If you have a severely decayed, weak, or damaged tooth, it can be difficult to eat or speak comfortably, and it can also cause tooth sensitivity or pain. As long as the roots and interior of your damaged or broken tooth are healthy, Dr. Connor Wasylucha can restore it with a dental crown in Athens, TN.
Even when the pulp is infected, a root canal followed by a crown on the treated tooth is often a successful strategy for preventing extraction. A dental bridge at McMinn Dental Center is a cost-effective procedure to restore function after you lose a tooth.
A tooth crown in Athens, TN, is a custom-made restoration that completely covers the visible portion of a damaged tooth, reinforcing its strength while restoring its natural appearance. Whether dental crowns at McMinn Dental Center are crafted from porcelain or zirconia, they’re carefully designed to blend in comfortably while restoring normal function.
Porcelain crowns closely replicate the translucency and beauty of natural enamel, making them an excellent choice for highly visible teeth. Zirconia crowns, milled from solid zirconium oxide, offer exceptional durability, up to ten times stronger than natural enamel, making them ideal for teeth that withstand heavier biting forces.
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (pontic) to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. A customized dental bridge in Athens, TN, restores your smile’s appearance while helping maintain proper bite alignment and preventing surrounding teeth from shifting out of position.
By filling the gap left by missing teeth, bridges also improve chewing efficiency, speech, and overall oral function. Every bridge is precisely crafted to look natural, feel comfortable, and withstand everyday use.
Dental crowns are designed to restore and protect a damaged tooth that still has a healthy root. Dental bridges replace one or more missing teeth by filling the empty space with a false tooth supported by crowned teeth.
Both restorations improve your smile’s appearance, function, and long-term oral health, but each serves a different purpose. Dr. Connor will evaluate the condition of your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health to recommend the solution that best supports your smile for years to come.
After preparing the damaged tooth, digital impressions are taken to create a custom crown that fits comfortably and blends in naturally with your smile. Dr. Connor will fabricate a temporary composite resin crown for you to wear until the permanent crown is ready. Before permanently cementing the crown in place, Dr. Connor eliminates any high points (occlusal adjustment) that can interfere with your bite.
Your supporting teeth are carefully prepared, and precise impressions are taken to fabricate a custom bridge that fits perfectly. The supporting teeth need to be modified to ensure the one-piece bridge fits comfortably and supports the pontic in the center. Once completed, the bridge is securely cemented into place, restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
Both the cost of dental bridges and dental crowns depends on several factors, including the type of restoration, the materials used, and the complexity of your treatment. Your dental insurance should cover a portion of medically necessary crowns and bridges, although annual deductibles, maximum benefits, and copays can leave you with out-of-pocket expenses.
At McMinn Dental Center, we offer flexible financing options that make restoring your smile more affordable, while not allowing insurance limitations to dictate the care you receive. Our team will review your treatment plan, insurance benefits, and payment options so you can move forward with confidence!
With excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits, crowns and bridges commonly last 10 to 15 years or longer. Their longevity depends on proper care, bite forces, and everyday habits.
Brush twice daily, floss every day, and schedule routine professional cleanings and exams. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, whole almonds, or other objects that could damage your restoration.
A crown completely covers the entire visible portion of a tooth to restore strength and function, while a veneer covers only the front surface to improve cosmetic appearance. Veneers are typically recommended for healthy teeth with aesthetic concerns.
Composite bonding uses tooth-colored resin to repair minor chips, cracks, or discoloration, while crowns provide full-coverage protection for teeth with significant structural damage. Crowns are generally stronger and more durable, so they’re more appropriate for extensive restoration.
Implant-supported bridges don't rely on neighboring teeth for support, helping preserve healthy tooth structure while stimulating the jawbone. They also provide exceptional stability, durability, and chewing strength, while reducing the risk of gum recession.
Yes, Dr. Connor custom designs crowns and bridges to match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth for a seamless, natural-looking smile.
