Crowns and Bridges

Crowns

If a portion of your tooth fractures off, or there has been too much tooth structure lost that a “filling” will not offer the support necessary for your proper function or esthetics, a crown may be the treatment necessary. Crowns are tooth-shaped restorations that cover the entire tooth down to the gum line, providing circumferential strength for the remaining tooth structure. Dr. Eckart will explain your options for the type of crown required for your personal situation, maximizing strength, function, and esthetic concerns.

Bridges

If you have a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth begin to twist, drift and distort the way the upper and lower teeth meet when you close your mouth. Not replacing a missing tooth may result in the loss of additional teeth. The change of your natural arch form may also cause additional problems, like headaches, jaw joint pain, and periodontal disease. If an implant is not an option you elect to pursue, fixed bridges have been utilized for many decades to replace missing teeth. There are many types of bridges that can be fabricated depending upon the individual case. A bridge is designed to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. The fixed bridge uses adjacent teeth to support natural looking teeth that span the open spaces. A bridge will provide a strong, beautiful, lifelike appearance while also restoring function. It is important to us that you are involved in the treatment planning; Dr. Eckart will explain the options available to you to replace missing teeth.