Crowns and Bridges in West Palm Beach

When a crown is recommended

A filling replaces lost tooth structure. A crown covers the tooth so chewing forces are distributed across the whole surface rather than concentrated on weakened walls. The decision usually comes down to how much sound structure remains.

• Extensive loss of tooth structure to decay or fracture
• A large existing restoration that is failing
• A cracked tooth that needs to be held together
• A tooth at risk of fracture following endodontic treatment

How the crown process works

The tooth is prepared to a shape that will support the crown, records are taken, and the restoration is fabricated to fit precisely and meet the opposing teeth correctly. Depending on the workflow used, a temporary restoration may be worn between appointments.

Fit at the margin — where crown meets tooth — matters enormously, because that junction is where future problems tend to begin.

When a bridge is considered

A bridge replaces a missing tooth by joining a replacement to the teeth on either side. It is a fixed solution, meaning it is not removed for cleaning, and it depends entirely on the health and strength of the supporting teeth.

Where those neighboring teeth are healthy and untouched, an implant may be preferable precisely because it leaves them alone. Where they already need crowns, a bridge can solve two problems at once. That trade-off is the heart of the conversation.

Cleaning matters more, not less

Crowned teeth still have living roots and gums around them. Bridges need cleaning underneath the replacement tooth, which requires a threader, an interdental brush or a water flosser. This technique is worth practicing in the office rather than reading about later.

Longevity

Well-made crowns and bridges can serve for many years. What shortens their life is usually not the restoration itself but what happens around it — new decay at the margin, gum disease, or unmanaged grinding.