Crowns and Bridges: Restoring Smiles with Strength and Beauty By Mission Dental, Nashville, TN | Dr. JenkinsWhen it comes to repairing damaged or missing teeth, two of the most common and trusted dental treatments are crowns and bridges. At Mission Dental in Nashville, TN, Dr. Jenkins and his team use these restorative solutions to help patients regain their confident smiles and oral function—without pain, fear, or confusion. This blog will guide you through what crowns and bridges are, how they differ, and when each might be recommended, in a clear and simple way.  What Are Dental Crowns? A dental crown, often called a “cap,” is a custom-made cover that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns restore the shape, strength, and appearance of a tooth, and are commonly used when: A tooth has a large cavity that cannot be filled. A tooth is cracked, worn down, or broken. After root canal treatment. To improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth. As the visible part of a dental implant. Crowns are made from a variety of durable materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination. At Mission Dental, we use high-quality materials that mimic natural teeth and are designed to last for many years.  What Are Dental Bridges? A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Just like a physical bridge connects two sides, a dental bridge literally “bridges the gap” left by missing teeth. A traditional bridge consists of: Abutment teeth: These are the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, which are prepared to receive crowns. Pontic: The artificial tooth (or teeth) that fills the space and is anchored by the crowns on the abutment teeth. Bridges are an excellent option if you’ve lost a tooth due to decay, trauma, or extraction, and want a fixed solution that doesn’t require surgery.  Key Differences Between Crowns and Bridges While crowns and bridges are both fixed restorations, meaning they stay in place and are not removable like dentures, they serve different purposes. Here’s a helpful breakdown: Feature Crown Bridge Purpose Restores a damaged or weakened tooth Replaces one or more missing teeth Placement Placed on a single tooth or dental implant Anchored by crowns on neighboring teeth Number of Teeth Used for one tooth at a time Spans across multiple teeth to fill a gap Function Reinforces a tooth, improves shape or appearance Restores chewing, speaking, and appearance   What to Expect During the Procedure At Mission Dental, we believe in making your experience as stress-free and comfortable as possible. Whether you need a crown or a bridge, here’s a general idea of how the process works: Initial Evaluation: Dr. Jenkins will perform a thorough examination, take digital X-rays, and determine the best option for your needs. Tooth Preparation: For crowns, the tooth is gently reshaped. For bridges, the surrounding teeth are prepared to support the bridge. Impressions: We take precise digital or physical molds of your teeth to ensure a perfect fit. Temporary Restoration: While your custom crown or bridge is being crafted, you’ll wear a temporary piece to protect your tooth. Final Placement: Once ready, your permanent crown or bridge is securely placed and adjusted for fit and comfort.   Is the Procedure Painful? Many patients worry about discomfort, but rest assured—the procedure is virtually painless. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and Dr. Jenkins and our compassionate Nashville team are known for their gentle touch and calm approach. You might feel mild soreness afterward, but this usually goes away within a day or two.  Benefits of Crowns and Bridges Restorative dentistry offers more than just aesthetics. Here’s how crowns and bridges can help improve your overall health and confidence: Restore chewing and speaking abilities Prevent teeth from shifting into empty spaces Maintain facial structure and jaw alignment Protect weakened teeth from further damage Enhance your smile and self-esteem   Caring for Your Crown or Bridge With proper care, crowns and bridges can last many years. Follow these tips to keep your smile healthy: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily, especially around the restoration. Avoid chewing on very hard foods (like ice or nuts). Visit Mission Dental regularly for cleanings and exams. Dr. Jenkins may also recommend a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night to protect your restoration.  Ready to Restore Your Smile? If you’re experiencing pain, have a damaged tooth, or are missing teeth, don’t wait. Early treatment prevents more serious issues down the road and restores your smile’s health and beauty.At Mission Dental in Nashville, TN, Dr. Jenkins and our experienced team are here to guide you every step of the way. We combine advanced technology with compassionate care to ensure every patient feels safe, understood, and satisfied. Contact us today at (615) 366-4141 to schedule your consultation. Let’s work together to bring back your smile’s strength, function, and brilliance. Let Mission Dental be your trusted partner in oral health. We’re here to help—without fear, without judgment, and with a personalized plan that fits your needs.

