Dental Crowns and Fixed Bridges-Rochester, MN

Fix or Replace
Your Damaged Teeth

Man and woman smiling after restorative dentistry with dental crowns and fixed bridges

If you’ve suffered extensive tooth decay or damage or have lost one or more teeth, the dental crown provides an excellent solution. Zirconia and porcelain crowns are sturdy, long-lasting, and look just like your natural teeth. Have questions about dental crowns? If you’re wondering what a crown is, how long it lasts, and what the difference between a crown and bridge is, we’ve got answers. Learn more about the dental crowns and fixed bridges in Rochester, from Dr. Brong below.

Why Choose Zumbro Family Dental for Dental Crowns & Bridges?

  • Long-Lasting Dental Restorations
  • Understanding Dentist and Team
  • Pressure-Free Recommendations

What Is a Dental Crown?

Animated smile during dental crown restoration placement

The dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering. Also called a cap, it fits directly over an affected tooth, or it takes the place of a missing tooth. Dental crowns can be made from porcelain, porcelain fused-to-metal, zirconia, gold, or other metal alloys. Zumbro Family Dental prefers dental crowns made of porcelain or zirconia for their aesthetics and strength.

A dental crown may be used to correct a number of dental issues, including…

  • Restoring significant tooth decay
  • Holding together parts of a broken tooth
  • Strengthening a weak or worn tooth
  • As the final step in a root canal
  • Tooth replacement

A porcelain or zirconia crown also makes cosmetic improvements to a tooth that is weak, worn, or otherwise flawed. It’s a perfect solution for damaged front teeth, which are restored without marring the appearance of the smile.

What’s the Difference Between a Dental Crown and a Bridge?

Animated smile during fixed bridge restoration placement

A single crown can improve the form and function of a damaged tooth that still exists in the gum line. A bridge is a set of dental crowns that replaces one or more missing teeth. A natural-looking tooth replacement, the dental bridge restores proper dental function, allowing you to chew, bite, and speak properly. It also prevents the teeth surrounding the gap from drifting out of place.

A fixed traditional bridge works using the two natural teeth around the gap as anchors. With a sturdy crown on each, a set of prosthetic teeth fill in the space in between. This way, it creates a literal bridge over the gap. The fixed bridge cannot be removed for cleaning.

How Long Do the Dental Crowns and Bridges Last?

Man and woman smiling after dental crown and fixed bridge restoration

A dental crown or bridge can last for many years with proper care. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, concentrating on the area around the base of the crown to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup. Visit your family dentist for regularly scheduled dental checkups to make sure your crown stays healthy and whole for years to come.

Porcelain and zirconia are both very sturdy materials, but they are not as strong as your natural tooth enamel. To protect crowns and bridges in the front of the mouth, avoid biting directly into foods like apples and corn on the cob. Protect your smile with a custom-fit mouthguard or sports guard if you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports.

Questions About Dental Crowns?

Woman considering dental crowns

If you have a question about your dental crown, or if you need to schedule restorative dental care with an experienced team, please don’t wait to contact your family dentist in Rochester. Request an appointment today!