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Crowns And Bridges Specialist

Richard J. Stuart, DDS

Prosthetic and Implant Dentistry located in Indianapolis, IN

Restoring your smile with dental crowns and bridges not only helps enhance the appearance of your teeth, but they also help keep your mouth healthy long-term. Richard J. Stuart, DDS, is a highly skilled prosthetic and cosmetic dentist serving Indianapolis and the nearby communities. Dr. Stuart and his dedicated dental team provide the highest standard of cosmetic dentistry, including custom crowns and bridges, in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. If you have missing, or decayed teeth, a crown or bridge might be the solution that restores your smile. Book a consultation online, or call the practice to schedule.

Crowns and Bridges

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a “cap” that fits over an existing tooth or becomes the visible part of a dental implant. Crowns can restore a damaged tooth or cover a weakened tooth after a root canal. Crowns restore teeth that are otherwise too far decayed to be repaired with fillings or other dental restorative procedures.

Typically, crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic because these materials look most like your natural teeth. Dr. Stuart offers porcelain CEREC® crowns so you can receive a new crown that’s made right in the office. The CEREC machine uses a digital scan of your teeth to create your customized crown in a single visit.

Crowns can provide the support for a dental bridge.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a restoration that replaces more than one missing tooth or severely damaged teeth. Bridges are cemented into place, so they become a permanent part of your mouth. They can attach to your natural teeth or to a dental implant and crown.

The bridge holds an artificial tooth, or several teeth, called pontics between the surrounding teeth. There are several different types of bridges, but Dr. Stuart usually recommends fixed bridges that become a permanent part of your mouth, rather than removable bridges that may slip out of place.

Why should I replace a missing tooth or several teeth?

Beyond the aesthetic value of replacing missing or decayed teeth with crowns and bridges, there are many reasons to consider when you’re missing teeth. Crowns and bridges can help:

  • Prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of place
  • Maintain your facial structure
  • Prevent further decay or damage
  • Keep your mouth as healthy as possible
  • Make it easier to keep your teeth and gums clean
  • Restore your ability to eat and talk naturally
  • Allow you to eat your favorite foods without difficulty
  • Protect weak teeth
  • Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth
  • Protect a tooth after a root canal

Crowns and bridges can help you avoid future, more complicated dental procedures, too. Custom-made dental crowns and bridges restore more than just your teeth; they help you talk, eat, and smile with confidence.

If you’re missing one or more teeth, don’t delay in exploring dental restoration options like crowns and bridges. Call the office to schedule a consultation, or book online today.