Same-Day Crowns
Dental crowns and bridges are restorations that we use to strengthen and protect damaged or broken teeth.
Crowns are custom-made to cover a tooth completely, so they are often referred to as caps or tooth caps. A crown restores the comfortable chewing function of the tooth and provides strength and support. Dental bridges replace missing teeth to restore function and complete your smile.
We usually create crowns and bridges out of porcelain because of its natural appearance and durability.
Everyone wants a healthy, beautiful smile, and we can help you reach that goal with dental crowns and bridges. Updated techniques and treatments have made placing crowns and bridges easier than ever before.
When Are Dental Crowns and Bridges Used?
Dental crowns are very versatile, and we use them to correct many dental issues, including:
- Severely decayed teeth
- Teeth weakened by root canal treatment
- Fractured or broken teeth
- Broken or cracked fillings
- Large silver fillings
A dental bridge is designed to fill the space left by a missing tooth. The bridge is usually made as a single unit held in place by crowns attached to teeth on either side of the gap. A dental bridge not only improves your appearance but also prevents surrounding teeth from shifting out of place and moving into the gap left by a missing tooth.
What Does Placing a Crown or Bridge Involve?
We can typically place a dental crown or bridge in two or three visits. First, we prepare your natural tooth to receive the restoration and take an impression of your teeth. The impression 
accurately represents the position of your natural teeth so that your restoration fits perfectly.
Next, we send the impressions to a custom dental lab, where skilled technicians use them to create your permanent restoration, which usually takes about two weeks. Before you leave our office, we fit you with a temporary bridge or crown to wear while the lab fabricates your final crown or bridge.
Once we receive your final restoration, we schedule an appointment for you to return to our office to check the finished restoration for comfortable and make any necessary adjustments. The final step is to cement the custom restoration securely in place.
We will also provide instructions for caring for your crown or bridge properly. The restoration is strong and durable under normal conditions, but it requires special care to prevent damage and the possible need for replacement.
If you practice proper oral hygiene and schedule regular dental cleanings, your new restoration will last for many years.
Call to Schedule an Evaluation
Are you troubled by a damaged or missing tooth? Please call our dental office today to schedule an evaluation and learn more about your options!
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental crowns are designed to be very durable and to function much like your own teeth. You need to use common sense, however, and avoid biting down directly on foods like hard candy or nuts. A broken crown is not just costly to replace, but you may also damage underlying healthy tooth structure.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Brian Welle DDS
Dentist
Dr. Brian Welle commits himself to delivering quality dental care and a higher level of skill and training to meet your individual needs. His dedication to long-term oral health, comprehensive treatment, and exceptional care of his patients distinguish him from other dentists.
A native of the area, Dr. Welle grew up in Lake Elmo and attended Mahtomedi High School. His interest in dentistry led him to the University of Minnesota Morris, where he graduated with a BA in Biology. He continued his education by earning his Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree ...
Same-Day Crowns Technology
Cerec (Same Day Crowns)
This piece of dental technology is revolutionizing the way restorative and cosmetic dentistry operates. The Cerec allows for single-visit dentistry without uncomfortable impression trays or annoying temporary restorations. We are proud to have this as an available option for our patients.