About Crowns & Bridges
At Dr. Chelsea Mason Dental, we provide durable, natural-looking dental crowns and bridges to restore damaged, weakened, or missing teeth. Our Bay City, MI dental team uses advanced technology and high-quality materials to ensure your restorations look beautiful, feel comfortable, and last for years.
For complex cases involving gum health, bone support, or implant-supported crowns and bridges, our in-house periodontist Dr. Bill Mason provides specialized expertise to ensure optimal results.
What are Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made “caps” that cover and protect a damaged tooth. They restore strength, appearance, and function, making them one of the most popular restorative treatments.
Crowns may be recommended for:
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Large fillings that weaken a tooth
- Teeth after root canal therapy
- Severe wear, erosion, or discoloration
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Reinforcing implant posts
Our crowns are crafted to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless smile.
What are Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth using a natural-looking restoration anchored to the surrounding teeth or implants. Bridges restore your smile, bite, and ability to chew while preventing shifting or misalignment.
Benefits of a dental bridge include:
- Replacing missing teeth without surgery
- Improved appearance and confidence
- Better chewing and speaking ability
- Preventing teeth from drifting out of alignment
For patients needing more stability or long-term solutions, Dr. Bill Mason can place dental implants to support implant-anchored bridges.
The Crown & Bridge Treatment Process
1. Comprehensive Exam & Consultation
We assess the tooth, gums, and bite alignment. If gum health or bone support needs evaluation, Dr. Bill Mason provides expert periodontal assessment.
2. Tooth Preparation & Digital Scan
The tooth is shaped and prepared for the crown or bridge. We then take precise digital impressions for a perfect fit.
3. Temporary Restoration
You’ll receive a temporary crown or bridge while your permanent restoration is made.
4. Final Placement
Your custom crown or bridge is bonded securely, adjusted for comfort, and polished to match your smile naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do crowns and bridges last?
With proper care, most crowns and bridges last 10–15 years or more. Good hygiene and regular visits to Dr. Chelsea Mason help maximize longevity.
What materials do you use for crowns?
We offer porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia crowns—durable options that look natural and blend seamlessly with your teeth.
Is the crown or bridge procedure painful?
No. We use gentle numbing techniques to make the procedure comfortable. Mild soreness afterward is normal and temporary.
Can a bridge replace more than one missing tooth?
Yes. Bridges can replace one tooth or several teeth in a row. For additional support or long spans, Dr. Bill Mason may recommend implants.
How do I care for my crown or bridge?
Brush twice daily, floss around the restoration, and maintain regular dental checkups. Special flossing tools may be recommended for bridges to keep the area clean.
What if my crown feels loose or uncomfortable?
Call Dr. Chelsea Mason Dental right away. A loose crown can often be repaired or reattached quickly if addressed early.
Are implants better than bridges?
Implants offer a longer-lasting, more stable solution for missing teeth. Dr. Bill Mason, our periodontist, can assess whether you’re a good candidate for implant-supported crowns or bridges.
