Crowns and Bridges in Brick, NJ

What crowns and bridges involves

A crown is a custom-made cap that covers a tooth entirely, restoring its shape and strength. Crowns are used when a tooth is cracked, heavily worn, badly decayed, or left fragile after root canal treatment — situations where a filling alone would not hold up to normal chewing forces.

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a replacement tooth to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Closing a gap matters for more than appearance: neighboring teeth tend to drift into empty space over time, which can change your bite and make cleaning harder.

Who it's for

• Patients with a cracked, worn, or heavily decayed tooth
• Patients who have had root canal treatment on a back tooth
• Patients with one or more missing teeth and healthy teeth either side
• Patients replacing an older crown or bridge that has worn out

What to expect

1. 1

   Evaluation

   We examine the tooth and take digital images to assess how much healthy structure remains, then explain the options — including whether a filling would still be sufficient.

2. 2

   Preparation and Fitting

   The tooth is prepared and precise impressions are taken so your restoration matches your bite and the shade of the teeth around it.

3. 3

   Placement and Follow-Up

   The finished crown or bridge is fitted, checked against your bite, and adjusted for comfort. We will show you how to clean around it to help it last.

Common questions

How long do dental crowns last?

Crowns commonly last ten to fifteen years and frequently longer. Lifespan depends on the material, where the tooth sits in your mouth, your bite, and how well the margin where the crown meets the tooth is kept clean.

When do I need a crown instead of a filling?

Generally when too little healthy tooth structure remains for a filling to be supported safely — a large fracture, extensive decay, severe wear, or a back tooth after root canal treatment. Your dentist will show you what they are seeing and explain the reasoning.

What is the difference between a bridge and an implant?

A bridge anchors a replacement tooth to the teeth on either side of the gap, which means preparing those neighboring teeth. An implant replaces the tooth root itself and does not rely on adjacent teeth. Which suits you depends on the health of the surrounding teeth and bone — it is a conversation to have with your dentist.

How do I clean under a bridge?

A bridge cannot be flossed in the usual way because the replacement tooth is joined to its neighbors. A floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser is used to clean beneath it. We will demonstrate the technique when your bridge is fitted.

Does getting a crown hurt?

The tooth is numbed before treatment, so the procedure itself should not be painful. Some tenderness around the gum for a few days afterwards is common and settles on its own.