Crowns and Bridges: Restoring Smiles with Strength and Beauty
By Mission Dental, Nashville, TN | Dr. Jenkins
When 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.