A Permanent Solution for a Confident Smile When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants have become one of the most trusted and long-lasting options available today. However, we understand that the idea of a dental implant might sound a bit intimidating at first. That’s why at Mission Dental in Miami, FL, we believe in educating our patients in a simple, friendly, and reassuring way.This article will help you understand what dental implants are made of, why those materials are used, and the many advantages they offer. And don’t worry—there’s nothing scary here. Dental implants are safe, reliable, and designed to help you smile with confidence.If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, feel free to call us at 615-366-4141 to speak with Dr. Jenkins and our caring team. What Exactly Is a Dental Implant? A dental implant is a small post, usually made of a strong and biocompatible material, that is surgically placed into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Once it heals and fuses with the bone, a crown (the visible part of the tooth) is placed on top to restore full function and aesthetics.Think of a dental implant as a secure foundation for your new smile—one that looks and feels just like a natural tooth. Materials Used in Dental Implants There are two primary materials used in modern dental implants, each carefully selected for its safety, strength, and compatibility with the human body.1. Titanium ImplantsTitanium is the most common material used in dental implants for several reasons: Biocompatibility: Titanium is well-accepted by the body. It integrates seamlessly with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong bond that lasts. Durability: Titanium is incredibly strong yet lightweight, making it ideal for long-term use. Proven Track Record: Dental professionals have been using titanium implants for over 50 years, with excellent success rates. Versatility: Titanium can be used in different types of implants, whether you need a single tooth replaced or a full-arch restoration. 2. Zirconia ImplantsZirconia is a ceramic material that has gained popularity in recent years, especially for patients who prefer a metal-free option. Metal-Free: Perfect for patients with metal sensitivities or those who prefer a holistic approach. Aesthetic Benefit: Zirconia is tooth-colored, which may be beneficial in areas where gum recession could expose the implant. Resistance to Corrosion: Like titanium, zirconia does not corrode or degrade in the mouth. At Mission Dental, Dr. Jenkins can evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate material for your situation. Why Choose Dental Implants? The Key Advantages Whether you lost a tooth due to an accident, decay, or gum disease, dental implants can restore your smile and quality of life. Here are some of their standout benefits:1. Natural Look and FeelDental implants are designed to mimic the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. Once placed, they blend in seamlessly and feel just like the real thing—no one will be able to tell the difference.2. Long-Term DurabilityUnlike bridges or dentures that may need adjustments or replacements, dental implants can last decades with proper care. The implant post itself is permanent, and even the crown can last many years with good oral hygiene.3. Improved ConfidenceMissing teeth can impact your self-esteem, especially when speaking or smiling. Implants give you the confidence to speak, eat, and laugh freely again—without worrying about your teeth shifting or falling out.4. Preserves Jawbone HealthWhen you lose a tooth, the jawbone underneath can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants help stimulate the bone just like natural roots, maintaining the strength and shape of your face.5. No Impact on Neighboring TeethUnlike traditional bridges, which require filing down adjacent teeth for support, implants are independent. This means your surrounding teeth remain untouched and healthy.6. Easy MaintenanceCaring for dental implants is simple—just brush and floss as you would your natural teeth, and visit Mission Dental for your regular cleanings and checkups. Are Dental Implants Safe? Yes—dental implants are one of the safest and most predictable procedures in dentistry. At Mission Dental, Dr. Jenkins uses advanced technology and gentle techniques to ensure the process is smooth and comfortable from start to finish.We know that undergoing any dental procedure can feel overwhelming, which is why we take the time to explain every step and make sure you feel at ease. Most patients report very little discomfort during recovery, and the results are well worth it. Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Jenkins Choosing the right solution for your smile is a big decision, and we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. If you’re considering dental implants, we invite you to visit us at Mission Dental in Miami, FL for a personalized consultation with Dr. Jenkins.Call us today at 615-366-4141 to learn more or book your appointment. Let us help you rediscover the joy of a full, confident smile.

