out like a denture
- Prefer a restoration that does not require surgery
Benefits of Crowns and Bridges
Restores Chewing and Speaking
Eat your favorite foods and speak clearly with a complete, stable bite.
Maintains Facial Structure
Filling gaps helps support your bite and the natural shape of your face.
Prevents Teeth From Shifting
A bridge keeps neighboring teeth in place so your smile stays aligned.
Durable and Natural-Looking
Metal-free ceramic materials blend in with your natural teeth and are built to last.
Crowns and Bridges
Metal-Free Ceramic Restorations
We offer metal-free ceramic crowns and bridges for patients who want a natural look and biocompatible materials. Ceramic restorations:
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Match the color of your natural teeth With no dark metal line at the gumline.
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Reflect light like natural enamel For a lifelike appearance.
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Are biocompatible Making them a great choice for patients who prefer to avoid metal.
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Hold up to daily chewing With proper care.
Compare Your Options
Crowns, Bridges, or Implant Crowns: Which Is Right for You?
Dental Crown
Best when your natural tooth is still in place but needs protection or repair.
Dental Bridge
A fixed, non-surgical way to replace one or more missing teeth using the neighboring teeth for support.
Implant Crown
Replaces a missing tooth with a crown placed on a dental implant, without relying on nearby teeth. Learn more about implant crowns.
Treatment Process
STEP 01
Examination
We examine your teeth, take any needed X-rays, and recommend the right restoration for you.
STEP 02
Preparation
We gently shape the supporting tooth or teeth and take impressions for your custom restoration.
STEP 03
Temporary Placement
A temporary crown or bridge protects your teeth while your permanent one is being made.
STEP 04
Final Placement
Your permanent crown or bridge is cemented in place and adjusted for a comfortable, natural fit.
Caring for Your Crown or Bridge
Brush and Floss Daily
Clean around your crown and along the gumline to prevent decay underneath.
Clean Under Your Bridge
Use a floss threader or similar tool to remove food and plaque under the bridge.
Avoid Hard Foods and Habits
Skip chewing ice, hard candy, and pens to protect your restoration from chips.
Keep Regular Checkups
Routine visits let us check the fit of your restoration and the health of the teeth supporting it.
Why Shore Drive Dental
Why Choose Shore Drive Dental for Crowns and Bridges?
At Shore Drive Dental, we focus on restorations that look natural and feel like your own teeth. We take time to explain your options, answer every question, and make sure your bite feels right before you leave. Our metal-free ceramic materials and fluoride-free approach give you a restoration that fits both your smile and your health preferences.
We accept most major dental insurance plans, offer flexible financial options, and have convenient hours, including Saturday appointments by request.
Crowns and Bridges
FAQs
Yes. We offer metal-free ceramic options for a more natural look and better biocompatibility.
With proper care, crowns and bridges can last 10 to 15 years or more.
No. Fluoride is not used at any point in our treatment process.
No. We numb the area during preparation so you stay comfortable. Some patients feel mild sensitivity afterward, which usually fades within a few days.
Most crowns and bridges take two visits: one to prepare your teeth and place a temporary, and one to place your permanent restoration.
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost when a crown or bridge is needed. Our team can help you review your benefits before treatment.
Call Us
Book Your Appointment Today!
Ready to restore your smile? Call Shore Drive Dental or visit our Virginia Beach office to schedule your crown or bridge consultation.