 When it comes to dental emergencies, time is of the essence. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, severe tooth pain, or an unexpected injury, knowing what to do in urgent situations can make a significant difference in preserving your oral health. At Mission Dental, led by Dr. Makeya Jenkins, we understand the anxiety that can come with a dental emergency. Our team is here to guide you through these moments with expert advice, care, and compassion. Located conveniently in Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson, we are ready to help you when you need us most.  Understanding Common Dental Emergencies Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s crucial to act quickly to avoid long-term damage. Here are some of the most common emergencies we treat at Mission Dental: ToothacheA sudden, sharp, or throbbing toothache can be a sign of an underlying problem such as a cavity, infection, or even gum disease. While the pain may be bearable at first, it can quickly escalate and become severe. Knocked-Out ToothA tooth that has been completely knocked out due to an injury or accident requires immediate attention. The faster you act, the higher the chance of saving the tooth. Cracked or Broken ToothCracked teeth, whether due to injury or chewing on hard objects, can be painful and prone to further damage. Depending on the severity, your tooth may need a dental crown or root canal treatment. Lost Filling or CrownIf you lose a filling or crown, it can expose the sensitive parts of your tooth to air and food, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of infection. Abscesses or InfectionsA dental abscess is an infection that can cause severe pain, swelling, and even fever. It’s essential to seek treatment right away to prevent the infection from spreading.   Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency Knowing how to react in an emergency can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage. Here are some practical steps to take: Toothache Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be causing irritation. Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling. Avoid using aspirin directly on the affected area, as it can irritate your gums. Contact Mission Dental at (615) 366-4141 to schedule an emergency appointment. Knocked-Out Tooth Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root) to avoid damaging it. Rinse the tooth gently with water to remove dirt (never scrub it). If possible, place the tooth back into its socket. If this isn’t possible, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist. Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. Call us at (615) 366-4141 for immediate assistance. Cracked or Broken Tooth Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it. Apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling. Save any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to your appointment. Call Mission Dental immediately to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenkins. Lost Filling or Crown If you lose a filling, try placing a piece of sugar-free gum into the cavity to temporarily cover it until you can visit the dentist. If you lose a crown, try using dental adhesive (available at most pharmacies) to temporarily place it back. Call Mission Dental to schedule a visit and get a new crown or filling. Abscess or Infection Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on the side of the affected area. Contact Mission Dental immediately to address the infection before it spreads.   Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Seek Treatment It’s easy to think that dental issues will resolve on their own, but dental emergencies require professional care. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious problems, such as: Increased pain Tooth loss Spread of infection The need for more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions At Mission Dental, we encourage patients to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid complications. Dr. Jenkins and our dedicated team are here to provide timely, compassionate care.  How Mission Dental Can Help At Mission Dental, we provide emergency dental care for residents in Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson. Our team is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to treat your dental emergency quickly and effectively. Dr. Makeya Jenkins and her team work diligently to alleviate your pain and restore your smile.We also offer flexible scheduling, including emergency appointments. If you find yourself in need of urgent dental care, call us at (615) 366-4141 to book an appointment.  FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) 1. How do I know if my dental issue is an emergency?If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth, it’s a good indication that you need emergency dental care. When in doubt, call Mission Dental for guidance.2. Can I still save a knocked-out tooth?Yes, if you act quickly (within 30 minutes to 1 hour), there is a good chance the tooth can be re-implanted. Be sure to store the tooth properly and get to the dentist as soon as possible.3. What should I do if I can’t get to the dentist right away?While waiting for your appointment, apply a cold compress, take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended, and avoid eating or drinking in the affected area.4. Do you offer financing for emergency dental care?Yes, we offer flexible payment options, including 0% financing to help manage the cost of your emergency dental care.5. What happens during an emergency dental appointment?During your appointment, Dr. Jenkins will assess your condition, provide pain relief, and recommend the best treatment plan to address the issue. If necessary, she may schedule follow-up visits for more extensive treatment. If you’re facing a dental emergency, don’t wait—contact Mission Dental at (615) 366-4141 today to schedule your appointment. Dr. Jenkins and our team are ready to provide the care you need in your time of need. Your smile